10 short rituals you can do every day to boost your mental health

Research has shown that a hug as short as 10 seconds releases the bonding hormone oxytocin, according to Pang. If you can’t physically touch someone, even simply putting one hand on top of the other, for example, or over your heart for about a minute, instils a sense of compassion that helps you relax. Take a moment before or after work, when stress levels may be high, to soothe yourself. And don’t forget about your furry friends, too. Petting your dog or cat counts as well especially since a 2019 study in Aera Open found that just 10 minutes of interaction reduces the stress hormone cortisol.

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Source: RD.com