National Hugging Day is celebrated every year on January 21. Created in 1986 by Kevin Zaborney in Clio, Michigan, the day was strategically placed between Christmas and Valentine's Day to combat the "post-holiday blues" and encourage people to show more emotion in public.
Quick Facts &
Traditions
- Founder: Rev. Kevin Zaborney,
who chose the date because he felt January was a time when emotional
energy often drops.
- The "Golden Rule": Always ask for
consent before hugging, as not everyone is comfortable with
physical touch.
- Health Benefits: Science shows that a
20-second hug releases oxytocin (the "cuddle
hormone"), which can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve
heart health.
- Global Reach: While it started in
the U.S., it is now celebrated internationally in countries like the UK,
Germany, India, and Australia.
- Most Huggable Person: Each year, the
official National hugging Day website names a "Most Huggable
Person."
