Human beings are social creatures, it’s hard to deny that. We love our friends and our Friday nights. We’re never too far from our mobile device in case a message comes through. We’re always thrilled when our latest social media post gets a whole bunch of “likes”. We crave connection with other people, but it seems we’re not as much into physical touch anymore. Not like we used to be, anyway.
In the last 20 years or so, as technology has picked up the pace, it seems that our ability to physically connect with each other has been replaced with a digital connection instead. While it might seem like a natural progression, it’s not.
Nice Touch
There is emotional intelligence that arises when we spend time relating to other humans one-on-one. We can look in their eyes, see their facial expressions, put an arm around them, and generally be present with them on a physical and emotional level. But relating to a fellow human through digital means does not offer any of these options, and the more time we spend in that digital realm, the less we are experiencing any of the physical touch benefits.
The importance of physical touch cannot be overstated. A 1986 study confirmed that touching leads young children to become more involved in a task and to be less disruptive in class. From the study: “The conductors of this experiment asked teachers to touch their pupils whilst they congratulated them on their results or on their behavior during classes. Teachers were also instructed not to touch their pupils during other interactions. Results have shown that in two different classes where such observations were made, there was a 60% reduction in disruptive behavior following touching, compared with the average of such behavior before the adoption of this tactile encouragement.” (1)
These days it’s so easy to forego a pat on the back or a warm hug. Especially in a time when people fear potential legal ramifications for such actions. Something as simple as extending a friendly handshake might not even occur to us as readily, thanks to our immersion in the digital realm. But if it does, the #metoo climate might give us further pause.
But We’re Still Human
It’s important to realize that, as humans, physical connection is a necessity for our well-being. Countless studies have been performed to show that physical touch benefits your health in several ways, including stress reduction and boosted immune function. One such study looked at the effects of therapeutic massage on women with breast cancer and found that there were immediate and long term effects, including reduced depression and increased serotonin and dopamine levels. (2)
Having a pet has similar effects on us humans, increasing our overall happiness and possibly even getting us a date. (3) Turns out Fido is not only adorable, but he’s also a date magnet. Finding yourself down the digital rabbit hole of no human contact lately? Consider a furry friend to get yourself back on the right track!
Never before have we been able to get so much done in one day, and never before have we been so accessible to each other. It really is a remarkable world we’re living in. Be sure that while you’re in the midst of the most productive era in your life thus far, you stay in touch with how you’re feeling inside. Remember: You’re human, and touching others is important. Even a hand on a shoulder can go a long way toward letting someone know you see them and you care. Try it, you might really like it.
