With the reality of how we are currently living through a global health pandemic, physical distancing and self isolating from the people we love, we have become acutely aware of the powerful and basic need - our sense of touch. We know that babies won’t survive without touch. People don’t thrive without touch. Touch stimulates the vagus nerve - one of 12 cranial nerves responsible for slowing down the central nervous system, allowing your body to transition into a resting state which helps lower anxiety and the stress hormone cortisol. Touch increases white blood cells which play a critical role in defending the body from disease - strengthening and supporting our immune system. Serotonin increases which acts as a natural anti-depressant and analgesic. Touch also increases oxytocin - this is our love, or bonding hormone - it makes you feel attached and safe. All of these physiological responses in the body happen with massage therapy as they do when you hug someone or hold someone’s hand. It’s healing physically and psychologically, it helps one feel socially and physically connected, and it promotes the feel of happiness. How important this is right in this very moment! As a manual therapy healthcare practitioner, I can promote health and well-being, and also express empathy, care and kindness without speaking a word. This is the magical power of touch.
