Hug The Bug Out.

“The Magic of Embracing Human Connection on Free Hug Day!”

Jadoo ki jappi,” from the iconic film Munna Bhai MBBS, has the remarkable ability to unlock a treasure trove of memories. I am reminded of my niece, a wise three-year-old, offering my father, who was bravely battling cancer, a hug. “Amma, I’ll hug you, and you’ll feel better,” she declared with the authority of a seasoned healer. This charmingly simple gesture underscores the importance of human touch in our daily lives, essential for our emotional and physical well-being.

A rather pensive Kannada poem captures this sentiment perfectly:

ಎನಿದೇನಿದು ತೇಲುಗಣ್ಣಿನ ಮೇಲು ನೋಟದ ಸೂಚನೆ?
ಯಾವ ಸುಮದುರ ಯಾತನೆ? ಯಾವ ದಿವ್ಯದ ಯಾಚನೆ?”
GopalKrishna Adiga.

“Roughly translated, it muses, “Why are the eyes gazing into the distant horizon? Which divinity is calling you?” It suggests that while we often embark on lofty spiritual quests, we must not overlook the marvels of our physical existence. After all, our bodies are integral to our personal growth.

In my own youth, touching was often frowned upon. “Muttu beda” (don’t touch) was a common refrain. The notion was that carrying a child too much would spoil them. However, I soon realized that touch, particularly human touch, is a balm for the soul. It connects us not only to our bodies but also to the energetic presence of others. Richelle E. Goodrich aptly puts it: sometimes all we can do is hug a friend tightly and wish their pain could transfer to our emotional hard drive.

There are myriad ways to weave touch into our daily tapestry. The simplest and most effective? A heartfelt embrace. It allows energy to pass between us, strengthening the bonds that hold us together. Hugs have a magical ability to heal, conveying that no matter what happens, someone supports and cares for us.

Consider this delightful family tradition I know: elders massage the younger ones’ heads before bed, and the younger ones massage the elders’ feet or backs. This nourishing touch is an ancient form of healing. Massage, whether from a loved one or a professional, activates our bodies’ restorative powers, allowing us to engage fully in our healing.

Touch, you see, has a memory. Embracing the healing nature of touch creates space to live fully, immersing ourselves in the joy and wonder of life.

Now, on this International Free Hug Day, let’s embrace the positivity that hugs promote. The origins of this day are somewhat obscure, but the act of giving and receiving hugs is undoubtedly impactful. Alas, in today’s world, touch can be controversial. Sometimes, we hug out of duty or formality, often lacking trust.

Yet, for those who feel isolated and mistrustful, a single hug can be transformative. When my grandmother hugged me, I felt invincible. A hug is powerful non-verbal communication; it envelops a person, offering care, safety, and a sense of belonging. When words fail, a hug speaks volumes.

Laughter with those that understand us is music for the soul.
A hug at the right moment and a kind shoulder to lean on,
Is the sprinkle of magic that keeps us walking towards hope.”

— Mimi Novic —

Hugs release oxytocin, building bonds and trust. People rooted in a sense of belonging are much healthier. Interestingly, 59% of people give right-handed hugs, while 41% are left-handed, with left-handed hugs being more common in emotional moments.

The most magical moments are when you receive a hug you don’t feel you deserve. It evokes compassion and touches the soul. American psychotherapist Virginia Satir once said, “We need four hugs a day for survival. We need eight hugs a day for maintenance. And we need twelve hugs a day for growth.” Hugs cure most things, and for the rest, there’s always a smile.

Hugs are the truest form of giving and receiving; when you give one, you get one too. Love, bonding, and belonging make us vulnerable. We love and belong to family, but sometimes, unintentionally, we hurt each other. In our need for connection, we might lash out like a wounded animal, wanting a hug but afraid to accept one.

Perhaps we should try hugging the person we are angry with or who hurt us. It’s difficult to stay angry while showing affection. However, approach this with caution to avoid unintended consequences.

Today, on International Free Hug Day, let’s celebrate the power of touch:

Hug your family.
Hug your friends.
Hug yourself.

#calltoaction, #Julyenergy

Spread love, compassion, and positivity through the simple, powerful act of a hug. It’s just the ticket for a world that could use a bit more warmth and togetherness.