Holding Hands with Loved Ones Creates Interpersonal Synchronization by Brooke Blanton with Gottman on Emotional Connection
Sun Feb 08 2026
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2897:
Brooke Blanton explores the quiet power of touch in moments of distress, sharing how something as simple as holding hands with a loved one can offer profound emotional relief. Backed by research on interpersonal synchronization, her story reveals how physical connection can literally align brainwaves, reduce pain, and deepen emotional bonds.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gottman.com/blog/holding-hands-synchronization/
Quotes to ponder:
"You might be surprised at the kinds of emotional connection you can experience together through a small gesture of physical connection."
"When the couple was sitting next to each other holding hands, the brainwave sync was the strongest."
"We spend years building connections with the people in our lives, romantic partners, close family members, best friends, so consider the importance of physical touch."
More
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2897: Brooke Blanton explores the quiet power of touch in moments of distress, sharing how something as simple as holding hands with a loved one can offer profound emotional relief. Backed by research on interpersonal synchronization, her story reveals how physical connection can literally align brainwaves, reduce pain, and deepen emotional bonds. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gottman.com/blog/holding-hands-synchronization/ Quotes to ponder: "You might be surprised at the kinds of emotional connection you can experience together through a small gesture of physical connection." "When the couple was sitting next to each other holding hands, the brainwave sync was the strongest." "We spend years building connections with the people in our lives, romantic partners, close family members, best friends, so consider the importance of physical touch."