Therapy of Hugs
Sometimes all you can do is hug a friend tightly...
It is the 21st day of Christmas and I hope it's beginning to feel like Christmas from your side and if not do not fret, Santa won't skip you❤️❤️
Permit me to speak so formal but Hugs are simply underrated in our society and almost gently sidelined for people in a relationship but oftentimes we forget that it is a basic need for us all, a simple hug to your friend, siblings, family friends, colleagues may go a long way to help their mental health. And although the society may frown on people who crave for hugs I beg to differ; it's a sign of their humanity without which, we are lost anyways. Some people say you can decipher the status of a relationship through a hug and it varies from friendly, casual, romantic or formal.
In a world that often values independence and self-reliance, it is easy to overlook the simple yet profound power of human touch. Hugs have a way of breaking down barriers and walls and reminding us of our shared humanity. The therapy of Hugs is a powerful tool that can bring people together and promote overall well-being in the lives of those around us and can help us build stronger more compassionate communities.
A hug is a universal gesture of affection, comfort, and support that involves physically embracing another person, typically by wrapping one's arms around them. This simple yet powerful act of physical touch has been shown to have a profound impact on both physical and emotional well-being. “When we hug, our bodies release oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of happiness, relaxation, and bonding. Hugs have also been found to lower blood pressure, heart rate, and stress levels, while also reducing pain. Whether it's a romantic partner, family member, friend, or even a pet, hugs have the power to transcend words and convey love, empathy, and understanding in a way that is both intuitive and essential to human connection.” In clear terms, hugs makes everything better or don't you think so?
A big bear hug on the other hand is a warm and affectionate gesture that involves a tight, full-body squeeze, often characterized by a strong and firm embrace. This type of hug is typically associated with feelings of comfort, reassurance, and joy, and is often used to express love, appreciation, and support. Unlike casual or formal hugs, big bear hugs are often spontaneous and enthusiastic, involving a complete wrapping of the arms around the recipient, and sometimes even lifting them off the ground.
Hugs are universal language because they convey our emotions and intentions through nonverbal communication because sometimes our mouth may be too heavy to talk but a heart just needs to be hugged, they are widely recognized and understood across all cultures, they express empathy, compassion and emotional connection from I love you to I'm here or even to I ghat you. they have symbolic meanings that transcend language barriers.
Few days ago, Santa brought my brother to me. He surprised me with an unplanned visit. The spontaneous overflow of pent up feelings topped with frustration and helplessness that I didn't even know existed somewhere in my heart came crumbling down as I fliged myself at him and was engulfed in a hug with tears running down my eyes. Some will say it's simply because I'm a big baby or a cry baby but the truth is that a simple hug can just be the best medicine for a heavy heart and sometimes it comes with a consolation. In my own case, I felt embraced by my entire family by just a hug!! Many atimes we think we are sad, depressed or gloomy but all we may need may just be a simple hug and booommm that feelings disappear from our mental sphere. So why shy away from it, why withold something essential to our lives simply because it seems trivial.
Hugs and it's benefits to our lives cannot be overemphasized. From instantly uplifting our moods, to bringing beautiful smiles on our face to inspiring and motivating. Hugs can help reduce stress and anxiety by releasing tension and promoting relaxation. And also increase feelings of empathy and compassion, promoting a sense of connection and understanding.
But I must say it's not enough to just give a hug, the how is important because I for one wouldn't want to break my back just by receiving a hug from someone 😔😔
The rules of giving a good hug involves a combination of physical touch, emotional connection and intentional presence. here are some tips to help you master the art of giving a good hug; Start by making gentle contact with the person often with a light touch on the arm or shoulder wrap your arms around the person making sure to envelope them full, apply gentle pressure being mindful of the person's comfort level, hold the hug for a few seconds allowing the person to feel the comfort of the hug. Show empathy and understanding through your hug. Even to yourself dear reader, strive to hug yourself, show the same kindness you pour to others to yourself, hug yourself tightly with reassurance haven known that charity begins at home.
It's so sad that some of us view hugging others as weak, being too needy or something not important but the reason for this newsletter is so we understand how much a little hug can save someone's day. Sometimes all you can do is hug a friend tightly and wish that their pain could be transferred by touch to your own emotional hard drive. Such is the life we live.
As much as I love hugs and advocate that people should show their emotions more, it is also important that you take the cognizance of the other person. Will they accept your hugs or you'll be invading their personal space? The hug is a mutual feeling and shouldn't be one sided. It is important to note that you have to always respect the person's personal boundaries and physical comfort level, be mindful of cultural differences and nuances surrounding physical touch and holding, practice self care and prioritize your own emotional and physical well-being insuring it comes from place of love and care because no matter how you wish to embellish it, you can only give what you have genuinely.
The beauty of Hugs lies in its ability to provide comfort, heal the heart, create and foster connection amongst people, promote physical health and promote self care. Whether we are giving or receiving a hug, this gesture has the ability to transcend words and speak directly to our heart. As we navigate the complexities of life let us not underestimate the power of a hug to bring us closer together, to heal our wounds and to remind us of our shared humanity.
As I conclude this issue I invite you to reflect on the power of hugs in your own life, how have hugs imparted your relationships, your mood and your overall well-being?. I encourage you to share your own hugs stories and experiences with me and to continue spreading the joy and love of hopes to those around you.
Till I write again I leave you you with hugs that warms your heart and smiles to brighten your day. 🫂 ❤️
Cheers 🥂 🥂
Lena (Kiri kiri star ✨ ✨ ✨)
You said it so well! Hugs are underrated, but it shouldn’t be because it makes all things better.
Hugs are indeed underrated