The Power of a 20 Second Hug
The other morning, I realised I'm blessed that my 14-year-old boy still wants a hug. This is something that I want to keep doing forever. I'm going to get better at trying to hug for at least 20 seconds. Why? Because the power of a 20-second hug goes well beyond love and affection. Here are 10 reasons why you should hug for 20 seconds or more.
-
Sense of Security and bonding: Hugging promotes a feeling of safety and security for children. It can be essential during times of stress or anxiety. Regular hugs contribute to the development of strong emotional bonds between children and their caregivers, fostering a sense of connection and trust.
-
Release of Oxytocin: Hugging triggers the release of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone." Oxytocin can help reduce stress and anxiety levels in children.
-
Immune System Boost: Positive physical touch, like hugging, has been linked to improved immune system function. Healthier kids are often those who experience supportive physical contact.
-
Non-Verbal Communication: Hugging is a form of non-verbal communication conveying love, support, and acceptance. It helps children understand and express their emotions.
-
Feeling Valued: Regular hugs contribute to a child's sense of being loved and valued, which is essential for building healthy self-esteem.
-
Calming Effect: Hugging can have a calming effect on children, helping them regulate their emotions and cope with challenging situations.
-
Better Sleep: The calming effect of hugging can extend to bedtime, promoting relaxation and potentially leading to better sleep for children
-
Empathy: Experiencing warmth and affection through hugs can help children develop empathy as they learn to understand and share the feelings of others
-
Quality Time: A 20-second hug is a brief yet powerful moment of connection, reinforcing the idea that caregivers are available and attentive to their children's needs
-
Reward System: Hugging as a form of positive reinforcement can encourage positive behaviour in children, as they associate physical affection with feelings of approval and love.
When kids are little we give them loads of hugs and kisses, but are you still hugging your big kids and even your partner? We all love a hug, just reach out and make someone's day better with a 20-second hug.
|
