What do Chuck Norris and Darth Vader have in common?

Stick with me—this will make sense.

🎶 Love, Love, Love – Sidewalk Prophets

"It's a great big hug for all those haters
Even broke through the dark side of Darth Vader
It's like the air we breathe, we all need it, oh, yeah
Even Chuck Norris can't defeat it”

Want to listen to the song? Click here for Love, Love, Love 

This song makes me smile every time—and reminds me of how God designed us with love woven into every fiber of our being. (That’s The Power of Love, oh yeah Huey Lewis and the News!)

Let’s talk about the science behind love.

When we’re loved well—or when we give love—we don’t just feel good emotionally. Our body responds in measurable, healing ways.

Meet oxytocin, a.k.a. the “love hormone” or “cuddle chemical.”
This hormone is released:

• When a mother gazes at her newborn
• When spouses embrace
• When humans bond with their pets

Now that gives new meaning to puppy love!

Oxytocin supports childbirth and nursing, yes—but also helps reduce fear, calm the nervous system, and promote a sense of safety. Early research even suggests it may play a role in:

• Pain regulation
• Bone formation
• Blood sugar control
• Cancer cell behavior (but more study is needed)

And guess what? Oxytocin and serotonin (your brain’s mood-balancing messenger) are besties. Together, they shape social bonding, emotion regulation, digestion, and sleep. So yes, a hug can help your gut and your peace of mind.

So what does that mean for you?

You were created for love. Real, safe, soul-nourishing love.
And when you give it away… it comes back to you.

Here’s your [Homework Assignment]:
Give a hug. Get a hug.
Let the pain and inflammation start to melt away.
Then go watch Star Wars—because it’s awesome.

Ready to deepen connection and health?

Let’s chat. I’d love to hear about your journey and how Hope and Healing Lifestyle Coaching might walk alongside you.

Book a virtual hug and coffee chat or if you are up for it sign up for a local coffee chat with a hug
Or schedule your Find Your Energy Discovery Session
Download your free healing guide at hopeandhealinglifestyle.com

Bonus Fun 

Are you a hugger of people, pets, or trees?
Email me back with a photo of your favorite hug recipient!
Can you feel the love tonight…? (Thank you, Elton John and The Lion King)

May the force of love be with you,

Kim

“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”
John 15:13 NKJV