By Michael G. Rayel, MD


“It is the magic of a touch, the power of a hug . . . that make life joyful.” This is a portion of my essay in high school. My teacher loved it. She even thought that a professional writer honed the article for me. “Michael, did you really write that?”

Her skepticism was a compliment at the time. Her disbelief was a subtle way of saying I had some writing ability. You know what?  I bragged about it for days!

What is the power of touch?

Science tells us that a touch triggers the release of brain endorphins — a brain chemical more powerful than most analgesics including heroin or morphine. But touch is more than just a scientific confluence of brain chemicals.

My late grandmother taught me the only way to tame a wild cat was to rub her forehead several times. One day, a relative from the mountain village gave my family a cat. She was small but fierce. Every inch of her looked unfriendly. In fact, nobody in our household dared to touch her.

But grandma’s wisdom compelled me to try. After gathering some confidence, I stayed closer to her. Initially, she would jump and would bend its body and tail in rage while spewing a loud, ferocious cry. She almost bit my finger! Each time I attempted to touch her, she would run away. Gradually, she gave in and allowed me to massage her forehead — initially, for a few seconds and then for a few minutes.

A few days later, she mellowed that she allowed me to touch her head almost no end. Eventually she became my pet. We became close that she would run to meet me when I returned from school and would convey a lonely cry each time I said good-bye. Yes, like real close friends.

A touch can indeed tame a wild animal. But can it tame and soften a disturbed child? One study shows that children who have not been hugged enough have a tendency to be violent and aggressive compared to those who receive hug more often.

Perhaps, there is more to hug and touch than just release of endorphins.

A touch provides comfort in a freezing night. It makes us feel secure because it unites us with an affectionate, loving, and feeling human being. The warmth it brings is better than the warmth a fireplace can provide.  

A touch makes the body aversive to stress. If given a chance, it can heal both physical and emotional wounds. It shields us from the worries of today because of the security and confidence it brings. Like internet, it allows high-speed access to another soul.

When my wife hugs me, I can feel that all my aches and concerns of the day disappear.  I feel refreshed and transformed. I feel young and recharged — a dynamo ready to capture dreams and to take big risks.

When I come home after a full day’s work and my kids hug me, I feel an immediate relief. I feel fulfilled and rewarded for all my efforts. Their smile and warm embrace always give me drive and enthusiasm to think beyond myself. I then celebrate joyfully.

True, a touch releases an unknown yet powerful energy. Somehow, it transforms life in some mysterious ways.

So never underestimate the power of touch. That little pat in the back, that sincere handshake of reconciliation, or that unexpected embrace from a long lost friend can release life’s magic in an instant.  

Indeed, touch is the best cure we need to own and claim forever — and it’s free.


About the Author:

Dr. Michael G. Rayel — author, game inventor, and psychiatrist — has created the Oikos Game Series to promote emotional health. Since 2005, he has published Oikos’ Insights! as an online resource for personal development. Suggest a topic at www.oikosglobal.com or www.soardime.com.