I know this may sound a bit weird, but I had to learn how to hug! My mom and dad were from very strict backgrounds in the 1940’s and their parents were not overly affectionate. In turn, my mom and dad were not very open with their hugs and kisses. As a result, it was awkward for me to hug other people when I was growing up. I soon found hugging was something people liked to do and I enjoyed getting and giving hugs. I decided to do the opposite my parents did with my kids and I hug and kiss them about a million times a day! In celebration on National Hug Day 2014, I wanted to offer some hugging suggestions to inspire you to share the love today!
It’s National Hug Day 2014! How Can You Celebrate?
- Hug The Elderly: Go to an assisted living or retirement facility and hang out with them for a while. Listen to their stories, glean some wisdom, do a craft or watch a soap and as you leave, give them a big hug. Remember many of the occupants may not have family or friends to visit and would appreciate your hug so much.
- Hug Some Kids: Go to the local Children’s hospital and visit some of the kids who are there for an extended stay. I can tell you from experience in working in a children’s hospital, many of these kids crave attention. They would love to have you read them a story, play a board game and yes, give them a big hug. For some reason, many people are afraid to give a kid in the hospital a hug and unless otherwise specified by their doctor, there is no reason not to give them a great big hug.
- Hug Someone You Love: If you live at home with your parents, give them a great big good morning hug. If you have siblings, freak them out by giving them one! Give your husband, lover, kids, dog, cat or anyone else in your home a hug. And most of all, give yourself a hug because you deserve it!
One thing you need to be sure of before you go out and hug it out today, is make sure you have nice and soft skin! Nobody wants to get hugged by an alligator, so you better get a good lotion to make those arms nice and soft. One of my favorite companies has always been Crabtree & Evelyn. The iconic company got its start back in 1972 and was inspired by the 17th century botanist John Evelyn and the English Crabapple tree, which is known for its beauty as well as its use in home apothecaries. Although it began as a small fine soap company, it has grown into a world renowned go-to destination for bath and body, fragrance and soaps for men and women.
I was sent the deliciously creamy and olfactory titillating products from the Pomegranate, Argan & Grapeseed line. I received the body lotion, bath and shower gel and the pièce de résistance , the age defying hand remedy. All three products came in a cute little carrying bag and I literally use them every day. My skin is smooth, soft and smells wonderful and I am happy to hand out as many hugs as possible today! You can purchase the Evelyn & Crabtree products from stores which carries fine bath and beauty products. One USA reader will win a Hand Therapy Skin Care Tote $35.
Who are you going to hug to celebrate National Hug Day 2014?
my hubby, my sons, my pets… I’m a hugger everyday-life is too short.
Crabtree & Evelyn is one of my very favorite brands to spoil myself with. Love them!!! Thanks for the chance to win Jennifer. I really hope I win because I haven’t had the chance to try the Pomegranate yet.
Hugs…Tracy @ Cotton Pickin Cute
Happy National Hug Day! I love the idea of a special day to remind us to connect with a warm hug. Hugs are healing, and the elderly and kids in hospital truly appreciate them.
Elizabeth
This would go to my daughter. She is a police officer and her shin is so dry in this cold weather she actually has scabs. Thanks for the chance.
Oh wait, today was National Hug day….aww dang I guess I will have to hug extra people tomorrow LOL thanks for the ideas on how to celebrate National Hug Day.
I had no idea it was National Hug Day! Fun! A reason to get more hugs out of the little ones 😉
I’ve been working on hugging more! We never did it much growing up but I’m getting better!
Alright for national hug day! I will make sure to give those I love plenty of hugs and snuggles today!
I’m sorry to hear that your parents, and then you, did not get the benefits of tons of affection when you were growing up. I had a fair bit of affection for part of my childhood, and then pretty much became the family black sheep. The sudden change in my ‘value’ in the family like that was devastating emotionally.
Aww, hugs are great I hug my kids every day. How fun that there’s a national hug day!