hugs

From a page on Facebook called Wild Woman Sisterhood

"The average length of a hug between two people is 3 seconds.

 But researchers have discovered something fantastic. When a hug lasts 20 seconds, there is a therapeutic effect on the body and mind. The reason is that a sincere hug produces a hormone called "oxytocin", also known as the love hormone. This substance has many benefits in our physical and mental health, helps us, among other things, to relax, to feel safe and calm our fears and anxiety. This wonderful calming is offered free of charge every time we have a person in our arms, who cradled a child, we cherish a dog or cat, we're dancing with our partner, the closer we get to someone or just hold the shoulders of a friend."

This quote made me think. I don't know how accurate it is, but I do believe that hugs are good for us. I'm a hugger as many of the people in my life already know. I love hugging and I tend to hug longer than 3 seconds. I'm often told that I'm the best hugger and I think that it may be because I hug longer than the average so that 'oxytocin' is released. It's not conscious - I just like hugging. I even send lots of virtual hugs.

One of the best things about hugs is that no matter how many you give you never lose any. As a matter of fact you receive as you give - how awesome is that - hugs beget hugs!

So for your own happiness go out and hug someone today. Here's a big ((((((HUG))))))) from me to you. If you need a hug and you live nearby - I'm happy to oblige.