Do you ever feel uncomfortable when people lay their hands on you when they pray for you? There actually may be something legitimate, and even scientific, to the effects of prayer by touch.
Check out this video of Lance Luria speaking at a medical conference about The Power of Touch:
The exciting thing about this clip is it is an MD speaking to a lot more professionals about how mere person to person physical contact can be a stronger impact on someone's chemical makeup than many drugs.
Here is a screen shot from the talk detailing some of their findings:
We spoke about interesting circumstances where people would use touch to influence (even manipulate) others. One scientific study measured greater petition participation from passers by when they were engaged in physical contact compared to when they were only asked to sign. Are there circumstances in which you feel more impressionable when physical touch is applied?
Coincidentally enough I was working on my computer at a local cafe the morning of the day we were going to meet about this topic. I was there for about five hours (which is far longer than most of their clientele) and eventually a very friendly busser/food runner stopped by my table. He put his hand on my shoulder and with a wide smile asked if I would like to join their mailing list. I noted how his approach alone had me ready to accept his invitation even before I registered what he had actually asked.
It's amazing what an extra second while shaking hands, a hug, or merely gently touching someone's shoulder can do to change someone's outlook.
Additionally, there are further studies regarding touch as a medical treatment. One great article is here: http://www.homehelpersphilly.com/blog/bid/38832/The-Importance-of-Touch-When-Caring-for-the-Elderly
This week, be sure to pray when others and when you do make a point to touch them either by holding hands or placing your hand on his/her shoulder.
Oh, and for those of us singles who think they are the only ones who long for a hug...
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