Mon. Nov 18th, 2024

Why a Hug Could Do You Good

We all have those days where we could use a big cuddle, but according to the experts, a heartfelt hug could actually be good for our health!

Various studies have revealed that enjoying an embrace makes our bodies release the bonding hormone Oxytocin, which works to reduce our stress levels and blood pressure, plus lifts our mood –  making a great excuse to reach out for a snuggle with your loved one, children or even just the family pet.

However, in spite of the scientific evidence that supports our need for hugs, a surprising number of people in the UK claim that they don’t get enough. According to the research by bear brand Forever Friends, whose thoughtful personalised greeting cards and gifts are available online at Hallmark.co.uk, one in three people say they crave more cuddles, and more than a quarter claimed that they saved their hugs for special occasions.

These sad snuggle statistics prompted Forever Friends to consult with Judi James, a relationship and body language expert. Together they have compiled a guide to hug etiquette, which should get even the most cuddle-shy people enjoying embraces more often.

The Etiquette of Hugging

  • Hold on Tight: The golden rule of hugs is that the firmer they are, the better. Judi says that tighter squeezes are more sincere, and a limp hug is worse than no hug at all, so put your heart and soul into it!
  • Timing is Everything: Men in particular are often unsure as to how long to maintain their hugs.  This can be a tricky one to judge and largely depends on the person and situation, but just remember not to make your hug too short as it won’t feel genuine.
  • Be Generous: A great cuddle shouldn’t just be shared with your close friends and family, says Judi. If you see a colleague or even just an acquaintance that’s in need of a hug, chances are they’ll appreciate it, as long as you ask permission first!

Hopefully these top tips will come in handy to the one in ten people who claimed that cuddles don’t come naturally to them, but for the 26% of people who said they proactively dish out hugs, they’ll just offer further encouragement.

So when you see your partner, children and friends next, welcome them with open arms – they’ll be as grateful for it as you are!

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By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

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