Touch hunger: A silent Killer

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

COVID 19 has been an awful illness. It has caused death, sickness, change in human behaviour,
the impacted economy destroyed livelihood- the list is endless. Social distancing, masking and hand
hygiene are the only means identified as effective in preventing the spread. These are all necessary
means. We all must stick to them.

An indirect effect of social distancing that is often not acknowledged is we have had to stop or
reduce touching each other. Humans are social animals. We love to touch others and love to be
touched. Let’s also not forget that skin is the largest organ in our body. Not being able to nurture this
organ is leading to what scientists are describing as “touch hunger”. Studies are beginning to show
touch hunger during this pandemic is leading to many mental health problems including anxiety
depression, insecurities and even suicidal thoughts. Read more

You will be surprised to know the treatment for touch hunger may be rather easy- it is no different
to the various types of hunger we experience. Just feed it. Touch your loved ones in your bubble more
often. Hugs, kisses, pats on the back, handshakes are many such examples in which we can feed this
hunger.

Another effective way to curb touch hunger is massage. Use a good oil and massage yourself. It
doesn’t matter whether you are massaging your face, head, limbs joints- you are feeding the largest
organ in your body which is feeling hungry. If you need help with choosing oil specific to your body
type Body oil or for Face massage or sinuses  Ayuspa has a range of options.

Once the lockdown is over don’t forget to book a pampering massage for yourself and your loved
ones at Ayuspa. Food after fasting tastes so much better. Your massage will feel extra special this
time around.

Posted by
 Dr Rachna Kumar graduated in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery from India and has continued to develop her skills by attending regular courses in the UK, USA, New Zealand and India. She has practised Ayurveda for 20 years in New Zealand and England. She now offers specialist health and beauty services using Ayurvedic principles for women in Hamilton. www.ayuspa.co.nz