A hug is like a boomerang – you get it back right away.  ~Bil Keane, “Family Circus”

Good morning!  According to WebMD, schools of nursing began teaching their students about the value of the human touch decades ago and 2006 research published in the professional Psychological Science has proven what the nurses knew all along; a human touch can soothe a lot of jittery nerves.

Psychologists, too, have noted the effects of human touch and healing, and an article in the fall 2005 issues of Families, Systems & Health discusses how many cultures have used this healing touch in healing ceremonies.

It’s wondrous what a hug can do.
A hug can cheer you when you’re blue.
A hug can say, “I love you so,”
Or, “Gee, I hate to see you go.”

A hug is “Welcome back again!”
And “Great to see you!”
Or “Where’ve you been?”
A hug can soothe a small child’s pain
And bring a rainbow after rain.

The hug! There’s just no doubt about it,
We scarcely could survive without it.
A hug delights and warms and charms,
It must be why God gave us arms…

Hugs are great for fathers and mothers,
Sweet for sisters, swell for brothers.
And chances are some favorite aunts
Love them more than potted plants.

Kittens crave them. Puppies love them.
Heads of state are not above them.
A hug can break the language barrier.
And make the dullest day seem merrier.

No need to fret about the store of ’em.
The more you give, the more there are of ’em.
So stretch those arms without delay
And give someone a hug today!

Anonymous

Your Turn: The first full week of May is celebrated as National Hug Holiday Week. Celebrate by extending hugs to those whom you are close to.

Today’s Affirmation: I openly show affection to those close to me.

Going further: Visit www.hugs4.health.org to learn more about National Hug Holiday Week.