The Power Of Touch!

The power of touch is therapeutic.

Almost everyone has experienced moments in life when grief is so intense that words seem inadequate, or the suffering you witness almost makes you avert your gaze.

It can be natural to physically and emotionally withdraw from painful situations, such as when a friend’s partner dies or your relative faces a terminal illness. You want to guard your own emotions, or you fear being perceived as inappropriate or invading another’s personal space.

While these concerns can be valid, such an approach risks loneliness and isolation for all those involved. Multiple studies have shown that feeling isolated from others has a number of negative health effects, including accelerated aging, depression, cognitive decline and increased risk of heart disease.

The role of companionship under difficult circumstances need not be as complicated as you might think. In fact, it can be as simple as holding a hand. Connecting through touch or just being presenting a quiet, mindful way can bridge the divide between individual sorrows and provide immeasurable comfort.

Evolution of touch

What is it about human touch that in many cases allows for a deeper connection than words? For starters, touch, unlike language, is a form of communication that comes from the gut.