National Hugging Day is celebrated each year on January 21 and was launched on January 21, 1986, in Clio, Michigan by Rev Kevin Zaborney.
Strangely, this day is copyrighted.
One would think that hugs should be given freely and without recourse.
Regardless, we are thankful to Rev Zaborney for creating this day and would love to thank him with a great, big hug.
Studies have shown that human contact has many health benefits.
It has been found that human contact improves both psychological and physical development. Hugging can also help build a good immune system, decrease the risk of heart disease, and decrease levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, in women.
It has been shown that a couple who hugs for 20 seconds has higher levels of oxytocin, and that those who were in a loving relationship exhibited a higher increase.
According to the American Psychosomatic Society, a hug or 10 minutes of holding hands with a loving, romantic partner can help reduce stress and its harmful physical effects.
In a study, adults who had no contact with people had a higher blood pressure reading and a higher heart rate.
Other studies have indicated that the touch of a friend might not be as helpful as the touch of a partner but should not be avoided.
The idea of National Hugging Day is to encourage everyone to hug family and friends more often.
Whether you hug a family member or a friend or a stranger, the mental and physical health benefits are the same.
So celebrate today by giving hugs to your family, friends and loved ones.
You’ll love the warm feeling you get.
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