This January 21st, there will be another International Hugging Day. This is a great opportunity to show your love and share joy with your loved one.
But did you know that scientific studies have actually revealed more benefits to hugging than just feeling good? Come and find out how hugging can reduce stress, boost heart health, make people happier and reduce anxiety.
What is International Hugging Day?
International Hugging Day is celebrated every year on January 21st. The holiday was created in 1986 by Kevin Zaborney, and its purpose is to promote hugging as a way to show love and affection without having to say a word. People of all ages participate in International Hugging Day, and it’s a great opportunity to show your loved ones how much you care about them.
Most people celebrate International Hugging Day by giving hugs to their friends, family, and loved ones. Some people even go out of their way to hug strangers! If you’re feeling extra festive, you can wear green or yellow clothing, which are the official colors of the holiday. You can also give out Hershey’s Kisses or other small gifts to people you hug. Whatever you do, make sure you spread the love on International Hugging Day!
Benefits of Hugs
Most people enjoy hugging because it feels good. It’s a natural way to show affection and make people feel loved, accepted, and supported. When we hug someone, our brains release oxytocin, which is sometimes called the ‘cuddle hormone’ or the ‘love hormone.’ Oxytocin is associated with happiness, stress relief, and calming sensations.
Hugs can also be beneficial for our physical health. They can help lower blood pressure and heart rate, and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Hugs can also boost immunity by increasing levels of antibodies and infection-fighting cells.
So go ahead and give someone you love a big hug today!
Types of Hugs
On International Hugging Day, let’s take a look at the different types of hugs we share with our loved ones!
A comforting hug is one of the best things in the world. Whether you’re experiencing a happy moment or a difficult time, a hug can make everything feel better. In fact, hugging has even been shown to have health benefits, like reducing stress and improving moods.
There are all sorts of hugs, from simple embraces to big bear hugs. Here are some of the different types of hugs you may encounter:
The One-Armed Hug: This is a quick hug, often given as an expression of appreciation or congratulations.
The Bear Hug: As the name suggests, this is a tight, strong hug – perfect for when you really need a pick-me-up.
The Awkward Hug: We’ve all been there – when you go in for a hug and your partner isn’t quite sure what to do, so it ends up being more awkward than cuddly. But even awkward hugs can be endearing in their own way.
The Long Hug: This is the kind of hug that just feels good and lasts longer than usual – perfect for when you need some extra TLC.
However you choose to celebrate International Hugging Day, make sure to give your loved ones an extra squeeze!
Ideas for Celebrating International Hugging Day
1. Give everyone you know a big hug.
2. Make a special effort to hug someone today who you don’t usually hug.
3. Hold a hugging party and invite all your friends!
4. Go out and give random strangers hugs. Just be careful not to creep them out too much…
5. Get your workplace or school involved by organizing a mass hugging event or competition.
6. Put up flyers or posters around town letting people know it’s International Hugging Day and encourage them to get involved.
7. Spread the love online by using the hashtag #hugday on social media sites like Twitter and Facebook.
Creative Ways to Give a Hug
When it comes to hugging, there are no rules. You can go for a traditional hug, or get creative and try one of these unique ways to show someone you care.
1. The side hug: This is a great option if you’re not quite ready for a full-on embrace. It’s also a good choice if you want to avoid getting too close to someone who might not be comfortable with that level of physical contact.
2. The bear hug: This is a big, hearty hug that’s perfect for conveying all your love and affection. It’s also great for when you just need a really good hug yourself!
3. The secret hug: This is perfect for when you want to show someone how much you care, but don’t want anyone else to know about it. Just sneak up behind the person and give them a quick squeeze. They’ll definitely appreciate the gesture (and the secrecy).
4. The group hug: This is ideal for when there’s more than one person you want to show your affection for. It’s also great for making people feel included and loved. Just gather everyone in and have a big group embrace!
5. The long hug: Sometimes, all you need is a really long, lingering hug. This can be especially comforting after someone has had a tough day or experience. Just hold each other tight and let the moment last as long as it needs to.
How to Stay Safe on International Hugging Day
Every year, on January 21st, people around the world celebrate International Hugging Day. This holiday is all about spreading love and affection through hugs! Although hugging is a great way to show your loved ones how much you care about them, it’s important to be aware of the risks that come with this physical contact.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe on International Hugging Day:
1. Avoid hugging strangers. This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s worth repeating. If you don’t know the person well, or if they make you feel at all uncomfortable, it’s best to steer clear.
2. Wash your hands before and after hugging. This helps to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
3. Don’t force anyone to hug you. Just because it’s International Hugging Day doesn’t mean that everyone wants to participate. Be respectful of personal space and boundaries.
4. Keep it short and sweet. A quick embrace is all that’s needed to express your affection. No need to go for a bear hug!
5. Be aware of your body language. You might not realize it, but the way you stand or approach someone can make them feel threatened or uncomfortable. Be conscious of your nonverbal cues and make sure they match your intentions (i.e., seeking consent before initiating physical contact).
By following these tips, you can ensure that everyone has a pleasant International Hugging Day experience.
International Hugging Day is a great way to recognize the power of physical touch and its positive effects on our mental and emotional wellbeing. Taking part in this holiday can help us become more aware of the importance of hugs, both as a means of expressing love and affection but also as an important source of social support. Expressing your feelings through hugging is something that all people should strive for, regardless of their nationality or culture. So this International Hugging Day take some time off to give out lots of hugs – you won’t regret it!
