Mum's voice as good as a hug. It helps alleviate the stress
Konrad Siwik,14.11.2023 14:30When mum calls, you should answer without a slightest delay. After all, according to scientists, her voice can relieve stress just as effectively as a hug.
With misery raging around the world, finding solace and comfort becomes an essential factor for a stress-free life. It turns out that one of the most powerful sources of comfort is the familiar, soothing voice of our mothers.
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Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have found that a mother's voice can relieve stress as effectively as a hug thanks to a remarkable hormone called oxytocin which levels rise when you talk to her. What's more, she may not even be present in the same room. Just hearing her is enough to comfort us.
Talking to you mum can reduce stress
Researchers tested the effect of a mother's voice on a group of girls aged between 7-12. During a stressful task, girls who received a phone call from their mother had the same decrease in the level of cortisol (ie. the "stress hormone") and at the same time the increase in level of oxytocin as those who received a hug. This suggests that emotional support can be given and received without the need for physical presence. Offering comfort, even from a distance, works just as well.
As a reminder, quite recently Bedoes 2115 appeared in the "Young Heads" (Polish: "Młode głowy") campaign. It is a project aiming at educating young people about mental health, among other things. The rapper encouraged people to talk to their mothers about their problems. After all, not only daughters, but also sons can be cheered up by talking to their mothers.
Oxytocin: The "love hormone"
Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone", plays a key role in strengthening social bonds and relieving stress. When children hear their mother's voice, especially in moments of anxiety or fear, oxytocin floods their bodies, creating a deep sense of calm and security.
This phenomenon highlights the remarkable interaction between human emotions and biology. Even in adulthood, a frank conversation with your mother can have a stress-reducing effect thanks to oxytocin. Therefore, the next time you feel stressed or overwhelmed, consider contacting your mother. A simple conversation can release the "love hormone", relieving stress levels and reminding you of the incredible bond you have with your parents.
Source: Wealth/"Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences"
