Holding hands with someone you love can reduce pain and stress – instantly.
Science studies shown that physical touch between close partners can have measurable effects on the body and brain. In experiments where people held hands with a loved one during moments of discomfort, researchers observed lower heart rates, reduced stress responses, and even less perceived pain.
Brain imaging studies found that romantic partners often experience synchronized brain activity during hand-holding – especially when one person is in distress.
The stronger the emotional bond, the more pronounced the effect. One study even showed that hand-holding during an anticipated electric shock reduced activity in brain regions linked to fear and pain. 
