Let’s start with the truth: hugs are underrated.
In the fast-paced world we live in—where to-do lists grow faster than we can tick them off and most conversations happen through screens—it’s easy to forget how much our bodies crave something so simple, so natural: human touch.
Whether it’s the warm embrace of a loved one, a reassuring squeeze from a friend, or even just leaning into someone during a hard moment, touch speaks a language deeper than words. And believe it or not, there’s actual science behind the magic of a good hug.
So… why do hugs feel so good?
It all comes down to biology. When we hug or experience any kind of safe, gentle physical touch, our brain releases oxytocin—often referred to as the “love hormone.” This powerful chemical lowers stress, reduces blood pressure, and creates a sense of trust and connection. It’s also the same hormone that helps mothers bond with their babies. Wild, right?
But that’s not all. Hugs also reduce cortisol (our stress hormone) and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm us down. In short: hugs chill us out, in the best way possible.
Touch Isn’t a Luxury—It’s a Need
We often think of hugs and cuddles as something sweet but optional—like whipped cream on a hot cocoa. But research shows that regular physical contact is vital for mental health, especially when we’re going through tough times.
Children who don’t receive enough nurturing touch in early life can develop emotional difficulties, and even as adults, lack of affectionate contact can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. In fact, studies on “touch starvation” (yes, that’s a real term) show that people deprived of physical contact are more likely to feel stressed, disconnected, and even physically unwell.
And let’s be honest: the last few years didn’t help. With social distancing, remote work, and long-distance everything, many of us found ourselves missing that basic form of connection more than we ever imagined.
But what if we live alone… or don’t get hugged often?
Great question. Not everyone has access to daily hugs or cozy snuggles on demand. But that doesn’t mean we can’t still care for ourselves in deeply comforting ways.
Enter: the power of intentional touch.
This is where self-care routines with comforting physical sensations come in. Think warm baths, soft blankets, weighted pillows—and yes, tools that mimic the calming pressure of a hug.
One of our favorite self-care discoveries? Compression massage.
Compression Massage: Like a Hug for Your Legs
If you’ve never tried one, a compression leg massager feels like your calves and feet are getting the world’s coziest, most rhythmic hug. It gently squeezes and releases in cycles, boosting circulation, relaxing muscles, and creating that same parasympathetic response you get from a human embrace.
The Lunix LX10 Full Leg Massager, for example, was designed with this concept in mind. It applies gentle, adjustable pressure that mimics the feeling of a long, reassuring hug—from your feet up to your thighs. After a long day of standing, parenting, commuting, or simply existing, that kind of comfort is no small thing.
Many of our customers say it’s become a non-negotiable part of their nighttime routine. It’s a chance to unwind, breathe deeper, and feel grounded again.
More Ways to Bring Comfort into Your Life
Beyond compression massage, here are a few simple (but powerful) ways to invite more healthy touch and calm into your day:
- Cuddle your pet. They don’t judge. They just snuggle.
- Use a weighted blanket while watching TV or reading.
- Give yourself a hand massage with lotion and intention—it’s more soothing than you’d expect.
- Place a warm compress or pillow on your lower back and lie down for 10 minutes. Just breathe.
And of course, don’t be afraid to ask for a hug when you need one. There’s no shame in seeking comfort. There’s strength in knowing what fills your cup.
In Conclusion: Hug More. Stress Less.
Touch is not just affection—it’s medicine.
And while we can’t bottle up the feeling of a hug, we can build habits and moments that bring our bodies and minds back into balance. Whether it’s a warm embrace from someone you love or a comforting squeeze from a compression massager, don’t underestimate the power of being held—even if just for a few minutes a day.
So go ahead: hug your people. Hug your dog. Hug yourself, even.
Because we all deserve to feel held.
