5 Ways that Hugging is Good for You

Source: briberywithsmiles.tumblr.com via Joana on Pinterest

Have you hugged anyone today?

You should...it could be good for your health!

Besides being Martin Luther King Junior Day (a day that  many people across the country are observing as a day of service, by the way), this is National Hugging Day.

Just a bit of googling will turn up doctors and other experts talking about the positive benefits of hugging.

Here are five that I found, according to psychiatrist Dr. Michael Lavin:

1) Hugging shows affection and love.  It's one of the best ways to physically demonstrate to someone that you care about them.

2)  Hugging may help lower blood pressure.

3)  Hugging may cause the release of the hormone oxytocin, which medical experts think may help people feel better.

4)  Hugging may elevate your mood. Says Dr. Lavin, "Having that physical connection with someone else can make you feel like you're not alone and it offers you a level of support."

5)  Hugging is good for your family.  Family experts say your children and your spouse need your hugs, and studies show that women need them even more than men for a variety of reasons.

So, hug someone today.  But make sure the person doesn't mind being hugged! There are few things more awkward than an unwelcome hug.

Also...and this is just my opinion...make sure if you hug someone of the opposite sex who is not related to you,  that it's appropriate. You may want to stay on the safe side by giving a brief side hug.  Also, the sad fact of sexual abuse means there are many occasions where you should NOT hug or touch children. 

But that's a caveat.  I'm pretty sure you know a lot of people...definitely your children and your spouse...who would love a hug!

This is one of my favorite hugging pictures ever.  I was taking a picture of my husband with our grandson Payton, when our little friend Brielle ran into the picture to hug Payton goodbye.  Payton was a little overwhelmed, but I don't think he minded at all! :)