Caresses and Science: The Proven Benefits

New research indicates that touch significantly influences how the brain forms our mental body image, supporting the idea that interoceptive signals, such as affectionate contact, are crucial for understanding the body and developing a coherent sense of self. A decrease in perceiving these signals is associated with various issues, including body image disorders and phantom pain, while studies consistently link caresses to substantial health and well-being benefits.

Touch Enhances a Positive Sense of Self

Affectionate touching, common between parents and children or romantic partners, can bolster the brain’s capacity to build a strong sense of body ownership and maintain a healthy identity. A study published in Frontiers Psychology, led by Dr. Aikaterini Fotopoulou of the Association of Neuropsychoanalysis and Mark Jenkinson of the University of Hertfordshire, explored this connection.

The research involved 52 healthy adults and utilized an adapted “rubber hand illusion” technique. Participants experienced their hidden real hand being stimulated when a visible rubber hand was caressed, demonstrating the brain’s flexible body perception. Earlier studies established that affective touch—slow skin stimulation between 1 and 10 cm per second—correlates with pleasurable emotions and alleviates anxiety symptoms. Fotopoulou’s team investigated whether this specific type of touch impacted the brain’s understanding of the body.

Their experiment incorporated various types of caresses, including slow, fast (synchronized and unsynchronized), and affective touches, within the illusion setup. Post-experiment questionnaires measured participants’ subjective experiences. This work supports that perceiving interoceptive signals, like affective touch, aids in constructing the body’s mental image, as it contributes to the brain’s monitoring of homeostasis.

Touch for Pain Relief, Depression, and Immune Support

Beyond fostering positive feelings, numerous studies highlight the efficacy of touch in managing pain, strengthening the immune system, and combating depression. Research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that caresses promote the release of oxytocin, a hormone known for inducing relaxation and feelings of contentment and happiness. The study’s authors also observed that individuals who are single and lack romantic relationships often report higher rates of depression and sadness.

Additional Benefits of Affectionate Touch

Scientific evidence continues to demonstrate how physical touch contributes positively to overall well-being:

Maternal Touch Mitigates Prenatal Stress Effects

Maternal emotions during pregnancy can influence fetal development. Stress-induced hormones can cross the placenta, potentially leading to developmental changes. A study published in PLOSone indicates that maternal caresses post-birth reduce stress and negative emotions in newborns, fostering their physiological adaptability.

Improves Lung Function

Research from the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami reveals that affectionate touching can enhance lung function, boost immune response, and improve cardiovascular health. Human touch is a vital component of well-being across all age groups.

Contributes to Blood Pressure Control

A study from the University of North Carolina suggests that individuals who regularly hug and caress their partners tend to have lower blood pressure and a reduced incidence of heart-related conditions.