A 20-second hug triggers a chemical release that naturally calms your nervous system.

The physiological impact of a long hug is primarily driven by the release of oxytocin from the pituitary gland. Research conducted at the University of North Carolina found that women who received more hugs from their partners had higher oxytocin levels and lower resting blood pressure. The study emphasizes that the duration of the contact matters, as shorter touches do not always trigger the same hormonal surge.When oxytocin enters the bloodstream, it acts as a natural buffer against the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response, and chronic high levels can lead to anxiety and weakened immunity. By suppressing cortisol, a 20-second hug effectively resets the autonomic nervous system and slows down the heart rate.This effect is also linked to the stimulation of Pacinian corpuscles, which are pressure receptors located under the skin. These receptors send signals directly to the vagus nerve, a major component of the parasympathetic nervous system. The vagus nerve is responsible for the 'rest and digest' state, which helps the body recover from stressful events and maintain emotional stability.Psychologists often refer to this as the '20-second rule' for bonding and stress management. Beyond immediate relaxation, regular physical affection has been shown to improve cardiovascular health over time. Studies published in the journal 'Psychological Science' suggest that this social support through touch can even protect people against the common cold by reducing stress-related susceptibility to infection.