Lack of human touch is often depressing!
As a natural, reasonably well adjusted introvert, I’m content to be in my own company, spending days writing, reading, and communing with my computer. But yesterday I realized that too long a period of work without family, friends, or business buddies probably accounted for my low mood!
Too much peaceful solitude actually drains me
of the emotional nourishment of human touch!
Who knew?
Wow! I know I’ve read that many times before, but never applied it to myself. But on 4 of the last 6 days, I’ve spent wonderful hours with my business friend Andy and his great ideas, Dorothy who’s probably been part of my other lives too, Jane and Sue here for our glorious patio supper, and yesterday with my beautiful daughter Heather. And I feel terrific! My life is back in perspective.
Yes each of them is fun and bright and interesting. But, too, those warm human connections were just what I was lacking and starved for.
Now, I’ve known about, and written about, the so called “bonding hormone” oxytocin for years!
Hugging, hand holding, and human touch all stimulate the body’s production of oxytocin, which in turn lowers the baddie – cortisol, and increases our immune systems and sense of security and peace.
So for that Balanced Life we’re all seeking, be sure to schedule plenty of connection time with friends and family. They’re good for you ~