Who doesn't need them? Touch and closeness with others is in fact necessary for survival. It also lessens the intensity of pain and strengthens the immune system. According to a 2003 study, more hugs are related to better cardiovascular health and less reactivity to stress.
Apparently some high schools have banned hugging, while others embrace it. If appropriateness is a problem there is always the safe "side-hug" to fall back on.
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Here's probably my favorite music video. Music by DMB and a lot of hugs by a guy with some sweet sideburns.
What is your stance on hugging? Close friends and family only? New friends? Weird guys running around on the street? Trees? Personally, I like any opportunity for a good hug, as long as it feels safe. Granted, hugs with my wife are more frequent and last a little longer, but being able to hug someone is a sign that there is comfort there--some kind of positive connection.
I'm a bit of a dichotomy. Love the hugs from my wife--can't get enough of them. But from pretty much anyone else, I'm uncomfortable. Especially guys (subconscious homophobia? father issues? I'm not the psychologist...).
ReplyDeleteI love hugs and will take all I can get!
ReplyDeleteI love hugs! people (male, female, family and friends, but usually not strangers), trees, dogs and cats, horses. We once had a boa constrictor who gave great hugs!
ReplyDeleteI love kisses too. (but I never kissed the snake.)
Close family and friends only for me. I get creeped out when I am touched by anyone not in that category, especially men.
ReplyDeleteno hugs...it's awkward from anyone.
ReplyDeleteI'm not generally a huggy person. I love hugs from my Mister and my mom. Other than that, it really depends on the situation.
ReplyDeleteI have gotten more comfortable hugging than I used to be.