There is no denying that physical touch is a basic human need. A research states that babies who were not touched or held often enough, grow up to be emotionally and mentally unstable. As we grow older, the need for touch doesn’t necessarily go away.

Rather it evolves into something more than just a mere necessity.

There is something special about the power of hugs that has the power to mend wounds and resolve conflicts. The warmth and comfort that we feel through a hug of a loved one is simply incomparable.

This is why World Hug Day is celebrated every year on January 21 to acknowledge the strength of hugs and the emotional connection that they bring.

The History of World Hug Day

Despite the fact that an embrace can convey a thousand words with a single gesture, World Hug Day only has a brief history and was only established in 1986.

The origin of World Hug Day is still uncertain, but it is believed to have started in Caro, Michigan, when Kevin Zaborney decided to focus on giving people an excuse to start hugging.

After years of effort and continuous campaigning, Zaborney finally convinced the government to announce January 21 as National Hug Day.

Since then, the day has become an international event, with millions of people globally spreading love, kindness, and positivity through warm embraces with friends, family, and even strangers.

The Benefits of a Good Hug

Hugging is one of the most natural ways to present love and affection to a person. It can also provide various benefits, some of which include:.

1. Reduces stress and anxiety

A hug is known to reduce the stress and anxiety levels in a person. A research study has shown that hugging for at least 20 seconds releases oxytocin, also known as the ‘cuddle hormone’.

This hormone helps in reducing cortisol levels, which is the hormone that is responsible for causing stress in the body.

2. Strengthens Your Immune System

Another advantage of hugging is that it helped to boost our immune system.

A research study revealed that physical touch and a human connection such as hugging increases the release of white blood cells in our body which is responsible for fighting against diseases.

3. Enhances emotional connections

Physical touch through hugs helps to connect emotionally, and this connection is then related to how oxytocin hormone is being released in the body.

This hormone is the reason why hugging feels good because it helps in generating feelings of warmth and happiness, giving a sense of security, and promoting bonding and trust.

4. Improves Mental Health

Mental health is a significant concern for most people worldwide. Research suggests that hugs can also play an essential role in improving the mental health of a person.

Physical touch via a hug can positively impact a person’s mood and overcome feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression.

The Different Types of Hugs

Not all hugs are the same, and people use different types of hugs to send different messages. Here are the common types of hugs that you can receive or give to express what you feel:.

1. The Bear Hug

Also known as the tight hug, this type of embrace is for someone we really missed and want to reconnect with them. It’s a comforting hug that assures a person that they are loved.

2. The A-Frame Hug

This type of embrace is perfect for those who you have critically become vulnerable with. This hug is safe and secure but doesn’t stay for too long.

3. The Side Hug

This hug is more common among acquaintances or friends who want to show affection without crossing the boundary. It’s not as warm and intimate as other hugs, but it sends a message that the person cares about you.

4. The Back Hug

A back hug is usually given to show support to someone during a difficult time. It helps create emotional support and gives a sense of security.

The Meaning Behind Hug Colors

Aside from different types, there are also colors that represent the sentiment behind a good hug. When accompanied by the right colors, hugs can be more meaningful and impactful.

1. Red

This color represents the love and passion that drives the hug.

2. Pink

Pink represents sweetness, kindness, and affection.

3. Blue

Blue represents serenity and calmness, often referred to as a “healing” color.

4. Yellow

Yellow is a color that signifies joy, warmth, and happiness, promoting feelings of positivity and hope.

Spread the Love this Hug Day

Although everyday people are always in need of hugs, special occasions like World Hug Day call out to us to spread the love through unbridled warmth and affection.

So, come this January 21st, let us all participate in World Hug Day by sharing the love with everyone around us.

In conclusion

Now you know why hugs are so powerful and why World Hug Day exists. Hugs can make people feel alive, energized and happy when words fail to express what we feel.

So, spread love and kindness in the world by giving a hug to someone you cherish this Hug Day.