January 21 is National Hugging Day, a day to celebrate the simple act of hugging and its effects on our physical and mental well-being. This special holiday was started in 1986 by Rev. Kevin Zaborney, who wanted to promote the power of hugs to express affection, love, gratitude, and friendship without saying anything!
The purpose behind this holiday is for everyone out there—friends, family, or even strangers—to hug each other for no reason. The idea behind it is that if we give more hugs in general, it will increase feelings of positivity within ourselves and those around us, helping us build stronger relationships while also growing happiness levels!
Hugs have been proven repeatedly through science that they are not only beneficial physically but emotionally too, releasing hormones such as oxytocin which can make us happier overall. Hugs reduce stress levels (due to cortisol dropping) while making you feel safe & secure due to serotonin being released into your body – both these hormones work together when hugging, so you gain maximum benefit from them! They even help lower blood pressure & heart rate, which can be great news, especially when anxiety might be high due to external pressures like work/study deadlines.
Not only do hugs make people feel good, but research has shown that getting hugged regularly may improve our health significantly over long periods – reducing risks related to diseases such as stroke or cancer by up 40%. On top of these physical benefits, there’s an emotional aspect too: regular contact via hugging leading lower rates of depression and loneliness, plus higher self-esteem. So why not share some extra warmth today? After all, what better way to show someone how much you care about them than giving them a big squeeze?!
There are many ways to get involved on National Hugging Day: host group gatherings outside public places like parks allowing those who don’t know each other well enough yet still join forces to create something beautiful together; start online campaigns to encourage others to spread joy throughout their communities; organize virtual events friends/family abroad stay connected despite the distance between countries. The possibilities are endless here, so find something suitable just right for yourself! And most importantly, remember to let go of any inhibitions and embrace freedom associated with expressing genuine emotion through human connection – because ultimately, what matters most here is reconnecting loved ones’ hearts and minds once again realizing the importance of loving kindness 🤗
