I always feel that February is the month of love because of Valentine’s Day. I have to admit, I am no longer the Casanova I use to be. I am guilty of last minute shopping or just giving cash to my wife. With a full patient schedule each day in addition to running the business aspect of a medical practice (multiple meetings throughout the week, networking, marketing, and teaching students), along with raising 2 toddlers and a newborn due to arrive next week, I can get run down and simply run out of personal time. However, love is the greatest gift of all gifts and it should never be taken for granted. So I am dedicating this article to why we need to pay attention to love, and that includes me.
Love has many health benefits and can boost your overall health and wellness. Just look at the impact of hugs. In a study, frequent “huggers” had lower resting blood pressure. Hugging also cuts down tremendously on stress. It provides security and courage to face problems and gives you a boost of self confidence. It has also been linked to better memory and helps maintain brain vitality.
Another interesting aspect on love was shown on a review done by the department of Health and Human Services on marriage and health. They found that married people tend to be sick less and many studies show that people who marry live longer. One possibility is that spouses tend to look out for each other and discourage unhealthy behavior, such as smoking or lack of exercise.
Therefore, I wish your life to be full of love and hugs.
Be a hugger, you’ll live a longer and healthy life!!!
Sincerely,
Erik Suh, MD
