I am sure this is scientifically validated. Said with tongue in cheek. 🙂 Well my skepticism was misplaced, turns out it is true! Hugging increases levels of the “love hormone” oxytocin, which is beneficial for stress levels, heart health, and more.
https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/06/hugging.aspx
and
https://www.thecrazyfacts.com/hugging-20-seconds-releases-oxytocin-can-make-someone-trust/