A hug really can drive pain away

A new study has found that a hug from a loved one really does work in driving pain away and reducing stress.

University of California revealed that, at least for women, the touch or sight or even a photograph of a partner seems to anaesthetise them, reportsthe Telegraph.

25 women volunteers were given a mild burn after which the scientists found that they felt less discomfort by looking at photos of their boyfriends.

A similar effect was seen if they held hands with their partners when "moderately painful heat stimuli" was applied to their forearms.

Meanwhile educational Psychologist Dr Ludwig Lowenstein claims that the secret to a happy marriage could be four hugs a day.

Other important elements included two romantic walks a month and at least one visit to a pub or cinema without the children or other friends.

The couples also recommended that husbands should give their wife flowers or another gift at least once a month. But they also advised people to spend at least one evening away from their partner a month.