How Helpful Are Hugs , in Relieving Stress?.<br />CNN reports a recent study has <br />uncovered how helpful a hug can be <br />during a difficult or stressful time.<br />According to researchers, a quality hug can make a drastic difference for women.<br />For men, on the other hand, hugs <br />maybe aren't doing as much.<br />The study, published on May 18 in the journal <br />'PLOS One,' analyzed 76 people's responses to <br />stress following a hug from a romantic partner.<br />When women in the study received a hug, researchers say they showed decreased amounts of cortisol, a stress hormone.<br />Men in the study did not show <br />any changes in cortisol levels. .<br />Affection from the one you love is known to release neurotransmitters called oxytocin.<br />Oxytocin is often referred <br />to as the "love hormone.".<br />Still, experts say affection between <br />humans is dynamic and often differ <br />vastly from person to person.<br />It’s important to remember that there is individual variation in <br />how people respond to hugging. , Kory Floyd, professor of communication at The University of Arizona, via CNN.<br />For some, a hug is a welcome expression of warmth that can alleviate stress, reduce pain, <br />and promote intimacy. , Kory Floyd, professor of communication at The University of Arizona, via CNN.<br />For others, hugging feels invasive or unnatural and can even elevate stress, rather than alleviate it. , Kory Floyd, professor of communication at The University of Arizona, via CNN
