Kissing for at least 6 seconds or hugging for 20 seconds both trigger the release of oxytocin, which helps couples bond and feel trusting of each other. Plus, experts say, changing routines and creating intimacy rituals can strengthen relationships.
So, as we approach the six-second mark of a hug, the human brain begins to release enhanced levels of serotonin and oxytocin, which promotes bonding and boosts your mood. This physical connection literally forces the body to feel better; the longer the hug, the higher the level of chemical release.
The flow of oxytocin after a six second hug affects you in the following ways: it lowers blood pressure and helps with anxiety; it lowers cortisol (the stress hormone); and it increases your social connections and sense of belonging.
A 'seven second hug' takes you to level two – it's a sincere, genuine transaction of love and care. Level three is the 'run up hug' – a euphoric, outburst of affection.
When people hug for 20 seconds or more, the feel-good hormone oxytocin is released which creates a stronger bond and connection between the huggers. Oxytocin has been shown to boost the immune system and reduce stress.
Men have been shown to be particularly sensitive to physical contact, so touch likely boosted their oxytocin levels considerably, Melton says. “Justifying small ways to make any activity one where we're touching our partner, whether that's touching of the arm or around the shoulder, [could be useful],” Melton says.
Its best to begin with light small touches on the arms and hands, to make the oxytocin effect kick in. Take her hand while taking to her (never ask for it, just take it), play thumb wrestling or pretend to read her palm or just play footsies under the table.
Hugging for at least 10 seconds at a time releases oxytocin, a hormone which helps your body fight infections, boost your immune system and eases depression. Until recently, oxytocin was thought to only be a hormone released during childbirth and through breast feeding.
Psychologists in London claim they have cracked the code on the ideal embrace, saying hugs should last between five and 10 seconds. According to researchers at Goldsmiths university, longer hugs were found to provide an immediate pleasure boost compared to shorter ones (lasting just one second).
A long hug, typically one that lasts for 5 seconds or longer, is a sign that he either has feelings for you or he really loves hugging you. When a guy hugs you for more than 5 seconds, it is an indication that he is looking for comfort and you're the one he trusts the most to provide it to him.
A close, full-body embrace, with eye contact--that's what an Intimate Hug is. The eye contact takes this type of hug to a new level, because it is clearly about more than just physical touch. If you are experiencing hugs like these, it means you really have something special going on.
“I challenge you to hug them — and you have my permission to tackle them to the ground if they resist — and don't let go for eight seconds, eight times a day.”
What does a half hug mean? Half hugs are not intimate. They are shared between friends and acquaintances. Most introverted and socially awkward people give half or side hugs.
In much the same way that hugging reduces stress, it also decreases pain. Even a 20-second hug releases enough oxytocin to make you feel better.
Hugging someone you love for 20 seconds a day is the key to alleviating stress and beating burnout, according to a new book. A lingering embrace releases the bonding hormone oxytocin, which can lower your blood pressure, slow your heart rate and improve your mood.
Flirty Hug
If you are at the onset of a relationship, this is the perfect way to express yourself without being bold. However, in an existing relationship, a flirty hug (which involves a little delicate touching) is a great way to keep the romance alive. If you do this often, you two are on the right track.
Hugging causes the brain to release oxytocin, the hormone that increases human bonding. Here's why it's so important. The oxytocin released by hugging increases trust, loyalty and feelings of closeness, which is why physical contact in relationships is so important.
A romantic hug includes a lot of closeness and touching. This hug would include, not a pat on the back, but a rub. This may also be a lower touch than would be appropriate for a platonic friendship. Also, during a romantic hug, your faces usually press together.
Just the simple act of touch seems boost oxytocin release. Giving someone a massage, cuddling, making love, or giving someone a hug leads to higher levels of this hormone and a greater sense of well-being. Oxytocin is just one of the four feel-good hormones.
And if things are going well, dopamine gets replaced by two hormones: oxytocin and vasopressin. They create the desire to bond with your partner and nurture them. Attachment allows couples to stay together long enough to raise children, develop a deep, meaningful bond, grow old together, and feel contentment.