We need 4 hugs a day for survival, 8 for maintenance and 12 for growth, according to psychotherapist Virginia Satir... and science agrees. Research shows that a loving touch lowers blood pressure, relieves anxiety, reduces stress, strengthens our immune system, helps us bond with others, and boosts our physical and emotional health.
So why not give it a try? I did...
I learned this years ago and had myself a little experiment. My family and I were not huggers but, one day as I arrived for my usual Sunday visit, I told them about
reading this 4 hugs for maintenance thing and wanted to give it a try. So we did. It was a little awkward at first, especially as an adult hugging my adult brothers, aunts and grandparents for "no special reason," but it stuck. Now, when I go home for a visit and forget to hug someone - even my very manly, 38-year-old, 6'2" brother - I get a "hey, where's my hug!?" These days, we all hug to say hello as well as bid farewell - that's 2 hugs per person, really adding them up! Not to mention how incredibly priceless each and every one of those hugs has become now that my grandfather has passed; I'm so grateful I took the opportunity when I did. When I picture him now, I see him with a big smile and arms wide open, waiting for his hug. <3
Your turn. Hug someone today, hug everyone. Hold your honey's hand. Rub your child's back. Place your hand on your friend's arm as you talk with them. Get a massage. Give a massage. Not only is it wonderful for your health and theirs, but who couldn't use a little reconnecting in this disconnected world.
Let me know how it goes!
So why not give it a try? I did...
I learned this years ago and had myself a little experiment. My family and I were not huggers but, one day as I arrived for my usual Sunday visit, I told them about
reading this 4 hugs for maintenance thing and wanted to give it a try. So we did. It was a little awkward at first, especially as an adult hugging my adult brothers, aunts and grandparents for "no special reason," but it stuck. Now, when I go home for a visit and forget to hug someone - even my very manly, 38-year-old, 6'2" brother - I get a "hey, where's my hug!?" These days, we all hug to say hello as well as bid farewell - that's 2 hugs per person, really adding them up! Not to mention how incredibly priceless each and every one of those hugs has become now that my grandfather has passed; I'm so grateful I took the opportunity when I did. When I picture him now, I see him with a big smile and arms wide open, waiting for his hug. <3
Your turn. Hug someone today, hug everyone. Hold your honey's hand. Rub your child's back. Place your hand on your friend's arm as you talk with them. Get a massage. Give a massage. Not only is it wonderful for your health and theirs, but who couldn't use a little reconnecting in this disconnected world.
Let me know how it goes!