Tuesday, December 11, 2012

31 Days of 'Elf Care, Tip #11: Engage in Some Holiday Hugging

“We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.” - Virginia Satir





Hugs are a good thing throughout the year, but I think you simply cannot beat the feeling of a warm hug during the festive, chilly Winter Holiday season.

Have you hugged your child today? Your spouse? A friend? Hugging is good self care, and it also benefits the person you hug!

Why hug?

  • Hugs (and human touch) enhance our feelings of security and well-being
  • Hugs reinforce our connections to each other.
  • Hugs tell people that you love them
  • Hugs tell people you want them close to you.
  • Hugs are warm.
  • Hugs are free.

Some Dos and a Don’t of Giving and Receiving Hugs:

DO: Aim for 4, but know that the more hugs you get (and give) the better
DO: Hug first and let go last!
DO: Hug often – you can give one hug to four people or 4 hugs to one person (it all counts!)
DON’T: Be pushy (or creepy) in your hugging- people have different comfort levels with being touched. Always ask first if you don’t know someone well enough.  

Take Good Care!
Self Care Girl
Holiday 'Elf Care Specialist

 
***Hug O' War is from Shel Silverstein.

No comments: