by Marie Kauna – EMTV Online, Port Moresby
Today is National Hug Day or National Hugging Day. It is an annual day and celebration of the day falls on every year on January 21.
The day was founded in 1986 in Cairo, Michigan to embrace hugging. Since then, the day has spread to other countries including Canada, England, Australia, Germany and Poland.
Although many feel hugging is not necessary, its psychological benefits suggest that hugging can reduce the worry of mortality, stimulate oxytocin, lower heart rate, stimulates serotonin, parasympathetic balance and enhance immune system. For babies, hugging keeps them healthy and less stressed.
After growing popular, many have suggested to change the name from ‘National’ to ‘International’.
The day is now celebrated to encourage people around the world to show more affection in the public areas through hugging. To celebrate this day, one can offer a simple hug to friends and friends.
