The Science of Hugging

Hugs. First, let's talk about hugs in general. Whether you know it or not, giving a hug  is communicating a message. A hug is the most basic form of physical contact, yet is crucial in defining your relationship with another person. Hugs send a variety of messages from "Hey friend" (side hug) to "So good to see you! Its been forever!" (running head start hug). Most of the time hugs show affection and make a person feel warm and fuzzy inside. Then again, there are always those few..the awkward hugs....

Who hasnt ever had an awkward hug? Exactly! No one...

This is what my friend Beth Moore and I came up with when discussing hugs.

How to avoid awkward hugs:

1) Assess the situation.
2) A hug is a two way street, so determine which one of you is the most confident, the hug initiator.
3) Once you've determined who is passive and who is the go getter, allow the more confident person to take the reigns and initiate the hug.
4) If you are the initiator, decide what message are you trying to give off. (Friendly sidehug, Bestfriend bearhug, Extended Tight Squeeze, etc) What are you trying to communicate with them and vice versa. Is it a causal hello, friendship, deep love and affection?
5) Whether you lead or not, make a decision and stick to it. Whatever you do, dont change your mind! If you are going in for a sidehug, stick to it. When done correctly the other person will most likely follow through and feel comfortable.
6)After this first hug, the rest should effortlessly flow because you have established your relationship. Now you have a signature hug with that person.

Lastly, dont overanalyze or overthink this. It should be natural.

Hope this helps for all of you who needed clarity on this important subject matter.

Thought this was appropriate on National Hug an RA day!