When health complications strike a visit to the GP is sensible.

 

However, doctors have revealed a potential cure that doesn’t require a professional; just someone to get close to.

 

Cuddling is an intimate way to embrace another; whether it be a partner, friend or colleague.

 

It’s a winding of limbs considered both innocent and sexual, subject to circumstance.

 

Research implies that cuddling has miraculous qualities, unknown to the deliverer or recipient; a medically approved healing touch with the capability to repair wounds, due to the release of the hormone oxytocin.

On March 30th the nation celebrates National Doctor’s Day, an observance of GP’s dedication to improving community health.

 

But this year, patients have the opportunity to give doctors a day off simply by embracing a loved one. Dr Will Cole, leading functional medicine practitioner, explains: “oxytocin is a hormone released from your brain during cuddling, known as the ‘love’ hormone as it spikes during orgasm.”

 

“Studies prove that cuddling helps to heal physical ailments by lowering inflammation and boosting immunity. One study showed that oxytocin was able to lower chronic pain in people with cancer, IBS and back pain.”

Dr Cole reveals that an embrace can heal both mental and physical wounds: “a hug actually has the ability to alleviate anxiety, even in cases of severe disorders. For example, have you ever wondered what was behind that feeling of butterflies in your stomach? Look no further than oxytocin.”

It’s almost unbelievable that invisible health concerns could be cured by skin-on-skin contact.

 

Dr Cole says this approach could be beneficial for those who enjoy physical touch.

 

However, treating mental health issues with a cuddle could be damaging for some sufferers.

Consulting psychologist, Jacqui Wilmshurst, has over two decades of practice in human relationships.

 

Unlike Dr Cole, she’s not confident in the practice of cuddling to cure mental health concerns because “not all people like hugging or being hugged”.
Jacqui explains: “if someone is hugged without full consent or without the relationship being close enough, it can cause a release of stress hormones. In other words, hugging isn't a universal panacea for helping people feel better.”

 

Dr Cole insists additional research into the benefits of cuddling continues to prove the health improvements of an embrace. With this in mind, perhaps the classic old wives tale needs updating: maybe a hug a day will keep the doctor away?