“Hugging is healthy: it helps the body's immunity system, it
keeps you healthier, it cures depression, it reduces stress, it
induces sleep, it's invigorating, it's rejuvenating, it has no
unpleasant side effects, and hugging is nothing less than a
miracle drug” - Unknown -
Sometimes life gets so hectic that our nerves are frazzled, our
tempers are short, and we feel totally disconnected from those
that are important to us.
Want to know a simple way to fix that? Reach out and hug
someone.
According to some research, we need about 7 hugs a day to be
healthy. Most of us don't get that in a month. Mark Katz, M.D.,
Member of L.A. Shanti's Advisory Board says:
"How important are hugging and physical and emotional contact
for people affected by life - threatening illnesses? In my work,
I have found that people who receive nurturing maintain a better
outlook on their situation -- and historically, positive
attitude is an important factor in long-term survival. Hugging
and physical contact make a difference in a person's frame of
mind, and may help their medical condition. Best of all, hugging
has no side effects and does not require a trip to the doctor.”
So, what happens if you're not a hugging family? Start by simply
touching your family – a pat on the back, a light touch on the
arm. As you receive permission and encouragement, increase your
touches to include a “side hug”. Just remember to always respect
a person's boundaries. Here are some tips on how to hug
depending on what you want to communicate by Kathleen Keating,
R.A., M.N., author of The Hug Therapy Book: The Bear Hug--ideal
for two individuals of disproportionate sizes and for saying,
"You're terrific," or "You can count on me". The A-Frame--Brief
embrace ideal for little-known relatives and situations
requiring a bit of formality. All of the hugging takes place
above the neck. This hug communicates polite caring or detached
warmth. Great for new huggers. The Cheek Hug--A tender hug that
can be executed sitting or standing. This hug says "I'm sorry
you're disappointed," or is ideal to share joy or greet an
elderly relative. The Group Hug--Great for good friends sharing
an activity or project. Group hugs communicate support,
security, affection, unity and universal belonging. If you
really need a hug and don't have the permission from your family
members to hug them, go visit an old folk's home and start
hugging the residents. It will not only help you, but it might
even increase and improve the lives of those you hug!
Darlene Hull www.mom-defrazzler.com
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