While the technology has brought us a lot of great benefits, allowing us to interact with people all over the world and to access information at the click of a button, it also has dehumanized our daily lives.
Urbanization, long working hours, increased crime levels and fear of harassment have plunged us into isolation and made us suspicious of strangers and guard our personal space.
People have become somewhat disconnected from communities and, as a result, many of us have become touch-deprived.
There are 5 basic senses, and touch is, unfortunately, the most neglected one, however, one of the most essential.
The healing power of touch has been demonstrated by numerous studies: ranging from babies whose development is stunted when they are deprived of human contact to the elderly who enjoy better health when touched regularly, and patients who recover from their illnesses more quickly when they are touched often.
Touch, so as the lack of it, affects everyone.
It is a well-known fact, that healthy touch slows our heart rates and reduces anxiety.
What is more, it makes us feel safe and nurtured.
Accordingly, lack of touch can make us feel very lonely, depressed, ill and even aggressive.
‘Skin hunger’
This term is used to describe touch deprivation – your skin literally hungers for the touch of another human being, to feel connected, accepted and whole.
Yes, there is such a thing as inappropriate touching and we should protect ourselves and our children from that, but when last have you given your friend, parent or child a good, generous hug?
When last have you touched someone, who is in pain, to show your compassion and care?
The massage has become so popular in our modern world for a reason – it is not only a wonderful way to relax and ease muscle tension, it is also a safe way to enjoy the warmth and love of another person’s touch.
Such a simple action gives so much positive energy to your body, that you feel on top of the world.
Could you or someone close to you be touch-deprived? Reach out to someone today and share the healing power of touch.
