I was going through old posts on my Facebook page when I saw one I shared several years ago demonstrating the healing power of touch. It’s such a good story that I re-shared it this week.
In 1995, twin girls were born 12 weeks premature. About three weeks after their birth, still in neonatal intensive care, a nurse noticed one of the girls struggling to breathe. Her heart rate increased and she started turning blue. Acting on instinct, the nurse picked up the stronger twin and placed her in the same incubator as her sister. Reflexively, the stronger twin reached out her arm and gave her sister a “hug,” and in doing so, stabilised the struggling twin’s vital signs.
Now kangaroo care, or skin-to-skin contact, is part of neonatal care.
Earlier this year I was reminded of the power of touch when, after an allergic reaction to a new shower gel, I developed a fiery itch over my body.
As I lay in bed complaining about the ceaseless discomfort, John wrapped his arms around me and gave me a hug. I was surprised to feel immediate relief as the itchiness faded away. I fell asleep and wasn’t bothered by the irritation again (I also didn’t use that particular shower gel again, of course).
Do you have a story about the healing power of touch? I’d love to hear about it.
Louise x
