The Six Second Hug

I love my parents dearly and learn from them constantly…even as an adult.  My stepmom, who is just like a mother to me, continues to enlighten me daily – lol!  She is good at organizing, quilting, decorating, shopping, cooking, cutting hair, putting kids to sleep (yes!), and showing affection.

She recently taught me about the six second hug. Have you ever heard of it? When I hug people, I generally embrace them for a second, pat their back, and back away. When I first saw her at the house here in California, she gave me a hug. I pulled away and she pulled me back to her. I wasn’t sure what the heck was going on. Then she told me about the six second hug.

Now, when I hug her, both of us sigh. It’s really relaxing and I believe it helps to develop a special bond between you and the person you are hugging.

Here is some interesting information I found on hugging:

Research shows that if we hold a hug for at least six seconds, we optimize the flow of mood-boosting chemicals.

Studies show that a family member is 47% more likely to feel close to a family member who often expresses affection than to one who rarely does. Sometimes it’s good to say, “I love you,” sometimes it’s good to express that thought without words.

Also, frequent huggers have lower blood pressure and higher levels of oxytocin (a chemical that promotes bonding).

Try out a six second hug and let me know what you think!