What a forbidden hug from a nurse during lockdown meant to one a cancer patient

Shortly after the COVID-19 lockdown began, Ashleigh Bell Pedersen was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. She came to desperately miss physical touch during treatment.

The top 3

  1. Touch Reduces Stress Hormones: Studies show that physical touch, such as hugging or massage, lowers cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone, and can reduce anxiety.
  2. Touch Boosts Immune System: Research indicates that positive physical contact can improve immune function by reducing chronic inflammation and increasing natural killer cells, making individuals more resilient to illness.
  3. Touch Enhances Emotional Well-being: Human touch fosters feelings of connection, security, and trust by releasing oxytocin and serotonin, which are vital for combating loneliness, depression, and improving mood.

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