"Social Distancing" is a new term being dropped all over the media outlets in response to the worldwide pandemic known as the Coronavirus (COVID-19). In affected areas, it has been encouraged to cancel all gatherings that include more than 250 people. In all areas, people are encouraged to not touch each other--no hugs, no handshakes, and definitely no cuddles.
Research suggests that human touch has an overwhelming psychological benefit. Hugging increases Oxytocin which decreases stress, lowers heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and promotes security and trust. Snuggling has the power to improve communication and strengthen relationships (Read more: https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-surprising-psychological-value-of-human-touch/).
I can't help but wonder what the lack of physical touch will do in a world already emotionally crippled by addiction to smart phones and technology. As a hugger, I always remember the old adage that it requires 7 hugs a day to obtain optimal happiness. In other words, if you want to see how happy you can get, hug 7 people everyday! It really does work, believe me.
I remember one time, during my undergraduate experience, my classmates and I performed a social experiment on hugging. We went to a local mall and congregated near one of the main entrances. As unwitting shoppers entered the mall, I, and my compatriots, approached them, introduced ourselves and informed that it was National Hug Day (we made that up, really not sure if that is a thing!), and offered them a free hug!
Not only did no one turn us down, but the most amazing thing happened. Complete strangers joined our cause and began hugging others! It turned into a giant hugging party! And the best part was the feeling. There was an overwhelming feeling of love and joy in the air, that I have never been able to replicate to this day. It was truly a defining moment in my life. It was the moment that I learned that there is no better feeling than sharing happiness with others!!
I hope you all will join me as I find healthy ways to show love and joy to the people in my life and the people I encounter. I plan to still sneak in my 7 hugs a day and hope for the best. While our world fights a virus, I will continue to fight for happiness.
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