National Hugging Day is celebrated each year on January 21 and was launched on January 21, 1986, in Clio, Michigan by Rev Kevin Zaborney.<\/p>\n
Strangely, this day is copyrighted.<\/p>
One would think that hugs should be given freely and without recourse.<\/p>\n
Regardless, we are thankful to Rev Zaborney for creating this day and would love to thank him with a great, big hug.<\/p>
Studies have shown that human contact has many health benefits.<\/p>\n
It has been found that human contact improves both psychological and physical development. Hugging can also help build a good immune system, decrease the risk of heart disease, and decrease levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, in women.<\/p>\n
It has been shown that a couple who hugs for 20 seconds has higher levels of oxytocin, and that those who were in a loving relationship exhibited a higher increase.<\/p>\n
According to the American Psychosomatic Society, a hug or 10 minutes of holding hands with a loving, romantic partner can help reduce stress and its harmful physical effects.<\/p>\n
In a study, adults who had no contact with people had a higher blood pressure reading and a higher heart rate.<\/p>\n
Other studies have indicated that the touch of a friend might not be as helpful as the touch of a partner but should not be avoided.<\/p>\n
The idea of National Hugging Day is to encourage everyone to hug family and friends more often.<\/p>\n
Whether you hug a family member or a friend or a stranger, the mental and physical health benefits are the same.<\/p>\n
So celebrate today by giving hugs to your family, friends and loved ones.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll love the warm feeling you get.<\/p>\n
Information from http:\/\/webclipart.about.com<\/a><\/p>\n