8 Hugs a Day

8 Hugs a Day

For more than 2 years now I have had a practice of sharing 8 hugs a day. Why? Hugs promote the release of oxytosin, also known as the ‘love chemical,’ ‘trust molecule,’ and even ‘morality molecule.’ Oxytosin is also released while singing, holding hands, snuggling, and during childbirth, breastfeeding, and sex. It promotes a feeling of belonging and facilitates a feeling of trust and cooperation. Oxytosin reduces stress and anxiety levels, and may even help regulate metabolism. 

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Studies have shown a correlation between oxytosin levels and pro-social behaviors, including increased generosity and trust. Just exhibiting trust is enough to produce oxytosin, no physical contact necessary. There is a lot of scientific information out there about oxytosin, but let it suffice to say that this molecule allows us to experience some of the best aspects of being human.  That being said - like any isolated chemical there are side effects to taking synthetic oxytosin, so let’s just stick with the more interesting organic forms of production ;).

But why 8 hugs? Before I knew anything about oxytosin, I took a psychosomatics class in college. During finals week, we went to the library and gave out free hugs.  We also blew bubbles, it was quite the day! I was giddy with the joy of it all. And, contrary to what I had anticipated, most people wanted free hugs from strangers. Very few people declined. One woman, upon being offered a free hug, said to me “Yes, I’d love one. My grandmother in Uganda says that you need 8 hugs a day to survive.”

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I have always been a huggy person, but when I saw a very scientific youtube video a few weeks later re-iterating the wisdom of this Ugandan grandmother, I decided to try it out. I started offering hugs to people at work, and of course my roommates made sure I was always up to quota. While it was a little difficult for me to start asking to share a hug with a mere acquaintance, after a few days my shyness had subsided and I began offering hugs enthusiastically (always consensual hugs, of course). After 2 weeks, people started asking me for hugs, and told me that they had started hugging others more. What fun!! I have never looked back. Now I make sure to get at least 8 hugs every day, even if they are all from my cat.

So, what have you got to lose? Sharing hugs increases feelings of happiness, reduces stress, and promotes a culture of trust and generosity. And the best part is, consensual hugs are a win win situation! So, go hug someone today, and get in touch with your human side.
                                               
                                               Happy Hugging!!

P.S. One study shows that ‘social networking affects your brain like falling in love’ – so if you are too far away to give me a hug, you can give me a virtual hug by liking and sharing my posts ;)

 resources:
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304811304577365782995320366
http://www.fastcompany.com/1659062/social-networking-affects-brains-falling-love