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Happiness Tip: Give 8 Hugs Everyday

We all know that hugs make us feel better; one reason they do is that they stimulate production of the feel-good neurotransmitter oxytocin — the so-called bonding hormone.

Oxytocin makes us feel more connected to those around us; feeling socially connected, in turn, makes us happy.

I was just listening to one of Dr. Sara Gottfried’s webinars; in it she recommends getting or giving eight hugs a day in order to reap the benefits of the oxytocin that hugs can stimulate. Personally, I’ve found that just watching other people hug (specifically, in this video) can make me feel warm and glowy.

Take Action: Decide right now when and where you’ll get your daily eight hugs, and make sure those hugs get built into your daily routine. For example, hug your kids everyday when you get them out of bed, your partner everyday before you leave for work, someone at lunchtime everyday, etc. The hugs need to be “lingering” — quick pats on the back aren’t going to cut it. Bonus: lingering kisses and mini-massages also work.

Who will you hug and kiss each day? Comment below.

 

11 comments

  1. Phoebe B. says:

    I liked the point that one needs to be intentional.  Plan it and it will happen.  And that they should be lingering.  No burp pats.  Great Monday tip.  I have my eight.  Thanks!

  2. Amy Meier says:

    When I was a kid and I didn’t see my dad for a while, he would first approach me with a sad sack look on his face. I’d ask him what was wrong and he’s say, “I’m low on hugs”. Then I’d hug ‘im and hug ‘im, checking frequently to see if a smile returned to his face. Eventually it did and he would be energized and be extra animated for my benefit. I loved it and felt it was my duty to replenish him. He often returned the favor when I was feeling low.

  3. DuckyFace says:

    Great article. Hugs definitely help not hurt. I am the mom of a toddler who has just had the misfortune of having to share his mommy with newborn twins. I found that taking time to give him a few more extra hugs and kisses each day is making the adjustment go fairly smooth.

  4. Judy says:

    Lucky me to be living with my daughter and her family. I get lots and lots of hugs from them every day, especially my two beautiful granddaughters and also the members of my support group for straight spouses.  

  5. Mikala Moffatt says:

    Lucky me To be living with my daughtyou my and her family. I get lotsand lots of hugs from them every day, especially my two beautiful granddaughters and also the members of my support group for straight spouses.

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