Happy National Hugging Day

In case you didn’t know, today is National Hugging day; a day where people are encouraged to show more emotion in public. It was created by Rev. Kevin Zaborney in 1986. He chose January 21 because it’s midway between Christmas and Valentine’s day, a period where people are at an emotional low.

Hugs are good for us; they are a positive contribution to our emotional and physiological well-being. Studies show that hugs can build a good immune system, trigger the release of healthy hormones , decrease the risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, reduces stress, improve overall mood, increase nerve activity, and a host of other beneficial effects.

So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and hug someone (although I’d ask first if it’s a stranger).