“We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.” Family Therapist Virginia Satir

I so love the twitterverse, that’s where I discovered Delia and Brainard Carey of We Hug The World For You. Kir is sponsoring hugs on February 1st 2010 so be sure to stop by their site and check it out. Hugging is such a simple but often overlooked gesture and an easy way to boost your health and well being. There are many benefits related to hugging and yes- you can even hug yourself to begin to reap the rewards.

According to research at the University of North Carolina, hugging reduces both the stress hormone cortisol and high blood pressure while releasing the feel good hormone oxytocin. Hugging helps people to remain more closely bonded and feel connected. There are many fascinating research studies that stem from our understanding (or maybe lack of understanding) of the basic human need for touch. Yet at the same time it seems our society is moving more and more away from physical gestures and interactions. I believe though that hugging is literally contagious, if we reach out to hug others more they will do the same. Use the recommendations above as a daily guide and start going out of your way to make sure you give & receive your daily quota of hugs.