How To Embrace National Hugging Day

Many holidays and events are celebrated around the year, including National Hugging Day, a special event in January dedicated to hugs. National Hugging Day can be a way to connect with those you love. Learning more about the history behind this event and ways to celebrate it can be a meaningful way to celebrate the new year and the month of January. 

When is hug day, and what is it all about?

In the hustle and bustle of a modern time, where screens often take precedence over face-to-face conversations, individuals may crave genuine connections and meaningful interactions. National Hugging Day, which falls on January 21st every year, serves as a gentle reminder of the simple yet profound act of hugging and the warmth it can bring to the hearts of many. Hugging Day is not only about wrapping arms around one another; it’s a celebration of the emotional sustenance a heartfelt hug can offer. 

While a hug might seem like a fleeting moment, science has revealed the remarkable impact it can have on mental and emotional well-being. Oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress, has been shown to be released during hugs, fostering trust and connection between people. As you explore how to embrace National Hugging Day, it can be beneficial to investigate the science, benefits, and creative ways to celebrate this day, reaffirming that a hug is more than a physical gesture. Often, it symbolizes love, empathy, and the profound connection people seek in their lives. 

Celebrating International National Hug Day

National Hugging Day can be a joyful occasion to embrace not only your loved ones but also the profound sense of connection that often comes with a warm hug. Below are creative and meaningful ways to celebrate this special day, physically or virtually. 

Hug your loved ones

Start the day by hugging your family members and close friends. A heartfelt hug may convey love and appreciation better than words, which can nurture relationships. However, ensure all hugs are consensual, as some people may be uncomfortable with being touched. 

Share virtual hugs

In an increasingly interconnected world, distance may not hinder the celebration of National Hugging Day. You can send virtual hugs or a hugging emoji to show appreciation to loved ones via video calls, voice messages, or heartfelt texts. The warmth of your words and gestures can bridge the distance gap wherever you are.              

Hug your pets

Furry companions are often willing recipients of affectionate embraces and can be soft to the touch. The unconditional affection of a dog or cat may brighten up your worst days.

Spread hug-related kindness

National Hugging Day is also an opportunity to engage in random acts of kindness. Offer warm compliments, write heartfelt letters, or send virtual hugs to acquaintances and colleagues. These “small” acts may brighten someone’s day regardless of their situation. 

Embrace self-hugging

When giving love to others, turning inward and offering yourself self-love and self-care can also be beneficial. Hug yourself as a symbol of self-compassion and a moment of gratitude. 

Respect personal boundaries

While National Hugging Day is all about sharing warmth and connection, not everyone is comfortable with physical touch. Always obtain consent and respect personal boundaries. Ask if someone is open to a hug, and if they decline, express your appreciation in other ways. For example, you might write them a letter, compliment them, or perform an act of service for them. 

Connect with a hug

In some cases, a sincere hug can be enough to reconnect with friends and loved ones after a long time away from each other. It can also be a sign that you’re forgiven after a misunderstanding with someone. Consider using hugs as a gesture to show forgiveness, appreciation, and warmth when you are reconnecting with people you love. 

The science and healing power of hugs

Researchers have looked at the healing powers behind hugging for years. Below are some of their findings. 

The love hormone and stress reduction

The benefits of hugs are backed up by science.

So, every time you hug, you also share a moment of stress relief and emotional connection. 

Fostering emotional bonds

Beyond their physical aspect, hugs are instrumental in forging emotional connections between individuals. They can create a real sense of trust, connection, and emotional support. Numerous studies have revealed the psychological benefits of hugging in terms of strengthening relationships. Hugging is a powerful tool for building and fortifying these bonds, making connections more profound and meaningful.

The power of hugs for mental well-being

Hugs offer a unique blend of stress reduction and enhanced emotional connection, contributing to improved mental well-being. They may play a role in helping you find fulfillment through your relationships with others. Combining the stress-reducing effects of oxytocin with the sense of trust and connection that hugs foster can be nurturing for overall mental well-being.

The benefits of ongoing hugging 

While National Hugging Day is one specific day to celebrate hugs, their benefits are not limited to a single day. To support your mental and emotional health, embrace consensual hugging as a year-round practice. This gesture of love, comfort, and support is a way to foster connections throughout your life.

Hug alternatives for the pandemic and COVID-19 safety 

As society navigates the unique challenges of the pandemic, the traditional bear hug may take a backseat for safety reasons. However, you can have a lighthearted laugh with friends and show your appreciation with some of these hugging alternatives:

• Air hugs: Imagine you’re blowing a kiss, but instead, you’re sending an “air hug.” Extend your arms and give the air a big squeeze to hug your loved ones remotely.
• Virtual hug GIFs: In the digital age, GIFs offer a playful way to send virtual hugs. Find a heartwarming hug GIF and share it with your friends and family.
• Hand hearts: Create a heart shape with your hands and share it in photos or videos to symbolize your affection and send love to those you miss.
• Hug in a box: Create a gift package for a friend or family member that provides laughter, comfort, and warmth. You can bond over these gifts together at a later date, too.
• Hug-themed art: Get creative and draw, paint, or craft a piece representing a hug. Share your artwork with loved ones as a symbol of your affection.
• Virtual hug challenges: Organize a virtual “hug challenge” with friends and family. See who can create the most creative virtual hug ideas and share them via video call.
• Heartfelt messages: In some cases, a heartfelt message can be as comforting as a hug. Words of affirmation through text, emails, or voice messages may make someone smile.
• Hug-yourself dance: Put on your favorite music and have a dance party, incorporating self-hugging moves to celebrate self-love and positivity.

While you may be physically apart, these fun and lighthearted alternatives may remind you that the spirit of a hug can be carried through various creative means. Find innovative ways to share love and connection, even in challenging times.

Support options for loneliness and social challenges 

In some cases, people may not have a support system available for a hug. In these cases, having someone to talk to about loneliness and social challenges can be helpful. A therapist can offer guidance for finding a chosen family or people to connect with for National Hugging Day. However, if you face barriers to in-person therapy, it may be more advantageous to try an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. 

Online therapy can often fit in with the demands of modern life. Whether you’re looking for solace on National Hugging Day or navigating the complexities of each day, online therapy allows you to schedule sessions to accommodate your schedule, ensuring support is available when you seek it. In addition, online therapy removes geographical boundaries, offering access to qualified therapists regardless of your location. Being able to contact a therapist from anywhere in the world allows you to sustain your mental well-being, even during hectic moments. 

Research underscores the effectiveness of online therapy in addressing a wide variety of mental health concerns. Online therapists employ evidence-based techniques and therapeutic approaches, ensuring the quality of care is on par with in-person sessions. According to research, online therapy offers the same level of care and attention as traditional in-person therapy, making a video call or messaging platform a valuable tool.