What Lies in a Touch
I found this article in the New York Times. I think there is a lot about the workings of human physiology that science has yet to discover and understand and this article begins to explore some of those areas. In our world, we don't give too much thought to a touch between friends, family, acquaintances, and loved ones. Researchers, however, are beginning to show the depth of information exchanged in a touch and the effects it can have on the physiology of the body. Not only does a touch result in "almost immediate changes in how people think and behave," but actually effects the the biochemistry of the body. What I believe is the most significant deduction from the research is mentioned only briefly at the end of the article where it is stated that "A warm touch seems to set off the release of oxytocin, a hormone that helps create a sensation of trust, and to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol."
First, this alone is a significant finding. Cortisol is a stress hormone that, while serving a vital function when the body needs to be in fight or flight mode, in excess wreaks havoc on our overall health and well being. Second, I think this is the tip of the ice burg and many chiropractors have been aware of this for quite some time now. A specific touch at the right time and place can lead to significant changes in the physiology, balancing the nervous system and moving the body from a state of stress to a state of rest. The healing effects one experiences from this action can be very dramatic. It will be exciting to see more research in this area unfold, revealing all of the healing attributes that are hidden in the human touch.
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