Monday, September 27, 2010

Hugs



As you button up your shirt, you ask, "So, what's your diagnosis, doc?"

He pauses and then replies, "It appears you're suffering from touch deprivation."

Somewhat taken aback, you sputter, "Is there a special treatment for that?"

Smiling, the doctor answers, "Yes … lots and lots of hugs."

I have been trying out the 30 second hug around my house.  It was on a news show recently, that hugging is good, but 30 second hugs are better. It takes 30 seconds for your body to relax and release the mood lifting endorphins that we all crave.  
I have good huggers at my house...but watching the clock with the 30 second deadline in mind is hard.  It's a long time.  It feels good....and it feels lengthy. I want to get better at this; just being in the moment and connecting.  

Top Ten Benefits of Hugging ( I didn't make these up.  I did my research, thank you very much!)
  1. Costs nothing
  2. Boosts your immune system
  3. Builds self-esteem
  4. Fosters self-acceptance
  5. Alleviates tension
  6. Helps curb appetite
  7. Saves heat
  8. Is portable
  9. Requires no special setting or equipment
  10. Feels incredibly good!
We need 4 hugs a day for survival
We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance
We need 12 hugs a day for growth
or
ONE LONG- 30 second hug.

Just thinking about reaching out and touching someone.....

4 comments:

Rachelle said...

Physical touch is my first love language, I think I am going to make this a rule in the morning.

Unknown said...

I liked this post. Hugs to you.

Laur said...

Physical Touch is also my primary love language. I love the 30 second hug Melinda! And ... I have a great letter story to tell you from T.

Laur said...

Oh yeah, and the picture on the side of your blog that says "an attitude is a terrible thing to waste" ... that woman actually quite looks like you. didn't know if you've ever noticed that.