It's one reason why the Filipinas have such a strong bond.
Philippine women's national football team captain Tahnai Annis leads by example. And, on Monday, she shared just what makes the Filipinas' bond so strong.
Group hugs.
Yes, group hugs.
She shared multiple photos of the squad hugging during the second round of the AFC Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
"{Group Hugs 🤗}. Strongly recommend. 10/10," she wrote. "So grateful to be back on the pitch with the fam 😌"
And as expected, the rest of the Filipinas such as Bella Pasion, Quinley Quezada, Angie Beard, Sofia Harrison, and Katrina Guillou chimed in for a virtual hug.
Hugs and cuddles can be good for everyone, scientifically speaking. Oxytocin, or the so-called feel-good hormone, is released whenever people are being physically affectionate. This also reduces the level of cortisol, or the stress hormone, according to Penn Medicine.org of the University of Pennsylvania.
So, not only does it improve relationships, the oxytocin released because of hugs can also reduce heart rate and blood pressure, according to the Berkeley Well-being Institute.
No wonder coach Mark Torcaso was particularly impressed with the Filipinas' bond.
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So, take cue from the Filipinas. Find someone to hug (with consent). It's strongly recommended.
(MDB)