Today is Hug Day and I’ve been reflecting on this small word with such a large meaning. A hug is essential on happy days we wish to celebrate. It would be unacceptable not to receive a birthday hug, or not to embrace our family members on Christmas Eve. But hugs are also indispensable on days of dark clouds or storms. Because a hug comforts, soothes, snuggles, and consoles. A hug brings relief, hope, love, and the assurance that everything will be alright.
Scientifically speaking, it has been proven that hugging stimulates oxytocin, a hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released into our bodies by the pituitary glands, reducing our heartbeat rate and cortisol level. Therefore, scientists argue that a prolonged hug can help relax, calm, and reduce anxiety.
But hugging, touching another, is much more than just science or physics. Anyone can touch another’s hand, but few can touch the soul. Anyone can hug another, but few embrace a cause. Anyone can be hugged, but feeling truly embraced is another story…
A baby, right after being removed from the mother’s womb, is immediately hugged, whether by the doctor, nurses, or often, when possible, by the mother herself. This is because the baby feels vulnerable in a new environment where everything is unknown. Being comforted with a hug, the baby feels protected and secure. Generally, this baby will grow up, become an adult, but will continue to feel secure when hugged. Most associations with self-esteem and tactile sensations from the early years of life remain ingrained in our nervous system as adults.
The affections we receive from our parents during our childhood are etched in us, and the hugs we give and receive as adults remind us of this, even if on an unconscious level. Thus, a hug connects us with our most primitive ability to love others and ourselves.
Moreover, a hug stimulates the brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for giving us energy, motivation, and a feeling of wellbeing. A hug also releases endorphins and serotonin into the bloodstream, which causes pleasure and nullifies pain and sadness. A prolonged hug increases serotonin levels, improving mood and creating a sense of happiness.
Ultimately, a hug is a powerful form of communication. It can express and convey what often words cannot. Therefore, hug often and hug a lot.
Thais Clemente
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