I was wondering what on earth I was going to do for this challenge, because I've already used up the ones I loved and the other ones I have I want to save for later. Then I thought of this... HUGS!!! When you hug somebody, it boosts your happiness levels. And that's not just some wishy-washy statement, there's actually scientific research to back it up.
Good, 20-second hugs release oxytocin, a hormone that calms the nervous system and boosts positive emotions. It can lower blood pressure, cortisol (the stress hormone), and can increase your social connections. A hug also releases endorphins, the body's natural painkiller, which soothes and calms us. (source: happyologist.co.uk)
So, your challenge is going to be to give 3 top-notch hugs. Make someone's day a little brighter- and your own in the process! You may want to tell them it's a challenge though, or the 20-second thing could prove to be difficult.
Hug Criteria:
- Must give out 3 hugs to 3 separate people!
- They must be strong (although not asphyxiating) hugs
- They must be at least 20 seconds long
Love always,
Em xx
Good, 20-second hugs release oxytocin, a hormone that calms the nervous system and boosts positive emotions. It can lower blood pressure, cortisol (the stress hormone), and can increase your social connections. A hug also releases endorphins, the body's natural painkiller, which soothes and calms us. (source: happyologist.co.uk)
So, your challenge is going to be to give 3 top-notch hugs. Make someone's day a little brighter- and your own in the process! You may want to tell them it's a challenge though, or the 20-second thing could prove to be difficult.
Hug Criteria:
- Must give out 3 hugs to 3 separate people!
- They must be strong (although not asphyxiating) hugs
- They must be at least 20 seconds long
Love always,
Em xx