Amy saw a recent study about what happens in the body during a hug, breaking it down by time intervals.
She began by saying that in the first zero to three seconds, the brain registers safety and the body stops scanning for threats. Between three and seven seconds, oxytocin is released, which she described as a bonding hormone that signals belonging to the nervous system. From seven to fifteen seconds, she noted that cortisol levels drop, muscles begin to relax, breathing deepens, and tension that may not have been noticeable starts to release. She said hugs lasting fifteen seconds or longer can feel uncomfortable to some people. Between fifteen and thirty seconds, the parasympathetic nervous system activates, which is when healing occurs. During this time, digestion improves and heart rate stabilizes. From thirty to sixty seconds, the body regulates blood pressure, emotional safety deepens, and the nervous system resets.
Amy concluded that to experience the full benefits, a hug should last between thirty and sixty seconds. The group reacted to the idea, discussing how long thirty seconds actually feels. Bobby suggested demonstrating it and asked Eddie and Lunchbox to hug for thirty seconds on stage. Before starting, Amy explained that the hug needed to be a full embrace, with arms wrapped around each other, bodies touching, and no pulling away. She started the timer and narrated what was supposed to be happening in their bodies at each stage, including safety registering, oxytocin releasing, cortisol dropping, and tension easing.
During the hug, Eddie appeared calm while Lunchbox remained stiff and tense. Amy pointed out that Eddie seemed relaxed and peaceful, while Lunchbox struggled to loosen up. Eddie said he felt safe during the hug, but Lunchbox did not feel the same level of relaxation. Amy commented that Lunchbox’s tension may have prevented him from receiving the full benefits.
After the hug ended, the group discussed how differently each person responded. Eddie said he was able to relax, while Lunchbox remained tense, citing ongoing back pain from a recent car accident.
