The 20 Second Hug

Good morning everyone!

Healing truth for the day - the 20 second hug.

Nothing feels as nice as a big hug from a good friend. Did you know that a 20 second hug has huge health benefits? Hugging, like so many things in life, causes chemical reactions inside our brain which effect the rest of our body. Studies have shown that hugging can -

* Increase levels of oxytocin (the love hormone.)

* Reduce blood pressure and cortisol (the stress hormone.)

* Increase happiness.

* Lower stress.

* Improve relationships and connections.

I'm a hugger. It's my way of saying, "I love you and you matter to me." Here are a few tips for a great 20 second hug -

1. Always ask if you can hug the person first. Never, ever hug someone who doesn't want to be hugged.

2. If you wind up with your arms under theirs, make sure your hands rest on the upper portion of their back.

3. 20 seconds happens just at the point as you are both becoming uncomfortable.

4. Apply a gentle pressure so as to make the hug, and the statement that the hug is making, deliberate. But not too much pressure, then it becomes a "bear hug," and that's a commentary for another time.

5. And most importantly, never, ever do the abrasive pat between the shoulders. Just hug, firmly but gently.

Hugs are good medicine, and we need to spread it around as much as possible.

Have an awesome day.

I love you,

Goddess Aylah