Monday 15th July is Global Hug Your Kids Day which was started by Michelle Nichols in 2008, a decade after her son Mark died of brain cancer at the age of 8 ½. In my household, this happens nearly every day. Initially, when little big man was a baby I ‘forced’ him to hug me. Now, he ‘demands' a timed two minute hug. So, no matter how busy I am, I stop what I am doing and let him set the timer – usually 2 minutes and some extra seconds, and we just sit and hug. We try not to talk whilst hugging and just pass on positive energy to each other. I cherish every hug, as soon, he won’t want them anymore. There are many benefits of hugging: boosts immunity, lowers stress, increases self esteem, promotes trust, reduces depression, shows appreciation, forms a bond, relaxes the body, elevates the mind and reduces worry. So, it doesn’t have to be a child that you can hug: a friend or family member, someone who you think will appreciate a cuddle/hug. If you are not a hugger, there is a first time for everything – they are quite addictive.
