Hugs are good for you!

So, what were your responses to the last post? I have to say a huge thank you for all the comments, made great reading.

Personally speaking I love hugs. I love to hug and be hugged and can find it quite odd when I’m suddenly in an environment where people are more reserved in their greetings. I guess I am lucky because in most of the circles I move in hugging is commonplace.

In fact I realised at the end of my last relationship that one of the things that was missing for me was hugs, they were pretty rare. Not that hugs are limited to close relationships or friendships, it is certainly becoming more acceptable to hug when you meet someone or say goodbye.

And best of all, did you know that hugs are scientifically proven to be good for you?

Hugging increases oxytocin levels, which not only increases bonding, it reduces stress hormones and blood pressure.

So if your heart doesn’t cry out for hugs, hug for your health!

I think it’s true, hugging does give a deeper connection to a person.Though if you are going to hug, do it properly and from the heart. None of this standing 3 feet away and putting your arms around the other persons shoulders. That is just going through the motions and is very inauthentic. Do you want to come across as a fake? How do you think the other person will feel? It’s the hugging equivalent of a limp handshake!

Yes there are situations when it’s not appropriate, and culture will influence this. Often in a business situation you will not hug when you first meet someone, though often it becomes acceptable once you know each other, though I find many people still don’t due to the environment.

Certainly in a social situation I might not hug a new person hello, but I will hug them goodbye if they are a hug type person.

Go on, go and hug somebody today