10 SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | JUNE 2022
By Clare Mendez, Resident
Thank goodness we seem to have risen above the pandemic to
more social times. It was a cold and deflated existence not to shake
hands, high-five, or hug a friend. We couldn't even stop over for a
visit in case a germ was airborne. So many of us missed out on the
benefits of a touch or a hug.
Touch is a very powerful stress reducer. When we experience a
pat on the back, a touch on the arm, or an all-out-hug, we experience
a feeling of happiness, joy and perhaps love. Even when words
aren't spoken the use of a touch can strengthen a relationship. For
example, let's say you need to apologize to a friend for a wrong
doing. Saying "I'm sorry" is fine and dandy, but what if you held
their hand between yours when you said it? Now "I'm sorry" has
more credence. Sometimes a simple touch can help us demonstrate
positive reinforcement.
There are times when a touch of the hand is not enough. You
can judge for yourself when you should go in for the hug. Perhaps
it's after a long absence or to console a friend. If the environment
allows and the situation warrants it, by all means enjoy a warm and
meaningful hug.
Children are cuddlers by nature. They like to sit close and
snuggle while reading a story or sharing your day. They will often
hug hello and good-bye. As we age, we are prone to less and less
physical connection to others. What a shame. Studies indicate that a
therapeutic touch can ease pain and aide in a quicker recovery from
an illness. Many adults who live alone may become socially isolated
due to depression and therefore could really use a visit or a hug. To
quote Dr. Brahmanand Nayak, "Ample research supports the fact that
hugging is the best medicine for healing sickness, disease, loneliness,
depression, anxiety, and stress."
You may still be leery of getting too close to others after these
past few years of backing away, but hopefully, in time you'll feel as
comfortable as you once were among others. It will behoove (I love
that word) you and your acquaintances to give and receive warm
hugs.
Hugs Anyone?
