Hugs and heart health

"We all know a hug feels good, but what's the connection between hugs and heart health? Well, it appears that human contact through hugs lowers blood pressure and reduces stress, which cuts the risk of heart disease. Hugs have also been shown to improve overall mood, increase nerve activity, and a host of other beneficial effects. Positive physical touch has an immediate anti-stress effect, slowing breathing and heart rate. A University of North Carolina study showed that hugs increased levels of the hormone oxytocin and reduced blood pressure" - Smart Heart Living