Hug Day 2023: A guide to health benefits of hugging this Valentine’s Week

Hug Day is celebrated on January 11 every year as the fifth day of the seven-day long Valentine festivities. On this day, couples around the world express their true love and feelings to their partners, parents, siblings, and friends by wrapping them in a warm and cuddly hug.

If science is to be believed, hugging has some amazing hidden advantages that go beyond emotions and involve physical and mental health. Many reports suggest that deep hugs have shown positive effects against physical ailments, anxiety, loneliness and melancholy. Hugging the patient as part of the treatment has proven magical in some conditions.




Here’s a list of some effective health benefits offered by warm hugs. Take a look.

Reduces discomfort

Hugs are quite helpful for patients suffering from diseases like fibromyalgia syndrome. In such ailments, a therapeutic touch can lessen pain and improve the health condition. Patients are given hand massages that increase the level of oxytocin in the body. The doctor and the patient need to sign the agreement citing the physical contact requirement.

Anti-ageing benefits

If you are planning to stay young for long, start giving impromptu hugs to your loved ones. Hugging is found to have many anti-aging benefits on the human body. It increases the oxytocin and serotonin levels, improves sleep schedule and reduces ageing symptoms. A healthier lifestyle clubbed with cuddly hugs can keep you young.

Calms body

Research shows that hugging is a powerful source of happiness. It triggers the parasympathetic nervous system of the body, which ensures an elevation in happiness. Hugs also offer a feel of trust, comfort, companionship, and security to the receiver during difficult circumstances.

Non-verbal conveying of feelings

Hugs allow people to communicate their feelings and emotions to other people without using words. It nurtures ‘bonding’ between couples and creates a comforting vibe between them.

Reduces stress

Over the years, several studies have found hugging as a potent stress relieving solution. The activity releases happy hormones in the body that give instant relaxation and peace to mind. Couples who prefer to be arm-in-arm during unfavourable conditions are able to manage stressful situations smoothly.

Muscle relaxation

Stress and tension can accumulate in body muscles causing uneasiness and pain. A hug from your loved one can disseminate all the stress in the muscles and also promote blood flow.

FAQs

Q1. What is the first day of Valentine’s Week?
Ans. Valentine's Week starts on February 7 with Rose Day.

Q2. What are some good gift options for Valentine’s Day 2023?
Ans. Some amazing gifting options for Valentine’s Day are smartphones, customised T-shirts, bags, shoes, digital watches and ear pods.