News India Live, Digital Desk: ‘Hug Day’ is celebrated on the sixth day of Valentine’s Week, i.e. 12th February. Often people see it only as a romantic gesture, but science says that hugging a loved one acts as a ‘natural booster’ for your mental and physical health. According to psychologists, a ‘hug’ of just 20 seconds can reduce your stress and make your heart beat. 5 Amazing Health Benefits of Hugging (Scientific Benefits of Hugging) Releases stress: When we hug someone, the level of ‘cortisol’ (stress hormone) in our body falls and ‘oxytocin’ (love hormone) is released. This gives instant peace to the mind and reduces anxiety. Blood pressure and heart health: Research shows that regular hugs with loved ones keep blood pressure under control. It stabilizes the heart rate, which reduces the risk of heart diseases. Increases immunity: Hugging also has a positive effect on the body’s immunity. When you are happy and relaxed, your cells are more able to fight infections. Fight Loneliness and Depression: A ‘hug’ is more than medicine for a person feeling lonely. It provides a feeling of security and belonging, which helps in reducing the symptoms of depression. Improves sleep: Hugging a partner or children before sleeping helps the body relax, which improves the quality of sleep. How long is a ‘hug’ most effective? Experts believe that an effective hug should be at least 20 seconds. In this time, the flow of oxytocin starts in the body, which deepens the trust and connection in relationships. New beginning of relationships on ‘Hug Day’ It is not necessary that you hug only your partner. On this day, you can also express your happiness and gratitude by hugging your parents, friends or your pets. This small step can melt the ice in your relationships and bring happiness.