139: Science-Backed Benefits of Hugging: The Daily Habit to boost your happiness, immunity, connection and joy

139: Science-Backed Benefits of Hugging: The Daily Habit to boost your happiness, immunity, connection and joy

Author: Lorrie Mickelson, Habits & Self Care February 15, 2025 Duration: 22:23

Happy Valentine’s Day, Habit Thrivers!


On Episode #139 of the Habit Thrive Podcast, we are continuing to explore and expand our heart focus.


And today’s subject is a simple, yet powerful tool that is a mood and well-being booster that just about anyone can do: Hugging.


Giving (and receiving) hugs is so amazing for our health and wellbeing, and today we will start out by exploring the scientific reasons behind the “why”.


  • Lowers Heart Rate & Blood Pressure
  • Releases Oxytocin ("The Love Hormone")
  • Reduces Stress & Improves Heart Coherence
  • Strengthens Emotional Resilience
  • Enhances Circulation & Immune Function


Next, we’re going to discover how many hugs we should be experiencing on a daily basis (and for how long) to fully reap the benefits.


Spoiler alert: The number varies based on whether you want to just survive or thrive!


And, lastly, we’re going to talk about how we can make hugging a habit.


I’m boosting this hugging habit with a fun little challenge, so tune in and join me as a hugger-in-training!


 


Lorrie xoxox


Loving the show? Let’s connect! Find me:

Facebook: Women's Wellness Community: For women wanting to rock their “Me Now” Years

Instagram: @Habitguru365

Website: lorriemickelson.com


Habits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care For Women 50 & Beyond



Loving the show? Let’s connect! Find me:

Facebook: Women's Wellness Community: For women wanting to rock their “Me Now” Years

Instagram: @Habitguru365

Website: lorriemickelson.com

MemberVault: lorriemickelson.vipmembervault.com


Habits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care For Women 50 & Beyond


Navigating the years after fifty brings a unique blend of freedom and uncertainty. The Habit Thrive Podcast ~ Self Care Habits, Mindfulness & Wellness Routines for Women 50 & Beyond is a companion for that journey, hosted by Lorrie Mickelson. This isn't about drastic overhauls but the steady, impactful habits that fit into a life already rich with experience. Lorrie focuses on practical, sustainable self-care that acknowledges the physical and emotional shifts of this chapter. You'll hear conversations that feel like a chat with a knowledgeable friend, exploring how small, consistent actions in fitness, mindfulness, and daily routines can lead to feeling stronger, sleeping more soundly, and approaching each day with renewed energy instead of overwhelm. This podcast digs into the real how-to, from establishing grounding morning rituals to winding down effectively at night, all tailored for the realities and opportunities of life after fifty. It’s a resource for building resilience and vitality through manageable steps, making the most of this vibrant and potentially transformative time. Tune in for honest discussions and actionable ideas that help you thrive in your own definition of wellness.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Habit Thrive Podcast ~ Self Care Habits, Mindfulness & Wellness Routines for Women 50 & Beyond
Podcast Episodes
170: Ayurvedic Wisdom to Strengthen Belief in Your Habits & Routines [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:41
Last week, I started with the question: Do you truly believe that your habits and routines can change your life?We talked about how we can strengthen our muscles of believing — believing in our habits, our routines, and…
166: When Me Now Becomes Now What? A Loving Tribute [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:42
Me now.What does it mean to you?For some, it's empowering: A good reminder that your needs matter, too.To others, it's a bold (sometimes selfish) notion.To me, it's always been a radical act of self love and self care.Bu…
165: A Nourishing Breath Ritual for August Self-Care [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:49
August has been a month wrapped in soft edges ... an invitation to slow down, stretch out, and sink into the little moments that nourish us.In keeping with this season of rest and renewal, I'm sharing one of my favorite…