The therapeutic power of hugs and kisses

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Extract from the article: The power of kisses and hugs on loved ones, especially children, goes beyond the physical. They are gestures that will help them grow, strengthen their self-esteem and give them a sense of security to better interact with the world around them...

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The power of kisses and hugs on loved ones, especially children, goes beyond the physical. They are gestures that will help them grow, strengthen their self-esteem and give them a sense of security to better interact with the world around them. These are medicines that cost nothing and that must be 'administered' every day to children, to the youngest.

Mrs Claire, 41 years old, trader at the Adidogomé Assiyéyé market, mother of two children, tells of the positive impact that cuddling has on the well-being of children. For her, the child feels protected and loved. "Cuddling your child, your baby, day after day, strengthens the bonding relationship that is formed. The baby or child feels secure with his parents. They grow up in a better and more loving environment," she says. Mr Ephraim, 66, a retired father and guardian, emphasises: "For a baby to grow up well, it is important to create a new atmosphere around him where he feels protected, loved and caressed. More than just a moment of pleasure, cuddling your child allows his brain to develop properly, it gives him a feeling of security: it's good for his growth and his balance".

According to an article published in the journal Scientific American, one of the most damaging things that affect orphans is the lack of cuddling and affectionate gestures. Even if the children are well fed and receive proper treatment, the lack of interaction prevents their proper brain development. This lack of affection does not allow them to grow up in a safe environment. Children who have grown up in immunosuppressed environments and who have not received sufficient affection and physical contact may develop post-traumatic stress, attention deficit disorder, low self-esteem and aggressive behaviour.

Researchers published in the journal "Development and Psychopathology" have even shown that cuddling a baby has a role in brain development. Cuddling allows the secretion of positive hormones, "well-being" hormones, which allow good development of the brain and the ability to manage stress. A simple cuddle is enough to reduce anxiety. If no one comforts them, children can be deeply unhappy and stressed. 

A universal language

Hugs, kisses and cuddles are also a way to bond. To foster a bond between parents and children, cuddling should begin at an early age. It is quite possible that as children grow, they will find these loving gestures unpleasant, but it is essential to keep the bond with them.

As they grow, hugs continue to play a therapeutic role, especially when children get upset or feel fear. A child does not only need clothes, food and school. Children need positive words, attention when they are scared or worried.

Advice to parents and guardians

Parents and guardians need to be good stewards of their emotional world, so that they can understand their moments of anger or anxiety. In addition, children are very good at distinguishing between genuine and insincere hugs and kisses. Never forget to give time and love to children. A gesture of affection towards a child always means more when it comes from the parents.

William O.