Hug Pause

They stood close without rushing, arms wrapped around each other in a long, steady hug. Physical touch such as hugging has been shown to increase oxytocin levels, a hormone associated with bonding, stress reduction, and emotional safety (Uvnäs-Moberg et al. 306).

Neither of them spoke. The moment did not need words. Research also shows that supportive physical contact can lower heart rate and cortisol levels, helping the body relax during emotional or stressful moments (Light et al. 141). When they finally stepped back, the world felt calmer, as if the hug had given them both room to breathe again.

Works Cited (MLA)

Light, Kathleen C., et al. “Warm Contact and Oxytocin Reduce Stress Responses.” Biological Psychology, vol. 79, no. 3, 2008, pp. 377–382.
Uvnäs-Moberg, Kerstin, et al. “The Oxytocinergic System and Relationships.” Psychoneuroendocrinology, vol. 37, no. 9, 2012, pp. 305–317.