Let’s Hug Day – December 3, 2022, history, significance
Let’s Hug Day on December 3 celebrates the warmth and comfort of a hug. Hugs are very versatile. Many of us hug when we wish to share our happiness with family and friends. At the same time, hugs are a staple when we are feeling low and need someone to just hold and console us. Hugs are also the perfect reconciliatory gesture when you want to make up with someone after a fight. Scientifically, hugs are known to release good hormones that can help lower your blood pressure and stress levels.
History of Let’s Hug Day
Hugging has probably been around since humans discovered what a delight it is to embrace and wrap arms around each other. However it began, it continues to be a way that friends and family members show affection to each other.
And it is interesting to note that the hug is a universal form of showing affection. While certain forms of greeting might change based on culture, like the handshake or the bow or the high five, the hug seems to be universal among almost all cultures in places all over the world.
What was probably known all along but not able to be scientifically proven is the fact that hugs are necessary for humans to thrive. This is especially true for babies after they are born. Children who do not receive hugs and cuddles when they are small usually fail to thrive and grow in the way healthy, well-loved children will.
And adults can certainly benefit from hugs also. In fact, many studies have been made to reveal that hugs can be healthy not only for the mental and emotional benefits, but hugging is also a helpful way to promote better physical health.
LET’S HUG DAY TIMELINE
1560s
The Word ‘Hug’ is Used
The English language records the first instance of ‘hug’ being used as a verb.
1986
National Hugging Day
Kevin Zaborney commemorates the first National Hugging Day to encourage people to show affection to each other in public.
2018
Hugs Help Adolescents Mentally
Researchers at Mulawarman University in Indonesia discover that hug therapy helps adolescents suffering from depression.
2019
Hugs Benefit Beyond Superficiality
Hugging helps increase feelings of trust, love, friendship, and affection.
HOW TO CELEBRATE LET’S HUG DAY
Hug your loved ones
This is your day to show your loved ones how much they mean to you in every sense of the word. Start by giving a hug to set the tone. This is also the day to make up with someone you have had a falling out with. When words fail, hugs do the job of conveying what you are feeling.
Offer a hug to a stranger
As you are going about your day, try giving a hug to a stranger, and, of course, ask them if it’s okay before you do. While it is the official Let’s Hug Day, you still do not want to upset anyone by giving out unsolicited affection.
Give hugs regularly
Hugging should not be limited to just one day. You should give and take hugs throughout the year as it allows you to strengthen your affections for others. And why should humans have all the fun? Hug your pets and plants too!
5 FACTS ABOUT HUGS THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND
It increases immunity
Yes, hugging can help increase your immunity and help you fight against viral/bacterial ailments.
Hug for a healthy heart
Research shows that people who receive regular hugs have lower heart rates and blood pressure compared to those who do not.
Good for babies/children
Babies and children who receive hugs have higher levels of oxytocin, which can strengthen their immune systems.
Reduces fears
Hugging someone or something can help reduce fears one may have in life.
General happiness
Hugging releases serotonin and oxytocin, both of which are feel-good hormones that make people happier overall.
WHY WE LOVE LET’S HUG DAY
It’s a celebration of hugs
Hugs are one of the first comforting actions known to humankind. We reach out to hug people when we are feeling high or low. Hugs are a way to assure someone that you are there for them through thick and thin, come what may.
It’s a celebration of good health
Numerous research studies have pointed to the immense benefits that hugging has on our health mentally and physically. A hug can help keep our hearts healthy while also increasing our immunity and ability to fight infections. Hugs can also help reduce feelings of loneliness, depression, and stress.
It’s a celebration of happiness
Hugs and happiness go hand in hand. There are no two ways about it. Period.
