A hug a day will keep the doctor away!

A universal gesture to show care, affection and comfort, hugs are a great way to spread positivity and show warmth when words fall short. This physical act of embracing someone induces the brain to release oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine that can help you deal better with stress.

There are many other benefits of this simple gesture to show love and fondness.

Hugs can protect you against illnesses
The stress-reducing effects of hugging might also work to keep you healthier. A study of over 400 adults published in the Sage Journals found that hugging and display of a strong support system from loved ones can lower the risk of a person falling ill.

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Hugs may boost your heart health
Hugging can be good for your heart health. In a study by the National Institutes of Health in the USA, scientists split a group of about 200 adults into two groups: One group had romantic partners to hug and hold for 10 minutes, and the other group had partners who displayed no physical affection. People in the first group showed greater reductions in blood pressure levels and heart rate than the second group.

Hugs may help reduce your pain
Holding someone tight and close at their worst can help them deal with their pain as research suggests that some forms of touch may be capable of reducing sorrow. In a study by the National Center of Biotechnology Information (U.S.), patients with fibromyalgia had six therapeutic touch treatments. Each treatment involved light touching on the skin. The participants reported an increase in quality of life and reduction in pain levels.

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