Hugging and other forms of nonsexual touching cause your brain to release oxytocin, known as the "bonding hormone." This stimulates the release of other feel-good hormones, such as dopamine and serotonin, while reducing stress hormones, such as cortisol and norepinephrine.

Why does being touched feel so good?

Massaging and caressing our skin stimulates the vagus nerve, which runs up the spine to the brain and helps regulate multiple body functions. Being touched in a loving way reduces levels of the stress chemical cortisol and increases levels of the feel-good chemical oxytocin.

Why does it feel-good to touch my girlfriend?

The person being touched feels pleasure because they have sensory cells specifically attuned to this slow, comforting stroke, which, when activated, causes them to feel a warm, fuzzy, happy feeling. ... "Giving pleasure is receiving pleasure," Fotopoulou told Mic. Giphy. The science of touch has evolutionary roots.