Touch relaxes and reinforces a sense of security

We need to be touched throughout our lives. It is the first sense we develop and the sense that will stay with us the longest.

- We know how important touch is to a child's development. Among other things, a parent's reassuring embrace strengthens a child's sense of security and builds a foundation for self-esteem. The power of touch also lasts throughout adult life: a hug from a loved one makes us feel secure and offers nurturing experiences, even if we didn't get enough touch as a child," says Minna Nevala, a psychologist and trained massage therapist at Terveystalo Rela.

The healing effect of touch is based on biology

The human being is a physical and psychological entity: touch has a powerful effect on our minds through the nervous system and hormones, relaxing and relieving pain, among other things.

- Massage, for example, is a good way to activate our parasympathetic or calming nervous system. This kind of soothing touch activates in particular the so-called vagus nerve, which signals the state of our body to the brain and triggers recovery. This is very tangible in the massage: the client's breathing becomes steadier and the body relaxes. Blood pressure drops for a moment. Many people stop talking at this point," laughs Minna Nevala.

In addition to massage, good ways to activate the parasympathetic nervous system include walking in the woods, consciously calming your breathing or meditating.

Touch is particularly helpful when you feel stressed or anxious

In addition to activating the parasympathetic nervous system, touch increases the secretion of pleasure hormones.

- Massage or other gentle and soothing touch releases pleasure hormones such as oxytocin, the so-called attachment hormone, dopamine, the pleasure hormone, and serotonin, the happiness hormone. At the same time it lowers cortisol or stress hormone levels.

The healing power of touch is particularly worth trying when you feel stressed or overstimulated.

- Massage, for example, is the perfect remedy for stress, as it not only calms the mind but also the body by relieving muscle tension. Muscle tension is one of the regulators of stress and when you can relieve it, the brain gets the message that you can let go of your worries. However, if the overstress is prolonged, it's a good idea to keep a low profile and contact mental wellbeing professionals," Minna adds.

Your own touch can also help - try these to calm your mind

• Stroke your own arm
• Give yourself a hug
• Petting a pet
• Take a moment for yourself and book an appointment with a masseuse, for example.

Terveystalo Rela massage therapists are available all over Finland and you can easily book an appointment online.