Our skin is our largest organ, and it can be very sensitive and responsive. The warmth of a hand held, the sensation of a soft cheek against ours, arms wrapped around shoulders in embrace... they can all go a long way toward expressing our affection for someone. But touch can actually give more than a momentary tingle or a second of solace; touch can comfort and heal.
The effect of a touch depends, of course, upon the situation. A touch from someone can be relaxing or reassuring, off-putting or gentle, soothing or stimulating. Touch can also bond us together in ways that transcend words or in situations in which words may not help. Take babies, for instance. Physical contact with infants can help caregivers to learn their child’s signals more effectively and can also help the infants feel more comfortable around their caregivers.
So, is touch simply a pleasant, soothing diversion? Is it mind over matter, or something more? No matter what the case, embrace the power of touch and invite it into your life:
- Go in for the rubdown. Even if you don't have aches and pains, book a visit to a licensed massage therapist. Hopefully you'll leave more relaxed.
- DIY massage. If you're shy about stretching out for a massage therapist, try self-massage techniques, like rubbing your hands together to warm them and then cupping them over your closed eyes. Feel the calm wash over you as your eyes and facial muscles relax.
- Conduct some hug research. When you greet a friend or family member, go in for an embrace rather than a handshake or nod. Sample a few different varieties of hug - arms around the waist, hands on the shoulder blades. Linger in the hug a little and really relish the sensation of closeness.
- Touch is an all-ages activity. Babies can benefit from gentle touch and massage, but the need and desire for human contact doesn't dwindle as we age. Remember older relatives and friends, especially those who live on their own or who have lost their husbands or wives.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Skin-to-skin-contact-and-the-benefit-of-human-touch
