Hug It Out

Remember when parents used to force fighting children to "hug it out?" There's some method to that madness, as it turns out.

Apparently, hugging doesn't just feel nice for both you and the recipient of your affections, but there are physiological and psychological benefits, too!

According to a University of North Carolina study, hugging for 20-seconds or more increases oxytocin levels, which reduces anxiety and increases feelings of relaxation.  So basically, you're helping lower stress levels.

Those long, lingering hugs also help boost your immunity against colds and upper respiratory infections, according to a 2015 study in Psychological Science.

Furthermore, getting even just *one* hug a day is associated with boosting your mood, says this research study.

And touch in general, of which hugging is probably one of the most socially-acceptable forms, can improve heart health, reduce existential fears, convey emotions efficiently, and even reduce physical pain.  Some have suggested that it is also therapeutic for marriage relationships, which is why Hubbs and I are committing to being more intentional about hugging.

Of course, I realize that there are limits to how long you should hug a colleague or an acquaintance; you probably don't want to enter into awkward territory with an embrace that goes beyond the acceptable three-second duration in professional and casual contexts.  I also don't recommend that you lock anyone in your arms for 20 seconds without express consent or a shared understanding, even if it is a spouse, a child, or a very close loved one.  But given that some of these studies aren't referring specifically to lengthy hugs, it's fair to conclude that even a short squeeze may be sufficient contact to generate health benefits.

Here is one article that details the benefits of hugging your children, specifically.  I realize that once your littles become not-so-little adolescents, maybe their receptiveness to hugs decreases because your "cool factor" also takes a nosedive.  Even still, make that effort.  Maybe you won't be able to squeeze in eight hugs, but if you can even coax one or two out of your kiddo each day, it certainly wouldn't hurt!

Bottom line - hugging is good for you, and like many things, it sometimes gets forgotten about in the hustle bustle of a busy day or week or life.  But for the sake of everyone involved, let's hate a little less, and hug a little more!  🤗