Losing Touch

ven if the most optimistic projections become reality, you’re likely reading this while still sequestered at home in your sucks. Back before this pandemic, you probably welcomed a day free of co-workers, friends, and even (if we’re being honest) your significant other. After a month-plus of me time, however, you’d trade your secret cache of TP for just one awkward fist bump from Darren the HR guy. “Something about expressive affection is part of our evolutionary biology,” says Meara Faw, an assistant professor of communication studies at Colorado State University. “It’s helped us survive through centuries of adapting to the hard realities of life.” In other words, physical connection doesn’t only feel good; it also makes our species happier and healthier. Turn the page to learn about that evolution—and why we need to suppress the instinct for a while.