There’s no doubt that the act of shaking hands is more than just a common greeting – it can convey far more information about our health than we thought. A simple handshake can say a lot about our health and lifestyle habits.
First, the strength of your handshake can reveal a lot about your muscles and cardiovascular fitness. Studies have shown that people with a weak handshake might be prone to muscle weakness, frailty, or other health problems like arthritis, neurological disorders, or cardiovascular problems. Conversely, a firm handshake can indicate good muscle tone and general vitality.
Next, handshake strength was shown to be linked to early mortality. Research has found that people with weaker hand grip strength have a higher risk of all-cause mortality. Additionally, it was observed that those who developed a weak intake as adults had a 20% increased risk of death from heart disease, respiratory disease or even certain cancers.
The duration of a handshake can also reveal information about a person’s social health. An excessively prolonged handshake could be a sign of embarrassment or social anxiety, which may be linked to mental health issues like social anxiety disorder. Conversely, a brief but confident handshake is often associated with self-assurance and mental well-being.
The temperature and humidity of your hands during a handshake can also provide clues about your circulatory system and automatic nerve function. Cold, sweaty hands can suggest poor circulation, anxiety or hormonal imbalances, while warm, dry hands generally indicate normal circulation and a relaxed state.
Finally, any pain or discomfort during a handshake may be a sign of an underlying musculoskeletal problem, such as arthritis, tendinitis, or carpal tunnel syndrome. Stiffness, swelling, or inflammation in the joints can make handshakes uncomfortable or even unbearable.
In conclusion, the simple action of shaking hands can say a lot about our overall health and well-being. It’s important to pay attention to these subtle signals that our body sends through a handshake, as they could reveal valuable information about our health status. A good handshake can be more than just a greeting, it can be a mirror to our physical and mental health.