The importance of hugs cannot be underestimated. Hugs are a common way of showing physical affection towards others, with the simple act of wrapping your arms around another person evoking a feel-good factor and sense of comfort. Children typically look to their parents for care and affection, which is why cuddles and hugs are a great way of expressing love to your children. However, there are other reasons for hugging your children, such as those linked to their growth and development.

Boost Immunity

Hugs can stimulate the thymus gland, which is responsible for regulating the amount of white blood cells in our bodies that protect us from diseases and illnesses. The increased level of oxytocin, a hormone released during hugging, strengthens the immune system by decreasing inflammation and reducing the plasma levels of thyroid hormones. This can lead to faster healing of cuts and wounds. Additionally, the stress-reducing effect of hugs also protects the immune system from damage due to stress.

Improve Emotional Health

Emotional health is an important factor to consider in your child's development. Sitting down on a chair and hugging can be used as a technique to calm down toddlers who are excited or emotionally charged. Children don't typically understand how to manage strong emotions. A hug can calm down hyperactivity and stress and relieve anxiety while helping a child avoid emotional crashes. Hugs are powerful for helping children navigate their emotions and essential for building resilience and emotional development.

Make Your Child Happy

Hugs release oxytocin which reduces the impact of negative moods as they make children feel loved and happy. When you hug your child, it releases dopamine in their body, which is a feel-good hormone that can immediately elevate their mood. It enhances the level of positive energy in their lives, and a simple hug can make your children feel supported and reduce feelings of loneliness. While in their crib, your child can also gain comfort from hugging soft toys such as our adorable Baby Bunny or Baby Monkey.

Reduces Stress

A warm hug has the ability to release stress from your body as it is a method of offering comfort. At a young age, it is difficult for children to learn how to manage stress and their adrenaline and cortisol-fuelled body can affect their mental and physical health. Hugs are an excellent method for releasing oxytocin which relieves stress and acts as an immediate mood booster.

Improve Parent-Child Bonding

Hugging is also linked with strengthening relationships, parents hugging a child can enhance trust and help you develop a closer bond. Children also require physical and emotional contact as it helps develop an attachment to their parents, and hugs act as a comforting agent for both parents and children.

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