Hugging Is Good For You

George likes to hug doesn't he ?

An article on MSN.....


The Benefits of Hugging

There are many ways that you and your partner can demonstrate your love, appreciation and understanding for one another in a relationship – but did you know that there’s a lot more science in a simple hug than you might think? In the wake of the world record breaking hug-a-thon at St Pancras, eight couples embraced each other for 24hrs and 44 minutes under the watchful eye of the 20 tonne statue, The Lovers. They succeeded in breaking the record by 11 minutes. Clever cuddlers.We spoke to Hugologist, Jean Smith, to find out why regular cuddles can not only be beneficial to your relationship, but even improve your health.

Hugging strengthens your relationship

When you think about it logically, choosing to press your body against someone else and wrap your arms around them is a little odd, yet it makes us feel closer to our partners – why?
According to Jean Smith, Hugologist, the close proximity experienced while hugging “encourages important pair bonding influences to take place, such as scent and mirroring”.
If you want to get the most out of your cuddles, Jean suggests that hugs are most effective when held for 20 seconds.

Hugging makes you happy

You don’t need a scientist to tell you that chocolate can significantly improve a bad mood, but did you know that hugging can have the same effect? Good news for the waistband.
“Hugs, like chocolate, promote feelings of happiness, which translates into oxytocin being released in our brain” says Jean.
When oxytocin is released into the brain you experience a feeling of contentment, a reduction in anxiety and generally feel calmer (Meyer & Dixie, 2007).
The oxytocin hormone is also present when you’re intimate with your partner and when you give birth – this is nature’s way of bonding you with your partner or new-born.

Hugging improves your health

Healthy eating and regular exercise are the most commonly cited ways to improve your health, but according to research by the University of North Carolina, hugging can also help.
Their study found that women who hugged their partner daily had lower blood pressure than those who didn’t. As a result, these women were less likely to develop to heart disease. And it seems that hugging may also have spiritual benefits too. In November 2011, thousands queued at London’s Alexandra Palace for a hug from Indian spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi.
Known as the ‘Hugging Saint’ she promised to meet and hug every person that queued to meet her, and her hugs have been enjoyed by celebrities such as Russell Brand, Sharon Stone and Susan Sarandon.

Bonding with a partner is about showing them that they're appreciated, wanted and about understanding what makes them feel good. It really doesn't take a lot to achieve – so arms wide open people and get hugging, a simple hug could work wonders for you and your relationship!

The best hugs in the world are those given by your grandchildren, especially grown grandsons who just enfold you in their teddybear cuddly arms. They are given with such love it's unbelieveable.
The next best are those given in the same manner by sons-in-law.
Next best by sons.
These hugs are not to be confused with spousal hugs, as there is only love without any sexual blowback. There is nothing to compare with that which you get from your "better half".

I like a hug with my dog !

is always real George embraces all men and women .... but no Stacy , why?

I love a hug and snuggle from my cat. Lots of love (and cat hair). LOL