Hugging at-a-glance Hugging increases levels of the “love hormone” oxytocin, which is beneficial for stress levels, heart health, and more A 20-second hug reduces the harmful physical effects of stress, including its impact on your blood pressure and heart rate A 10-second hug a day may fight infections, boost your immune system, ease depression and lessen fatigue The giver of a hug receives just as much benefit as the receiver, but some research suggests the healthiest hugs must come from someone you trust (as opposed to a stranger)
