Unlock the Power of Touch: How to Heal, Connect, and Thrive

Touch is an essential part of our lives both physically and spiritually. Many people know that a lack of touch in babies or young children can stunt their growth.

But did you know that this does not change as we grow older?

Touch, though often overlooked, is a major driver of growth, healing, and comfort in our lives. It may even be one of the most important senses we have.

According to Patrick Mclvor in his  TedTalk, touch isLike this content on Facebook actually the only sense we can't live without. It is the mother of all senses and is the first one that develops in embryos at about 6 to 8 weeks. Patrick also says that the need for touch is so hardwired in our nervous system that without it we usually end up feeling unhealthy and depressed. He believes that it is extremely difficult to thrive without touch, even as an adult.

Although it is great that researchers and scientists have discovered how touch plays a vital role in healing, what's even better is the fact that the Bible confirms it. 

In the Word of God, we find that almost every healing either occurred when Jesus touched people, or when they touched Him. His disciples eventually received the power to heal as well, and even they had laid hands on people in order to do it.

To this day, you will find ministers and prayer warriors laying hands on people when they pray, this is because Jesus has taught us that touch has a healing and powerful effect, especially when combined with faith.

The Spiritual Power Of Physical Touch

Below are 10 Bible verses where people experienced the healing power of touch were healed by a touch.

But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.”  -  Luke 8:46 (NIV)

He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. -  Mark 6:5 (NIV)

And behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. -  Matthew 8:2-3 (ESV)

And when Jesus entered Peter's house, he saw his mother-in-law lying sick with a fever. He touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she rose and began to serve him. -  Matthew 8:14-15 (ESV)

Now when the sun was setting, all those who had any who were sick with various diseases brought them to him, and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. -  Luke 4:40 (ESV)

Taking her by the hand he said to her, “Talitha cumi,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. -  Mark 5:41-42 (ESV)

Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, “See that no one knows about it.” -  Matthew 9:29-30 (ESV)

And all the crowd sought to touch him, for power came out from him and healed them all. -  Luke 6:19 (ESV)

They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him. -  Matthew 20:33-34 (ESV)

And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him. -  Luke 20:50-51 (ESV)

These are only a few of the many scriptures that prove the importance of human touch in the Bible.

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Why is Touch so Powerful?

The warmth of physical contact builds strong relationships in ways that words sometime fail. Specifically, warm warmth helps to calm the nervous system. This activates the vagus nerve of the body that has a deep connection with the compassionate response and touches trigger release of oxytocia, or oxytocine aka love hormone.

Touch lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increases the amount of oxytocin, a neurochemical that promotes trust and cooperation. A warm touch can make others feel valued and cared for and lessen the feelings of discomfort, and stress. Studies have also found that touch can actually reduce the signs and symptoms of illness. 

The warmth of physical contact builds strong relationships in ways that words sometime fail. I even encourage the exchange of five-minute chair massages among friends at work. Studies have shown that they can dramatically reduce job stress, while increasing productivity and alertness.  

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The Benefits of Touch

There is immense healing power in touch and physical contact. According to one review, the benefits of touch are likely the result of a combination of a mental reaction (that feeling of inclusion and support) and a physical reaction (the increase in oxytocin and pain-relieving substances, both of which downregulate the stress response).

Another study discovered that healing touch therapy and massage helped cancer patients relieve pain. According to scientific evidence, people can communicate a broader range of emotions through touch than through words. Below are some additional benefits of touch and being touched by someone.

Physical Health Benefits of Touch

The power of touch offers numerous advantages for our physical well-being. Here are some of the physical health benefits associated with touch:

1. Pain Relief: Touch has been shown to have pain-reducing effects. Gentle touch activates sensory receptors in the skin, triggering the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. Massage, in particular, has been found to alleviate various types of pain, including chronic pain, muscle soreness, and tension headaches.

2. Immune System Boost: Research suggests that touch can enhance the functioning of the immune system. Studies have shown that regular hugs and cuddling can increase the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in defending the body against illness and infection. The immune-boosting effects of touch can help improve overall health and reduce the risk of certain diseases.

3. Reduced Blood Pressure: Physical contact through touch has a remarkable ability to induce a state of calmness and contribute to lower blood pressure. When we engage in positive physical contact, such as gentle strokes or comforting embraces, our bodies respond and as a result our blood vessels relax, and our blood pressure tends to decrease. The soothing effect of physical contact on our body's cardiovascular system promotes a healthier cardiovascular profile, reducing the strain on our heart and supporting overall cardiovascular well-being.

4. Improved Sleep: The power of touch can contribute to better sleep quality. Gentle touch and massage have been found to promote relaxation and trigger the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with regulating sleep patterns. By reducing stress and inducing a state of relaxation, touch can help improve both the duration and quality of sleep.

5. Improve Success: In a 2010 study, researchers found that NBA players who had more physical interaction, like high fives and hugs, were linked to improved team and individual performance. These interactions boosted unity, motivation, and well-being while enhancing communication and trust. The study highlights the power of touch in promoting success in sports, business, and personal relationships.

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Mental Health Benefits of Touch

The power of touch extends beyond physical sensations and holds immense potential for benefiting our mental health as well. The act of touch can have profound effects on our well-being, contributing to improved mental and emotional states.

1. Increased Bonding and Connection: Touch strengthens our interpersonal bonds and fosters a sense of connection with others by increasing oxytocin, also called the love hormone. This helps you bond with people and get a better sense of trust and attachment.

   Physical touch, such as handshakes, hugs, or even a simple pat on the back, communicates warmth, empathy, and support. These gestures can deepen our relationships, enhance trust, and provide a sense of belonging, all of which are crucial for our mental health.

2. Stress Reduction: Touch has the remarkable ability to reduce stress levels. It lowers your body's stress hormone, called cortisol. This means it naturally reduces stress. When we experience positive touch, such as a comforting hug or a gentle hand on our shoulder, it triggers the release of oxytocin which promotes feelings of trust, relaxation, and overall well-being, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety.

3. Mood Enhancement: The power of touch can boost our mood and enhance emotional well-being. Through touch, the body releases endorphins, neurotransmitters that induce feelings of pleasure and happiness. A warm embrace, a reassuring pat on the back, or even holding hands with a loved one can provide a sense of connection, joy, and contentment.

4. Emotional Regulation: Touch can play a vital role in regulating our emotions. Research suggests that gentle touch stimulates the vagus nerve, which is responsible for activating the body's relaxation response. By soothing our nervous system, touch helps to reduce emotional reactivity and promotes a sense of calmness, allowing us to better manage stress and emotional challenges.

5. Self-Compassion and Self-Care: Engaging in self-touch, like self-massage or gentle stroking, can promote self-compassion and self-care. It allows us to connect with our own bodies, fostering a sense of acceptance and nurturing. Practicing self-touch can help alleviate feelings of loneliness, enhance self-esteem, and promote a positive relationship with oneself.

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Skin to Skin Contact Benefits for Babies

Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, offers a multitude of benefits for babies. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Regulation of Body Temperature: Newborns have limited ability to regulate their body temperature. Skin-to-skin contact helps to keep babies warm by utilizing the parent's body heat to provide a stable and comfortable temperature. This helps prevent hypothermia and promotes optimal thermoregulation.

  • Stabilization of Heart Rate and Breathing: Close physical contact with the parent's skin has been shown to stabilize a baby's heart rate and breathing patterns. This can lead to more regular respiratory rates and improved cardiovascular function in infants.

  • Enhanced Bonding and Attachment: Skin-to-skin contact fosters a strong bond and attachment between the parent and baby. The close physical connection, combined with eye contact and gentle touch, promotes feelings of security, trust, and emotional connection. This early bonding experience can have long-lasting positive effects on the parent-child relationship.

  • Regulation of Blood Sugar Levels: Skin-to-skin contact has been found to help stabilize a newborn's blood sugar levels. The close contact triggers the release of hormones that regulate glucose metabolism, which can be particularly beneficial for babies at risk of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia.

  • Improved Breastfeeding Success: Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth has been associated with improved breastfeeding outcomes. The close proximity and sensory stimulation help stimulate a baby's natural feeding reflexes, making it easier for them to latch and establish a successful breastfeeding relationship.

  • Reduced Stress and Crying: Skin-to-skin contact has a soothing effect on babies, reducing their stress levels and promoting calmness. It can help regulate cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, leading to less crying and improved overall emotional well-being.

  • Enhanced Immune Function: The transfer of beneficial bacteria from the parent's skin during skin-to-skin contact can support the development of the baby's immune system. It may help establish a diverse and healthy microbiome, providing protection against infections and allergies.

Skin to Skin Contact Benefits for Mothers

Skin-to-skin contact also offers the benefits for mothers, particularly in the context of childbirth and bonding with their newborns. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Bonding and Emotional Connection: Skin-to-skin contact enhances the emotional bond between a mother and her newborn. The release of hormones like oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," during this contact fosters feelings of closeness and affection.

2. Breastfeeding Initiation: Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth encourages early breastfeeding initiation. The proximity of the baby to the mother's breast stimulates the baby's rooting reflex, making it easier for the infant to latch onto the breast and establish a successful breastfeeding relationship.

3. Milk Production: Frequent skin-to-skin contact can help stimulate milk production. The warmth and presence of the baby on the mother's chest signal to the body to produce more milk, ensuring an adequate milk supply for the infant's nutritional needs.

4. Stress Reduction: Both mothers and infants experience reduced stress and anxiety when engaging in skin-to-skin contact. This can be particularly comforting after the physical and emotional stress of childbirth.

5. Pain Relief: Skin-to-skin contact can have an analgesic effect on both the mother and the baby. It can help reduce the perception of pain, making recovery from childbirth more comfortable.

6. Enhanced Maternal Confidence: Successful skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding can boost a mother's confidence in her ability to care for her newborn. This sense of competence can positively impact her overall well-being.

7. Emotional Support: Skin-to-skin contact provides emotional support to the mother, especially in the early postpartum period. It can reduce feelings of anxiety and postpartum depression by promoting feelings of security and closeness.

8. Promotes Rest and Relaxation: Engaging in skin-to-skin contact allows the mother to rest while still providing essential care for her baby. This rest is vital for postpartum recovery.

Ways to Increase Touch

If you're interested in exploring the benefits of physical contact, make a little time for conscious to increase self-touch and touch of others with below ideas.  

• Hold hands with your partner
• Hug your loved ones whenever possible
• Pat someone on the back when appropriate
• Give someone a firm handshake
• Go for a massage at a massage parlor
• Get a loved one to give you a massage
• Massage your own hands and feet
• Engage in stretching activities
• Pet your cat, dog, or any other friendly animal
• Get your nails done at a nail salon
• Cuddle with your spouse while sleeping
• Hold your children whenever possible
• Practice dry brushing (link to dry brushing post)

Final thoughts on The Power of Touch

Remember, touch is as good for the giver as it is for the receiver because a healthy loving touch truly has the power to heal. 

So as you go about your day, look for opportunities not only to be touched but to touch as well. Of course, there are boundaries, and discretion must be used as to who you touch, where you touch them, and when you touch them.

But as long as you do not cross any boundaries, increasing the amount of touch in your life will work wonders for your mental health. Also, always try to be present and feel the benefits of every touch as this will make it even more effective.

About the Author: 
 Corine Williams, Ph.D. is Clinical Psychologist that is currently seeing clients in the States of Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. You can find out more about her practice by visiting www.therapyforchristians.com/corinewilliams. In addition to providing individual therapy, Dr. Williams is also passionate about writing books and designing merchandise that educate, uplift, and normalize mental health subject in the Christian community. You can find out more about her at  www.booksbycorine.com or by visiting her amazon profile here:  https://www.amazon.com/Corine-Hyman/e/B00AWZ5FL2

Help us increase mental health awareness in the Christian community by donating through our paypal link here:  www.paypal.com/therapyforchristians, joining our mailing list by clicking below, or join our provider list here:  Provider listing

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