Do you ever find yourself in a state where you just need a hug to feel better? It is normal, there is something about a hug that makes you feel comfortable and loved, especially if given by the people you love. Hugs offer heartwarming energy for both the giver and the recipient. 

Saturday July 2, will be International Free Hugs Day. It is celebrated every first Saturday of July each year. It is a day where people worldwide are reminded to give each other hugs as a way of transmitting love for humanity and positivity. 

The word "hug” is originally derived from the Saxon and Teutonic words "hog” or "hagen,” which mean "to be tender of, or to embrace.” It is believed that hugging is a closer and more fond or friendly form of greeting than handshaking.

According to Anita Teta, a businesswoman in Remera, hugs are a way to connect with someone physically and show that you’re with them regardless of what they are passing through.

For her, when she is lonely, receiving a hug wakes up an excited side of her, and throws the sad thoughts and feelings outside the window. 

She notes that hugging doesn’t only create comfort, but the physical touch makes you calm, thus releasing the pressure or stress, if it takes some more time, the better. 

Teta is of the view that hugs create a sense of togetherness and in the end leads to happiness. "Imagine worrying about each and everything but having no idea of how to go about them, but then just receiving a tight hug, reminds you to stay calm, relaxed and just take one day at a time,” she says. 

For her, receiving a hug from a friend or a loved one, assists to abort fear. For instance, many people are scared of the unexpected, they develop so much fear that at times hinders them from exercising their abilities, talents or knowledge at work, school, home or in society, however, a hug can give one a reminder of who they are and what they are capable of. 

Teta explains that hugs allow some people to release their bottled up emotions. That’s why when some people are hugged, they cry to let out their emotions both good and sad. 

"Although we don’t hug everyone, truthfully, hugging the people you’re comfortable with creates a strong bond and connection,” she says.

The businesswoman also carries on that hugging can be one of the ways to show affection and care for someone. 

She however notes that it’s important to read the situation and know when to give or receive a hug. Sometimes it’s just professional to give a handshake if you’re not close to someone in a way that requires a hug. 

She explains that it’s necessary to keep boundaries as some people don’t know when a hug is casual or professional that they go an extra mile to accompany it with a cheek peck. She believes that one ought to communicate what you’re comfortable with or not. 

Dr Stone Kraushaar, author of ‘Hug Therapy: A 21-Day Journey to Embracing Yourself, Your Life, and Everyone Around You’, believes that all people share a sincere human connection. He views relationships through the lens of hugging. To him, a hug, whether real or virtual, is a description for lowering walls and bringing people together. 

The author created a powerful movement based on people going on 21-day hugging journeys to offer them a more understanding about the essence of hugs and how to give them. He defines a hug as any positive, healthy, and connective energy that brings acceptance, healing and peace.

According to Healthline, the stress-reducing effects of hugging might also work to keep you healthier. In a study of over 400 adults, researchers found that hugging may reduce the chance a person will get sick.

"Most human communication occurs verbally or through facial expressions. But touch is another important way that people can send messages to one another. Scientists have found that touch can reduce anxiety in people with low self-esteem. Touch can also keep people from isolating themselves when reminded of their mortality.”