Handshakes have been a common form of greeting for centuries. The tradition of shaking hands dates back to ancient Greece, where it was a symbol of peace, cooperation, and trust.

Over the years, handshakes have become ubiquitous in our social and professional interactions. However, with the recent pandemic, this simple gesture of goodwill has come under scrutiny due to its potential health risks. So, let’s explore the health secrets behind handshakes.

What are the benefits of handshakes?

Handshakes convey a lot about a person and the kind of relationship they share with another individual. Here are a few benefits of handshakes:.

1. Establish rapport

Shaking hands is a great way to break the ice and establish rapport. It’s a nonverbal gesture that communicates warmth, friendliness, and openness.

A handshake can put people at ease, set a positive tone for a conversation or meeting, and help establish a personal connection.

2. Convey trust and respect

A handshake conveys trust and respect towards the other person. It shows that you trust the person enough to touch them, and it’s a sign of mutual respect.

It is a sign that you take the other person seriously and want to establish a connection that goes beyond just words.

3. Improve mental health

Shaking hands releases endorphins, which triggers a positive feeling in the brain. This, in turn, leads to reduced anxiety, stress, and depression. Handshakes can also help in boosting confidence and self-esteem, which indirectly enhances mental health.

4. Enhance immunity

Studies show that shaking hands stimulates the production of white blood cells, which are essential for our immune system.

The more often we shake hands, the more we train our immune system to combat infections, thus improving our overall health and immunity.

What are the risks involved in handshakes?

Although handshakes have many benefits, they also come with some health risks. Here are some of them:.

1. Spread of germs

Handshakes can easily spread germs and infections from one person to another. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), handshakes can spread various infections like the flu, cold, and COVID-19.

Therefore, it’s essential to practice good hygiene habits like washing hands regularly, avoiding touching one’s face, and wearing masks, especially during outbreaks of contagious diseases.

2. Trigger allergies

Some people are allergic to certain substances or materials that might be present on the hands of others. For example, latex gloves or other substances present in a handshake might trigger an allergic reaction in some individuals.

3. Cause injury

Extremely vigorous handshakes or even fist bumps can cause injuries like bruises and strains. It’s crucial to be mindful of the strength of the handshake and adjust it accordingly to avoid injuring oneself or others.

4. Inappropriate touching

In some cultures, handshakes are not considered an ideal form of greeting, especially between opposite genders. In such cases, a simple nod or wave might suffice to show respect and establish a connection.

Celebrity Handshake Disasters

Even celebrities are not immune to the hazards of handshakes. Here are a few examples of celebrity handshake disasters:.

1. Donald Trump’s Arm Wrestle Handshake

Former President Donald Trump was famous for his unorthodox and often uncomfortable handshakes. In one instance, he was seen engaging in an arm-wrestling handshake with the French President Emmanuel Macron.

2. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Finger Kiss Handshake

Actor Leonardo DiCaprio’s unique handshake with his co-star Jonah Hill from the movie ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ garnered a lot of attention.

In the clip, he is seen extending his hand for a handshake, but instead, he used his other hand to brush Hill’s finger and kissed it.

3. Tom Brady’s Refusal to Shake Hands

Quarterback Tom Brady is known for his competitive nature, and in one instance, he refused to shake hands with his opponent’s quarterback after a game. This act of disrespect made headlines and was widely discussed in the sports media.

: Conclusion

Handshakes have become an integral part of our social and cultural practices. They convey a lot about the individuals involved and can help establish a positive connection.

However, with the ongoing pandemic and other health risks associated with handshakes, it’s crucial to be mindful of the hygienic practices and avoid shaking hands in situations where it’s not appropriate.