Humans need touch, it’s just a fact. We are creatures that crave connection, and physical touch reduces anxiety and promotes bonding. Touch deprivation is also known as touch starvation or skin hunger. When you go without skin-to-skin contact for long periods, it can negatively impact your mental health and well-being. If you’ve been feeling lonely or disconnected from others, experiencing low relationship satisfaction, are having trouble sleeping or feeling crankier and more irritable than usual, you might be skin starved.
The good news is you can boost your touch levels through contact with any living thing—not just humans. Try a cuddle with a warm cat or petting a dog while you watch TV. When a cat or puppy curls up on your lap, they provide warmth and companionship, reduce stress and lower blood pressure—acting as a calming presence and offering emotional support. Cats even promote relaxation through purring—the sound and vibration has been scientifically proven to reduce stress.
Another great way to meet your touch-quota is to schedule a massage or a facial. Both provide gentle, positive skin-to-skin interaction, stimulate blood flow and help your muscles relax. Regular massage appointments can keep good feelings going strong, and combat any touch deprivation you might be feeling. Want another easy win? Become a hugger. When we embrace other people, our bodies are flooded with oxytocin, aka “the love hormone”. So whenever you see a loved one, get into the habit of hugging both hello and goodbye. You can even explain “I’m a hugger!” beforehand—a charming way to let them know that it’s just part of your routine.
For an easy at-home cure, weighted blankets are an amazing way to get comfort and soothe anxiety. The weight actually mimics the sensation of being hugged or held. Choose which weight is right for you—they vary from 10 to 25 lbs. Then simply snuggle under the added weight while you’re reading or Netflixing. The deep pressure stimulation improves sleep quality and aids focus and concentration by relaxing the body and reducing fidgeting.
When the vagus nerve gets stimulated through touch, it lowers your blood pressure and heart rate, resulting in feelings of calm. Conversely, a lack of touch can intensify feelings of isolation, amplify anxiety or lead to depression. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of skin starvation—and find easy and effective ways to get your physical affection fix.
