How important is hugging? And how often should we hug our kids? As parents, we want our children to be healthy and happy. We do everything we can to provide them with the best life possible. But sometimes we forget one of the simplest things – hugging them!

Hugging provides a multitude of benefits for both children and parents alike. So next time you tuck your little one into bed, give them a big hug – it will make both of you feel better!

Here’s what we know about the benefits of hugging:

Hugging is good for your health.

Hugs have the power to affect your body–not just the way it feels but how it actually operates. Studies have shown how hugs result in reductions in blood pressure levels and heart rate.

Scientists even claim that touch is a truly effective way to support another person as it can reduce stress–not just on the person being comforted, but even on the person providing comfort through touch.

So, just imagine how frequent hugs can benefit your child’s health (and your own)! Even simply reducing your stress levels is enough to make you and your little one less vulnerable to illnesses and keep you healthier every day.

Hugs literally make you happier.

Oxytocin has become a buzzword in popular culture. It even has a cute little nickname, the “cuddle hormone.” But why do we really call it that?

The body produces higher levels of oxytocin when we touch, sit close or hug another person. It is a hormone that has long been associated with happiness and less stress. The more oxytocin we release, the more we glow from within!

Another interesting fact is how scientists have found that hugging and touching can reduce anxiety in people with low self-esteem. Just look back at how an affectionate hug or holding someone’s hand through your lowest moments have helped you. It makes sense, right?

So, just how often should we hug?

Now that we know just how amazing hugs truly are, how often should you get and give hugs? A known saying in family wellness groups goes: “We need four hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.”

That might feel like an exaggeration, but science has actually shown that the more hugs you get, the better. The more we enjoy another person’s affection, the better our body and mind will feel.

Sadly, it seems like a lot of families–and humans in general–have been touch-deprived throughout their lives. But here at Loomini, we believe in the benefits of hugging and encourage all of you to hug daily!

Another good news is that you don’t have to spend every minute of every hour getting all cuddly: Even brief (but regular) hugs from the people you love the most can already have wonderful effects on the brain and body.

The science is clear: Hugs are amazing - and it’s time for a cuddle-sesh with the kiddos!