I drink a lot of hot beverages.
I almost always have a cup of hot water during my coaching appointments.
If I sit to have a conversation with a friend or family member, I almost always grab a cup of hot water or coffee.
If I’m feeling down, I grab a cup of hot water or tea and meditate.
Until recently, I didn’t know how positive the impact of merely holding that warm beverage could be on my physical and mental well-being.
There have been numerous studies conducted that suggest that holding a warm cup of coffee can have a positive impact on our cognitive processes, physical well-being, and even social interactions.
Geek-out moment: The idea that the mind is “not only connected to the body but that the body influences the mind is one of the more counter-intuitive ideas in cognitive science” is embodied cognition.
A Harvard, Yale, and MIT study shows that if your counterpart is holding a warm cup of coffee, it favorably predisposes them toward you. Think about that next time you want to ask your boss for a raise or have a difficult conversation with someone you care about.
Holding a warm cup of coffee can help us feel more comfortable and relaxed. A study published in 2008 found that physical warmth can positively impact our social interactions, making us more open and trusting toward others. For example, the study found that when participants held a warm cup of coffee before meeting someone new, they were likelier to rate that person as trustworthy and honest.
In addition to its impact on social interactions, holding a warm cup of coffee can also have cognitive benefits. A study showed drinking two cups of hot chocolate a day may help older people keep their brains healthy and their thinking skills sharp.
Not a hot chocolate drinker? Coffee is also very beneficial. According to a Harvard School of Public Health study, consuming 3 to 5 standard cups of coffee daily has been consistently associated with a reduced risk of several chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and liver cancer.
As a side note, if you like warm beverages as much as I do, you may be interested in the line of Ember mugs. You determine the perfect temperature, and the Ember mug keeps it right there. Although a little spendy, it has been a purchase that has brought me great joy every single morning.
The impact of holding a warm cup of coffee on positive outcomes is well-documented. From its effects on social interactions to cognitive performance and physical health, the simple act of holding a warm cup of coffee can have a profound impact on our well-being. So, the next time you reach for that steaming cup of water, tea, coffee, or hot cocoa, remember that it’s not just a delicious treat – it’s also a powerful tool for promoting health, happiness, and overall well-being.
Cindy Jobs, PCAC, PCC
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