It’s been nearly a month since the Province of B.C. declared a state of emergency due to COVID-19, and Dr. Bonnie Henry asked all British Columbians to stay home. For our friends with partners and kids, the novelty of quality time together is starting to wear off (read: moms are hiding in closets and the word “divorce” is starting to be thrown around), while singles who live alone are starting to have a serious case of touch starvation. Yes, the lack of physical touch due to social distancing protocols is starting to take its toll on many of us. And there’s a scientific reason for it. —Lise Boullard
why touch is important. When we engage in hugs, cuddles and other forms of affection, our bodies release the feel-good hormones oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin, which help to regulate mood and make us feel calmer and more relaxed during these challenging times. Being touched by another living being can also help boost our immune system, which is kind of important in the midst of a pandemic. Regular affection can also help lower blood pressure and heart rate according to this study.
symptoms of touch starvation. If you haven’t had physical contact for the past few weeks and you are starting to feel depressed, stressed, anxious, and you’re having difficulty sleeping, you might be suffering from touch hunger, or starvation.
how to deal. If you live alone, you will likely have to wait until the social distancing protocols are lifted before you are able to experience a hug, handshake or kiss again. (Yikes!) Thankfully, in the meantime, there are a few things you can do to get the cuddle-like experiences you crave.
spend time with a pet. There is currently no evidence that domestic animals such as dogs and cats can get COVID-19, according to the BC Centre for Disease Control. So, go ahead and offer to take care of a friend or family member’s pet for a few days, and get as many pet cuddles as you can in the process! Just be sure to disinfect their toys, food and water bowls and accessories, and stay six feet away from their owner when meeting up for the pet pass over.
practise self-massage. Giving yourself a daily ayurvedic massage is a wonderful way to satisfy your need for human touch. This massage technique called Abhyanga, outlined on spiritual guru Deepak Chopra’s website, takes 15 to 20 minutes and uses sesame oil, coconut and almond oil, depending on your dosha, or ayurvedic mind-body type. Along with imparting a sense of calm, practiced daily, this massage can help increase circulation, improve sleep and enhance circulation.
pamper yourself. Giving yourself a manicure and a pedicure (complete with a hand and foot massage) can mimic the effect of skin contact with another living creature.
embrace cosy objects and décor. Whether it’s a faux-fur throw pillow on your couch, a silk pillowcase, a silky blouse or even a stuffed animal, surrounding yourself with objects that feel good against your skin can help tide you over until hugs with humans are allowed again.
have a long bubble bath or shower. Physical warmth can increase feelings of comfort and security, so taking a long, luxurious warm bath or shower, (preferably with some calming essential oils such as lavender) can help replace the social warmth we are missing in our lives right now.
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