Hugging is heart-healthy embrace that activates the feel good hormone, oxytocin which makes us warm and fuzzy.

Almost everyone loves to be hugged and this has nothing to do with the warm feeling you get from a good hug. Its deeper than that; hug therapy affects your entire body to an extent scientists claim is comparable to the effects of some drugs.
Hug therapy is when hugging is used to bring succor or emotional comfort and healing. Research has shown that hugging can be an effective way of treating stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness and certain medical conditions.
Certain situations may prevent you from being with a loved one and you might feel the need for a hug, here is the good news; if desperate for a hug and on your own, who says you cant give yourself one as in self-hugging?
Self-hugging to a large extent may sound a little out of place, silly or awkward, but its the real deal. Hugging yourself can have some pretty big benefits, plus its a great way to give yourself some love, including helping to relieve pain.
Research from 2011 and 2015 show that the hormone, oxytocin released with a soothing touch, may play a role in pain relief.
The significance of human connection and social support offers cannot be undermined due to the benefits attached. For example, if someone you care for wraps his arms around you in a hug, you will probably feel comforted and less alone.
So, giving yourself a hug can replicate the same feelings of comfort and safety especially if you think of it as a sort of stand-in until you can hug someone else again.
Heres how to hug just in case you cant clearly visualize how to hug yourself. Fold your arms around your body, positioning them in a way that feels natural and comfortable. Like, fold your arms across your stomach or just below your chest. Then, rest your hands on your shoulders or upper arm (just above your biceps) and hug yourself across the stomach. You might find it comfortable to curve your hands around your sides, while at it, imagine the type of hug you want; is it a strong, intense hug, a softer or soothing hug? Based on what you desire, you can now squeeze yourself with just enough pressure to create the sensation you want and hold the hug for as long as you like.
Hugging therapy is definitely a powerful way of healing. Research shows that hugging, along with laughter, is extremely effective at healing depression, anxiety, and stress.
In case you dont know, hugs are very much like meditation and laughter. It teaches us to let go and be present in the moment, flowing with the energy of life. (this energy exchange between people hugging is an investment in the relationship). Its synergistic, more like a win-win outcome.
Note that everyone needs four hugs a day for survival, eight hugs a day for maintenance and 12 hugs a day for growth. Though eight or more might seem like a bit much, but since were all striving to complete our wellness care, why not shoot high? Everybody can use all the love they can get.
A little self-love can help, so dont be afraid to give yourself a hug when in need of one. Relieve your stress and tension. Give hug therapy a try!