Dear Stimmians,

Have You Had a Hug Today???

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Maybe this question sound strange for you, but do you really know the health benefits of hugging?

I'm French and in my culture, cuddle is reserved for close friends or family. When we say "hello", we do kiss 😚, but we rarely with embrace.

In some cultures, it's much more usual. For example, in the United States. When I went there for the first time, 10 months ago, I was surprised because I'm not used to it. But, in the end habits change quickly 😉!

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There is an international celebration of hugs: January 21st. It was invented by the American Reverend Kevin Zaborney. This celebration has spread throughout the world with many adaptations. You probably know the barges "free hugs"? They come from our Australian friends and we see them now in the big cities of the world!

What are the benefits for our health ???

• Hugs can lower stress and boost immunity

You will feel closer to people, more open and more relaxed. It helps our immune system to be more powerful! No more reason to stress! 😎. During a hug, the body produces a hormone called * oxytocin *. It helps your heart slow down and reduces your blood pressure. Which makes you feel more peaceful. You are less stressed and therefore less sick!

According to the U.S. News & World Report :

Even among those who have had a common cold, the symptoms were less severe if they felt more supportive and were more often cuddled.

A good hug can help calm down in a stressful situation - a presentation at work, a worrying medical test, an exam, a long trip ...

• Hugs can increase our self-esteem and promotes trust

In the early years of our lives, we integrate tactile sensations into our nervous system. Cuddles received from your parents promote self-esteem. A baby who does not receive cuddling, would have difficulty at the relational level. These experiences are printed at the cellular level throughout our lives and connect us to our ability to love ourselves.
Oxytocin is considered the hormone of love, trust and social bond.

• Hugs can reduce depression

Although communication is paramount, people often forget the importance of contact. Physical contact is essential to emotional well-being and actually helps our natural antidepressant: serotonin. We also know that the physical contact of our loved ones promotes a healthy emotional attachment that is the foundation of a happy long-term relationship.

Let's do this my friends, help our bodies create serotonin and oxytocin !!!
A hug is not necessarily between you and your lover. It also works with friends, or even with your flamingo 😜. If you miss a hug partner, the solution may be in Japan. There, they invented a special chair who gives you a beneficial embrace 😄 !!!

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KISS, LOVE & ....

FLAMINGIRL