EP 2416 - Skin Hunger: Deprivation of Human Touch

In this episode of The Teresa Pod, Teresa Conway discusses the concept of "skin hunger"—the impact of going without human touch. She shares her experiences with touch deprivation, from her childhood to later life, and explains the lasting effects of a single hug in high school. Teresa also dives into the science behind human touch, focusing on how oxytocin—the "love drug"—plays a vital role in emotional well-being. Touch deprivation can lead to anxiety, depression, and other health issues, making regular physical contact essential.

Episode Highlights:

• Definition of skin hunger and how it affects various groups (e.g., elderly, shut-ins, people in prison)
• Teresa’s personal story of growing up without much physical affection
• The significance of a single hug and how it stayed with her for years
• Health impacts of touch deprivation: anxiety, depression, sleep problems, weight gain, and more
• How oxytocin is released through physical contact, helping us feel connected and cared for
• The importance of everyday touch, like hand-holding and back-scratching

Key Takeaways:

• Regular physical contact is essential for emotional and physical health.
• A lack of touch over time can lead to a range of mental and physical health problems.
• Touch goes beyond sensuality—it fosters connection, reduces stress, and improves well-being.

Quotable Moment: "That hug, though short, transferred a warmth and energy into me that I never knew I was missing."

Call to Action: If you know someone who may be going without regular physical contact, especially elderly or isolated individuals, consider how you can offer that connection. And don’t forget to subscribe to The Teresa Pod for more episodes like this!

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