HUG YOURSELF TODAY

Happy Valentine's Day!!! I just want to take a moment and ask you this question:

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TODAY TO SHOW YOURSELF SOME LOVE?

One thing I do every morning as I sit on the side of the bed is hug myself. Have you ever hugged yourself before? Try it some time!

A 10-second hug a day may fight infections, boost your immune system, ease depression, and lessen fatigue.

Hugging yourself boosts oxytocin levels. Elevated oxytocin levels lead to lessening of feelings of anger, loneliness, and isolation.

Wrapping your arms around yourself sends a strong message to your body and your brain: I've got you, I love you, and you are okay.

Hugging yourself is a quick and free act of self-care.

Hugging yourself can improve your mood.

Touch, even your own touch, helps promote relaxation since it lowers levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in your body. Sure, a hug won't solve your problems entirely, but it can help relieve some of your tension and stress.

Hugging yourself can help relieve pain. Hugs release endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain relievers, so getting a hug will actually help soothe aches and pains.

Hugging yourself can lower blood pressure. Hugs activate pressure receptors in the skin called pacinian corpuscles, which send signals to the part of your brain responsible for lowering blood pressure.

Self-hugging 101

1. Fold your arms around your body, positioning them in a way that feels natural and comfortable. For example, folding your arms across your stomach or just below your chest might feel easier than hugging yourself around the chest.

2. Rest your hands on your shoulders or upper arm (just above your biceps). Again, go with what feels natural. If you hug yourself across the stomach, you might find it comfortable to curve your hands around your sides.

3. Imagine the type of hug you want. A strong, intense hug? Or a softer, soothing hug?

4. Squeeze yourself with just enough pressure to create the sensation you’re looking for.

5. Hold the hug for as long as you like.

6. Some people find it soothing to gently rock back and forth while hugging themselves, so you might also consider giving this a try.

7. If you don’t feel like hugging yourself, try stroking your forearms or upper shoulders in a soothing way, similar to a gentle massage.

You play the most important role in your own wellness, and hugging yourself can help remind yourself of your power. Instead of waiting for someone else to offer support and make you feel better, you can take steps to comfort yourself.

Have a blessed Valentine's Day! Treat yourself to a self hug today!!!

Hugs,

Coach Kammy