Hugging for 20 seconds a day may reduce your stress

Hugging helps you shift from ‘full action mode’ to a calmer state, say the book’s authors
Hugging helps you shift from ‘full action mode’ to a calmer state, say the book’s authors
PETER MULLER

Hugging someone you love for 20 seconds a day is the key to alleviating stress and beating burnout, according to a new book.

A lingering embrace releases the bonding hormone oxytocin, which can lower your blood pressure, slow your heart rate and improve your mood.

American identical twins Emily and Amelia Nagoski, co-authors of Burnout: The Secret to Solving the Stress Cycle, say hugging unlocks your “stress cycle”, helping you shift from “full action mode” to a calmer state.

Writing in today’s Style magazine, the sisters also advise indulging in at least one kiss lasting six seconds every day. “Like a long, mindful kiss, a 20-second hug can teach your body that you are safe; you have escaped the lion and arrived home, safe