Provide close, deep, affectionate physical contact to infants and children, as it is a fundamental biological necessity for optimal brain development, social brain functioning, and resilience to stress later in life. A lack of such nurturing touch in early years can lead to severe behavioral and psychological problems and cognitive deficits.
Actively increase regular, safe, and non-threatening physical touch with friends, family, and partners, giving it more priority in your life. This counteracts societal touch aversion and fulfills a primal human need for deep, meaningful connection, which is crucial for overall health and well-being.
When providing gentle, affectionate touch, aim for a stroking speed of approximately three to five centimeters per second. This specific velocity optimally stimulates the C-tactile afferent nerve fibers, making the touch most pleasant and effective for emotional regulation.
If you or someone you know experienced a lack of touch in early life, understand that the brain’s plasticity allows for the re-priming of the touch system at any stage through loving and caring interactions. This can help stabilize and normalize behavior, even if there are long-term consequences.
Have the confidence to use your instinctive recognition that appropriate touch is valuable and meaningful, and don’t be scared by the societal ’touch police’ mentality. Collectively demonstrate that touch should be embedded in normal human behavior, not seen as inherently risky or contentious.
Reduce your consumption of 24-hour news cycles, as constant exposure to magnified problems can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Watching less news can contribute to a calmer and happier state.
If you experience low energy, sign up for a free six-part video series at drchatterjee.com/energy. This resource offers simple tips and strategies to help you increase your energy levels and get more out of life.
If it’s not always possible to get all your nutrition from food, consider taking a nutrient-dense whole food supplement like Athletic Greens each morning. This can act as an insurance policy to help meet your nutritional needs; a special offer is available at athleticgreens.com/livemore.
For a deeper understanding and practical strategies to increase human touch in your life, read “The Stress Solution” by Dr. Rangan Chatterjee. The book simplifies research and offers take-home strategies, including a chapter on touch informed by Professor McGlone’s work.
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