Couple Up: 9 Ways Love Makes You Healthier (& Hotter!)

While sex can be a huge stress-buster, it's not the only form of physical contact that's good for your mental well-being. Hugging, cuddling and touching can put you in better spirits and help you relax. A University of North Carolina study discovered that when couples hugged, they had higher blood levels of oxytocin — the bonding hormone that relieves stress and improve mood. In another study, researchers looked at cohabiting couples and tested for the stress hormone cortisol before, during and after being separated for four to seven days. Researchers found that when the couples were separated physically, they had higher cortisol levels and had worse sleep than when they were together. And it's not just romantic love either that's keeping you well-balanced. One study shows that a mother's love can counteract negative health effects and protect young kids from the physiological effects of stress.