When our bodies feel stress the fight or flight response kicks in. Holding the hand of your spouse, or touching in a non-sexual way, reduces your stress level.
Studies show touch results in physical benefits such as slowing the heart rate, dropping blood pressure and speeding recovery from illness. Dr. James Lynch, professor at Baltimore’s University of Maryland School of Medicine conducts extensive studies on touch and its impact upon the body. “Physical contact has very dramatic effects upon psychological health,” he says. “It lowers blood pressure. It relaxes you.”
UVA Professor James Coan and his colleagues found surprising the relaxation response demonstrated by what they called “super couples,” those with exceptionally high-quality relationships. “Hand-holding had a particularly profound effect on soothing their brains,” Coan said. “It’s roughly comparable to taking a drug.”
The soothing power of touch is biblical.
Matthew 17:6-8
6 When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. 7 But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” 8 When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.
Look for opportunities to increase touch and soothe each other daily. Kiss your spouse when leaving for work, hug regularly, and hold hands while walking together or when you’re watching television.
Kevin Decker. The Marriage Coach
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