Let’s Hug Day

Let’s Hug Day is celebrated on December 3rd to encourage the embrace of a warm hug this season. Now why should we hug someone today? What is the importance of Hug Day? What are the origins of such a holiday that highlights a simple function of affection? 

National Hug Day was created in 1986 by Kevin Zaborney to encourage people to show affection to each other in public spaces. Obviously, you are not expected to go up to random strangers and hug them once if you're not comfortable and if you didn’t get their consent to hug them. Consent is always important, and you should always ask someone for permission out of respect. That would just be weird and kinda awkward for you and the other person.

Did you know, “The word ‘hug’ is thought to come from the Old Norse word ‘hugga’, which means “to comfort”.” (National Today) By comforting our loved ones or a stranger we can not only make them feel better but actually improve their health. Did you know that your body produces different hormones and the ones that make you feel good and happy are called serotonin and oxytocin. These chemicals are produced when you hug others therefore, making others feel happier and better.  Who would’ve known that hugs can be so powerful? 

Here are 5 fun facts about hugs that you or may not have known: 

1. Increased immunity: It can help your immune system so you can fight those pesky viruses. 

1. Healthy heart: According to research it can lower heart rates and blood pressure if received regularly. 

1. Benefits babies/kids: For kids who tend to get sick and pass it to their parents, the more hugs the more oxytocin produced, which helps strengthen the immune system. 

1. Reduces your fears: Hugging a person or even an object in times of fear inducing situations can actually reduce fear, hopefully making the situation less stress inducing. 

1. Happiness: Like I said before you release your “happy” hormones aka serotonin and oxytocin that make you feel happy. 

References: 

- Kiani, T. (2021, October 29). Let’s Hug Day. National Today. https://nationaltoday.com/lets-hug-day/