The power of hugs BY ANNETTE PERKINS
“Grandma, hold me a little longer.” What happy, magical words. Grandkids and hugs just go together, like PB&J. Blessed is the relationship where they are sought and given, with equal gusto. Seems impossible not to smile while you hug. It just brings out the joy.
There are times, in the life of a grandchild, when a grandparent’s hugs are dismissed or rejected. Should you avoid hugging then? Give it up? Put it on hold?
Here is a Consider This story about hugs and what makes them so special.
This show was inspired by that outstanding philosopher – Charlie Brown. In a moment of pure insight, Charlie Brown recited – “I love the kind of hug where you can feel the sadness leave your body.” Me too, Charlie, me too.
When someone gathers you up in their arms and holds you tight, it can just wash away every guilt, concern or worry you have been feeling. And when things are going well, a hug is a welcome gesture of friendship and affection.
I have a friend who I get to hug every week. We attend the same organization meeting and I can tell we both look forward to the moment when we will share that embrace.
I joyously watch my children hug their children and see the kids reciprocate; even the teen agers.
I did some research and found that hugging is extremely effective at healing sickness, disease, loneliness, depression, anxiety and stress. Well no wonder it feels so good!
A deep hug, where the hearts are pressing together, is nurturing and provides a sense of safety. Perhaps most important, hugs boost self esteem. They are an extension of the touch we received as infants, meant to show that we are loved and special, even before actual words could be exchanged.
Do the world a favor. Deliver hugs often and with gusto. I will too.
About the author:
Author and radio personality Annette E. Petrick has lived in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia for more than 25 years. That means she is ALMOST accepted as a local. She shares her days between writing and recording her daily radio show and enjoying life in the country with her husband, Bill. With a career as a nationally recognized public speaker, the essence of her work has always been the spoken or written word. She combined those skills into a unique 90 second radio show. Her insightful short stories first went on the air in 2006 and are still broadcast daily. Consider This with Annette Petrick has also become a website, a blog where readers and listeners can comment and leave their opinion, an iTune favorite and a weekly inspirational email to subscribers.
