Day 52 of 365 Days of Silver ~~ A Hug Can Save Your Life

“I have learned that there is more power in a good strong hug than in a thousand meaningful words.”
Ann Hood

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I like a good hug. And I mean that. A good hug.

Ever notice how some people hug?

For some it’s this leaden, stiff, awkward thing that makes you wish you’d played Candy Crush instead.

For some people it’s that sort of a third of a hug with–one–two–pats on the back (what is that about?) and then it’s done.

For some it’s like that frat boy thing–you know where they fling themselves at each other and bounce off back again.

For some it’s an odd, sort of sideways hug, leaning in and then dos-à-dosing away again.

No, no, no! I’m talking about a real hug.

This is the way you hug. Approach each other arms outstretched, walk into each other’s arms. Lean into them so your chests–and most importantly, your hearts–meet. Close your eyes. Hug strongly. Breath deep. Hold it. Hold them. Ten seconds at least. Go for twenty.

Because something happens then. Something magick. Something powerful. Guards and walls come down, if only for a few seconds. Heart messages are passed. Energy–often healing energy–is exchanged.

Hugs are healthy.

Dr. Mercola says that, “This may very well be the “hug threshold” that allows your body to produce ample amounts of oxytocin, which is released in response to physical touch. The neuropeptide oxytocin, released by your pituitary gland, is a naturally occurring hormone in your body with incredibly powerful, health-giving properties.”

Frequent hugs have been proven to lower risk of heart disease, reduce stress, fight fatigue, boost the immune system, fight infections and ease depression.

So the next time you go to hug someone, go for it (or forget it). Really hug them. Let your hearts fall into rhythm.

It’s a powerful thing! And I am so grateful for hugs!

HUGS,
B.G. Thomas

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photograph by Dan Skinner ~ used by permission