National Hugging Day
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Where is National Hugging Day celebrated?
National Hugging Day is observed by the people in the United States of America, where it is a day that the United States Copyright Office has acknowledged. It is also celebrated in the United Kingdom and recently has been a hit in Germany.
Who is National Hugging Day celebrated by?
National Hugging Day is celebrated by anyone and everyone who loves the act of hugging and enjoys giving and receiving hugs.
When did National Hugging Day first start?
National Hugging Day first started in 1986 in Clio, Michigan.
Who started National Hugging Day?
This day, dedicated to hugs, was started by Kevin Zaborney as he found that even during holidays and days like Valentine's Day, Christmas, New Year's, people were in low spirits and were ashamed and embarrassed to hug their loved ones. Thus he started this day to encourage people to hug more.
History And Timeline
Hugs have been found to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, which could mean that it is beneficial for heart health, thus could potentially aid in reducing any heart disease from affecting us. Hugs can also strengthen a person's immune system. As hugs produce changes in oxytocin levels, they create happiness and, thus, are a positive touch.
Hug, The Word Enters Vocabulary
The word hug is derived from Hugga, an old Norse word, entered the vocabulary.
1560sBirth Of National Hugging Day
National Hugging Day was celebrated for the first time in Clio, Michigan.
1986Starting Of The Free Hugs Campaign
The Free Hugs campaign began when people hugged strangers for free.
2004Illustrated Guide To Free Hugs
A guide aimed at inspiring more people to engage in hugs was published.
2007Germany Likes National Hugging Day
The National Hugging Day becomes a hit in Germany.
2011Traditions And Customs
There aren't any specific traditions on this day except showing support by hugging friends, family, and even strangers. Remember to ask for permission before hugging anyone, as it is important to respect their wishes and personal space.
Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Hugging Day
National Hugging Day can be celebrated in any way a person wants. Hug a stranger, your friends, a family member. Hug yourself as a form of support to yourself. Inspire people who are hesitant to hug to embrace.
This day is dedicated to sharing your love for someone else. You can even try out the different types of embracing, like bear hugs. So let's help our immune system out by hugging others and reducing our stress on this day.
Facts And Stats
- National Hugging Day began in 1986, founded by Kevin Zaborney to raise spirits. He observed that people were in a low mood even during festive holidays like Christmas and New Year's and generally refused to hug due to embarrassment.
- Many individuals tend to refrain from acts of public affection. However, on National Hugging Day, people embrace regardless of how they feel.
- Hugging releases many brain chemicals and can be emotional and include a variety of feelings and benefits, including reducing stress by lowering the hormone cortisol in the body. Teach your friends and family these exciting facts on National Hugging Day.
- Embracing that consists of approximately 20 seconds of human contact is the best for physical and emotional well-being. Spread such messages on social media on this day.
Why is National Hugging Day celebrated?
National Hugging Day is celebrated to encourage everyone to hug their loved ones more and not feel embarrassed about doing so.
How do people celebrate National Hugging Day?
People celebrate this day by hugging their loved ones and even strangers.
In which countries do people celebrate National Hugging Day?
The United States of America has recognized this day officially, though not as a public holiday. This day is also celebrated by the United Kingdom, and recently by Germany, specifically, since 2011.
What is unique about National Hugging Day?
This day includes embracing even strangers without considering differences between people. This day is a day on which people engage in physical acts of affection through hugs without feeling ashamed or hesitant.
How⅝ does this day affect people psychologically?
A hug releases many chemicals in the human body, which increases pleasant emotions, reduces stress, heart rate, and many more. A hug essentially is an act of support through physical contact, which brings people relief.
When Is This Day Celebrated
- Monday, January 20, 2020
- Wednesday, January 20, 2021
- Thursday, January 20, 2022
- Friday, January 20, 2023
- Saturday, January 20, 2024
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Master of Business Administration
Deepthi ReddyMaster of Business Administration
With an MBA under her belt, Deepthi has discovered her true calling in content writing. Her writing repertoire is diverse, covering travel, movies, pet care, parenting, animals and birds, and more. Her joy of learning and creating has helped her craft well-written and engaging articles. When she isn't writing, Deepthi enjoys exploring new cultures, trying different foods, and spending quality time with her two children aged 7 and 12.
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