Today Is…National Hugging Day!

I love getting hugs and giving hugs. Hugs have been part of being human for many thousands of years. Recent studies have shown the power of hugging that when couples engage in 10 minutes of hugging, the kind that is deep, caring and loving, found that oxytocin was released which leads to a calming feeling, contentment and stress reduction. This is the hormone that bonds relationships. Additionally, the stress hormone, cortisol, was reduced.

Years ago, Lee Shapiro (aka: The Hugging Judge), used to go around giving hugs because he realized the power of hugs. It aids in growth and self-esteem as well. Healing through hugs also will happen. I remember reading a study on how animals that had no physical contact when they were young ended up with deep emotional problems as adults and withdrawn.

"We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth."-Virginia Satir
(Huffington Post)

I also loved what this guy did. He stood on a street corner with a sign that said, "FREE HUGS". It'll make you smile. Check it out.- Alan