Book 2, Question 34
Why Do Hugs Help?
Hugs help because pressure on special touch nerves in the skin, called C-tactile fibers, sends calming signals to the feeling parts of the brain.
Have you ever felt better after a good hug? Safe touch can calm the body. A hug can tell your body that you are safe. Only hugs you want are good hugs.
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Quick answers
Why do hugs feel good?
Touch releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins.
Sources: Berkeley, Cleveland Clinic
From the book
Page from A Million Whys Book 2
More fun facts
- A hug presses on special touch nerves in your skin called C-tactile fibers.
- Those nerves send signals through your spinal cord to the parts of the brain that handle feelings.
- Touch releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins, so hugs feel rewarding.
- Friendly touch helps people bond and keeps relationships strong.
- In one small study of 76 people, hugging helped the women handle stress better.
- Not everyone likes hugs. A gentle hand squeeze or a pat on the back can help just as much.
Sources: Berkeley, Cleveland Clinic
Questions kids ask
What if I do not like hugs?
That is OK. Not everyone enjoys hugs. A hand squeeze or a pat on the back can be just as kind.