I would like to share with you this story from “Inspirational Short Stories website,”:
“One day many years ago shortly after my husband passed away, I sat on a bench near his grave in solitude and was remembering the wonderful life we had. Tears were in my eyes and on my face. A young woman came near to visit the grave of a friend of hers and saw me. When she turned to leave, she asked me if I was OK. I said, “I was” She said to me, “You look like you need a hug” at which she approached me and gave me a big hug. It really restored my faith in human kindness. I will never forget that young woman or that incident.”
In line with this human kindness, I remember one evening when I was anchoring my radio program ‘Mom From the Heart’ at DYAP few years ago, a listener dropped by at the station. When I hugged her, she moved backward and said, “Mom Kath, I’m sorry. I’m not used to being hugged. When I was little my mother never hugged me.”
I pitied her because she missed the powerful effect of hugging. I’m fortunate because my late mother was a great hugger. Hugging therapy is definitely a powerful way of healing according to life coach Marcus Julian Felicetti. Research shows that hugging is extremely effective at healing sickness, disease, loneliness, depression and stress. Hugging is great gesture of showing your love and care to the person being hugged.
Researches reveal that a proper deep hug can benefit you in these ways as pointed out by our source and “HUFFPOST Healthy Living website,”:
*They make us feel good.
*More hugs lower blood pressure, alleviate our fears , and good for our heart.
*The nurturing touch of a hug builds trust and sense of safety. This can help open and honest communication.
*Hugs can instantly heal feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anger.
*Hugs strengthen the immune system.
*Hugging boost self-esteem. From the time we were born our family’s touch shows that we’re loved and special. The cuddles that we received from our mom and dad while growing up remain imprinted in our inner being. Hugs, therefore connect us to our ability to self-love.
*Hugging relaxes muscles. Hugs release tension in the body. Hugs can take away pain; they soothe aches by increasing circulation of the blood.
*Hugs are so much like meditation and laughter. They teach us to let go and be present in the moment. They encourage us to flow with the energy of life.
*Holding a hug can elevate mood and create happiness. Be generous with your hugs. It makes one’s day.