"A hug is like a boomerang – you get it back right away"
Every year on January 21, we celebrate National Hugging Day, a heartwarming holiday dedicated to sharing kindness, love, and connection through the simple yet powerful act of hugging. The purpose of this day is to remind us of the emotional and physical benefits of human touch and to encourage meaningful connections in a fast-paced world. Whether with family, friends, or even a beloved pet, a warm hug can brighten someone’s day and spread joy like nothing else.
National Hugging Day was first promoted in 1986 by Kevin Zaborney, who felt that society often overlooked the importance of physical affection and emotional expression. By creating this holiday, he sought to inspire people to embrace one another and foster a culture of caring. Since then, the day has gained popularity worldwide, becoming a gentle nudge to pause, reflect, and connect.
Celebrating National Hugging Day is simple and meaningful. Start by giving hugs to those close to you—family members, friends, or coworkers. For a fun activity, organize a "hug-a-thon" in your community or workplace, or create a “free hugs” station to spread cheer. Schools and families can participate by sharing books or stories about kindness and connection, then following up with craft activities like making hug-themed cards or drawing pictures of people embracing. Even if you're not physically present with loved ones, virtual hugs through kind messages or video calls can bring smiles.
On this special day, let’s embrace the universal language of affection, remind others that they are valued, and share the joy that a simple hug can bring. After all, in a world that often feels divided, the power of human touch can bridge gaps and build stronger bonds.
Five delightful books about hugs that are perfect for young children include:
Hug by Jez Alborough - This almost wordless book follows a little chimpanzee named Bobo as he searches for a hug. With its simple and repetitive text, it’s ideal for early readers and emphasizes the importance of love and connection.
Porcupine Hugs by Belle Brown and Alejandra M - This is a heart-warming picture book about friendship and finding a way to show love even to those most different from us.
Hug Machine by Scott Campbell - Meet the Hug Machine, a little boy who gives the best hugs to everyone and everything, no matter the size or shape. This fun and endearing story shows the power of spreading love through hugs.
The Giant Hug by Sandra Horning and Valeri Gorbachev-This story features Owen, a piglet, who wants to send his grandmother a hug through the mail. The whimsical adventure highlights the joy of giving and receiving hugs, even from afar.
Bear Hug by Katharine McEwen - A sweet story about a bear who loves giving hugs, this book teaches young readers about the seasons and the special bonds we share with those we love. Its poetic text and lovely illustrations are sure to captivate little ones.
Happy National Hugging Day!
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