Newly born babies are placed upon their mothers’ bare chest, creating a skin-to-skin contact. It’s believed that this type of contact is critical for bonding and connection. Babies who bond with their parents via skin-to-skin contact are calmer, sleep better, and cry less.
The need for touch doesn’t end just because we’ve grown up. Think about it: your skin is your largest organ! It’s extremely sensitive and responsive. Holding hands, hugging, or other ways of touching are how we show affection. But these acts go well beyond pleasure; touching one another can bring healing and comfort.
And our world needs more healing.
Today, you’re invited to try one of these methods:
DIY Massage: If you’re shy about visiting a massage therapist or short on time, you can give yourself a massage. Simply rub your hands together to warm them up and gently massage your face by using circular motions on your temples, jawbone joint, and on your shoulders. According to Psychology Today, “Evidence supports the idea that it’s effective: Self-massage has been shown to slow the heart rate and lower the level of the stress hormone cortisol.
Tickle Massage: Touch is great for all ages and especially fun cross-generationally. Not only will tickles result in touch, there’s sure to be lots of laughter as well. It’s a win-win situation!
Foot massage: Grab a tennis ball and place it on the ground. With bare feet, rub your right foot slowly over the ball, making sure to touch all areas. Try to pick up the ball between your toes. When you’re finished with the right foot, repeat with your left. It’s amazing how grounded and awake you’ll feel after this simple exercise.
Schedule a massage: There’s nothing quite as relaxing as a great massage! Cortisol levels decrease, blood flow increases, and joints loosen. We happen to think Miracles Massage is perfect (okay, so we may be biased). Schedule your appointment today.
Take a deep breath in. Let it out slowly. We hope to see you soon!