October 5, 2025
Dharma Message

After all the Obon prep and back-to-back Obon, I need a hug! We could all benefit from a daily dose of hugs. According to a 2023 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, research was conducted on more than 100 first-year college students. The results showed that the students who received more daily hugs from friends, roommates, and/or family members showed reduced morning-stress level the following morning. On days when these students received less hugs, the results of morning-stress level were higher. Science is telling us that hugs can have health benefits.

According to Conny Wade, a functional medical practitioner and health coach, she recorded that this physical touch can also improve cardiovascular health by increasing the heart rate variability (HRV). The HRV is a crucial measure of variation of time between heart beats. It reflects how well our body balances stress and relaxation. A high HRV indicates that the body is more adaptable to stress and transitions from activity to rest more easily. Wade went to say that “HRV should be as high as possible.”

Earlier research study in 2003 found that couples who held hands for 10 minutes followed by a 20 second hug by their partner had lower blood pressure and heart rate under stress. This study suggests that “affectionate touch” may provide a physiological protection, which partially indicates the heart health benefits associated with supportive relationships. A simple holding of hands and a hug can be a show of compassion, love, support and care. Regular “affectionate touch” (hugs) can also produce benefits way beyond stress reduction and a healthier heart. Those who receive consistent physical comfort, whether from pets, humans, or weighed blankets slept more soundly and woke up more refreshed than those with less contact.

According to Wade, receiving hugs on a regular basis can also help reduce inflammation. She said, “Inflammation is largely caused by chronic stress, and chronic inflammation has been connected to a variety of health issues, including depression and autoimmune diseases.” A 2020 study found that hugs was associated with lower pro-inflammatory molecules.

There is a “science” behind a hug or embrace. Sheldon Cohen, a researcher from Carnegie Mellon University found that “social support protects us from stress-induced illness boosting the immune system.” He found that when we give a hug to someone, there are events that unfold in our own bodies and mind. The focus on hugs or touch is not sentimental, rather a simple hug could serve as a “miniature vaccine against dis-ease.” Research with other studies showed that the right amount and how long we share a hug can prime our immune system. This hug can lead to a better heart health and even help in healing an emotional wound. Researchers tested varying types of hugs and durations. They found a one-second hug felt unsatisfying and provided minimal benefit. However, a five to 10 second hug proved to be optimal before longer contact be-came uncomfortable. In intimate relationships. 20 second hugs or embraces produced a much stronger measurable effect.

There is much more science investigation in the Epoch Times. We just have to remember that we are always embraced in Namu Amida Butsu. It is in Nembutsu that Buddha’s compassion and wisdom surrounds us. We offer and accept hugs in times of happy and sadness, however it is our Namu Amida Butsu that is lasting and beneficial in guiding and sharing direction and in finding peace and calm in our hectic world. Share a hug and Namu Amida Butsu. Gassho

.Rev. Seijo Naomi Nakano