It’s 2017. January has come and gone. Was going to a November Project workout a goal of yours? WE HOPE SO!
I still remember my first workout (Insert Scooby Doo squiggly lines) and we travel back to July 1, 2015 …
My friend has been trying to get me to go for a handful of weeks and 530am is early. Like so early, especially when I don’t work until 10am. There’s so much sleep to be had. However, it was Canada Day and she knew I would have the day off and therefore, could return to my amazing cloud like bed and go back to sleep. So she picked me up in front of my place, I appropriately wore red and white as per the instructions I found on FB and we headed to QE Park. As we collect our water bottles and are about to leave the truck, she spurts out “OH, BY THE WAY, THEY HUG!” (insert a cackle) They do what now? Hug? Hug? HUG? Hug strangers? But, but, but my pristine little bubble will be invaded! OMG, what is happening?! I received hugs that day, however, I was apparently doing it “wrong” or not according to NP standards and was promptly called out for it in front of 100+ people. Good thing Graham and I had such a great rapport… hahaha… Don’t poke the Mel Bear…
Here’s the thing, HUGS ARE ACTUALLY GOOD FOR YOU. Much like the workout you come for, there are many benefits to hugging too! (And laughter – but that just comes with the territory of these workouts. I mean, it’s stupid o’clock in the morning, brains aren’t functioning or mouth holes – hilarity always ensues) Ok, HUGGING – there’s some science behind how hugs can help heal sickness, disease, loneliness, depression, anxiety and stress. At NP, we HIPS IN hug, but a proper healing hug comes from actually pressing the hearts together. But hey, we can do both – An H&H Hug (Hips AND Heart)!
1. The nurturing nature of a hug builds a sense of safety and trust which can lead to open and honest communication. At NP, we try to create a safe, positive environment which is inclusive of EVERYONE. And although we are not counsellors, as leaders, we want people to know they can come to us and we will listen. There is no judgement.
2. Hugs can instantly boost oxytocin which can diminish feelings of loneliness and anger. We are all in this together – a hug tells you are now a part of the crazy, weird movement of awesomeness where the positivity overflows and the high fives are endless.
3. Hugging for an extended period of time can increase levels of serotonin which will elevate one’s mood and create happiness. Waking up on the wrong side of the bed can be easily rectified with a good 20 second hug. You may show up grumpy, but you won’t leave that way. That’s a guarantee, or your money back.
4. Interestingly enough, hugs actually strengthen the immune system. With a Hearts In hug, the gentle pressure on the sternum stimulates the thymus gland, which is in charge of regulating and balancing white blood cells, keeping you healthy. So not only will the exercise help you stay healthy and fit, but the hugs are the immune boosters!
5. Hugs boost self esteem. As mentioned before, NP is all inclusive and we will welcome you with open arms. Welcome to the Weird!
6. Hugs have similar properties to meditation and laughter in that they teach us to let go and be present in the moment. They have very calming energies – helps you become balanced.
If there was ever a reason to join your local NP tribe, it is now. Look at the good we do! However, we are respectful of people’s boundaries and personal space, and if you’re just “not there yet”, we can high five, Howie Mandel fist bump, or even a simple “What ‘Sup” head nod if you’re so inclined.
HUGS & kisses,
Mel G
(Reference: “10 Reasons Why We Need at Least 8 Hugs a Day” by Marcus Julian Felicetti)
Share via socials:
