Episode #39: A Hug a Day...Keeps the Doctor Away!

Summary: On this episode of the ACT to Live podcast, Scott and Jaime talk about their ‘hugging genes’ and the role that hugging has played in their lives over the years. The two then talk about the pandemic and how more people than ever are feeling lonely and longing to embrace their family members and friends. Jaime and Scott wrap up the episode by talking about the benefits of hugging, the science behind why hugs can be so beneficial, and the ideal number of hugs that we need each day to truly benefit. Yep, you read that right - there is an actual recommended number of hugs!  ACTion Event of the Week: Hug it out!! Try giving someone (family, friend, etc.) or something (pet, stuffed animal, etc.) either one twenty-second hug OR eight to twelve hugs per day! How do you feel?  On our next episode of ACT to Live, we’ll explore the power of our mindset. So Come On, Let’s Take a Walk! References  8 Reasons Why You Need at Least 8 Hugs a day. Happify Daily. Accessed 20 January 2021. https://www.happify.com/hd/8-reasons-why-you-need-at-least-8-hugs-a-day/  Dr. Audrey (2020). The Psychological Benefits of Giving and Receiving Hugs And five reasons why you should make hugging a part of your daily routine. Accessed 20 January 2021. https://medium.com/mind-cafe/the-psychological-benefits-of-giving-and-receiving-hugs-96a93284fa3 Ocklenburg, S (2018). Can I Have a Hug? The Surprising Neuroscience of Embracing Science is only beginning to understand how and why we hug. Psychology Today. Accessed 20 January 2021. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-asymmetric-brain/201811/can-i-have-hug-the-surprising-neuroscience-embracing Shanti Das (2019). Hugging for 20 seconds a day may reduce your stress. The Sunday Times. Accessed 20 January 2021.   https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/hugging-for-20-seconds-a-day-may-reduce-your-stress-2zck2d7h6   What are the Benefits of Hugging?  Health Online. Accessed  20 January 2021) https://www.healthline.com/health/hugging-benefits