Are you looking for a sweet reason to give someone a hug? Look no further, because Hug Holiday, celebrated annually, offers you just that opportunity—to embrace your loved ones, to make them feel your love and affection. This day is considered special because its aim is not only to express love, but also to bring to the world the health benefits hidden behind it.
What is Hug Holiday?
Hug Holiday is a special day celebrated every year to explain the importance of hugging people. The purpose of this day is to spread love and affection. It was started by the Hugs 4 Health Foundation, especially to provide emotional support to the elderly, who often feel lonely.
Hugging is not just a physical act, but a lovely way to connect from the heart. It reduces stress, increases happiness, and strengthens relationships. Hug Holiday reminds us that even a small embrace can bring a smile to someone's face.
These are the amazing benefits of hugging
You might be wondering what difference a small hug makes? But scientific studies have proven that hugging not only deepens emotional connection but also affects the health of the body and mind.
1. Reduces Stress
Hugging releases the hormone oxytocin in the body, also known as the 'love hormone'. This hormone reduces stress and wards off anxiety.
2. Controls Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
During an embrace, a person's blood pressure and heart rate normalize, which can reduce the risk of heart-related diseases.
3. Strengthens the Immune System
People who hug or get hugged regularly have been found to have better immunity. Such people recover from illnesses faster.
4. Improves Sleep
Hugging reduces stress and increases oxytocin, which improves sleep quality.
How to celebrate Hug Holiday?
1. Hug your loved ones
Hug your parents, siblings, friends, children, or spouse without any reason. This will not only make them happy, but also make your day special.
2. Give affection to the elderly
This day was started for the elderly. So, why not meet grandparents or the elderly in the neighborhood and give them a warm hug? This will make them feel emotional security and affection.
3. Give love to animals too
If you have pets, thank them by hugging them on this day. Spending time with pets is a great source of mental peace.
4. Adopt in the office or workplace as well
If your company's environment is casual and friendly, share a 'work-friendly hug' with your colleagues. This strengthens the positive energy and the spirit of cooperation within the team.
History of Hug Holiday
The history of Hug Holiday is quite interesting. It was started by the Hugs 4 Health Foundation, especially for the elderly, so that they could feel emotional support and affection. The foundation believes that hugging not only improves a person's mood, but is also beneficial for mental and physical health. Over time, this initiative spread to many countries and now millions of people celebrate this day with joy and love every year.
What does the research say?
- A 20-second hug increases the level of oxytocin in your body.
- This hormone helps in protecting against heart diseases, controlling weight, and reducing depression.
- Hugging increases the feeling of social connection and relieves loneliness.
Hug Holiday is not just a day, but a beautiful feeling that reminds us that a small embrace can brighten someone's day. It is a symbol of love, affection, and emotional connection that also strengthens our mental and physical health. So, let's make this day special by hugging someone—without any reason, just for love.
