Why Hugs?

Day 1:  11 Mindful Hugs

I have officially begun my journey to explore happiness.  After coming to a crossroads, I have made it my mission to find out what it really means to be happy.  I have compiled my extensive list of books and articles on this subject and will be diving into many projects and activities over the next year.

The first book I picked up was Happiness:  Essential Mindfulness Practices by Thich Nhat Hanh.  I flipped open the book and landed on Hugging Meditation.  The practice seemed simple enough, so I decided to give it a try.

By lunchtime, I had given 7 mindful hugs.  The first to an acquaintance I have met only about 5 times.  The second and third to former co-workers I hadn't seen in years, but I just happened to run into them on the street.  The fourth to a former co-worker with whom I had previously been angry.  (Perhaps the Universe put him in my path on purpose...well, of course that is what happened!)  The sixth hug went to a young intern.  The seventh to the cute guy in the coffee shop who happens to be a very good hugger, thankyouverymuch.  Hugs 8 and 9 went to strangers in the coffee shop.  Number 10 to my dear friend who I just don't get to see often enough.  The final hug of the day went to my long-lost childhood friend with whom I have only recently been reunited.

In his book Happiness, Thich Nhat Hanh writes that hugging with mindfulness can bring reconciliation, healing, understanding, and much happiness (p. 82).  Being fully present during each of the hugs today brought me a profound sense of connection to others.  I could feel the people receiving the hugs relax with each exhale.  I began to realize what a gift I was giving them, and in turn giving to myself.  How wonderful it was to connect with some of my dearest friends in such a warm and comforting way!  I noticed that I actually felt more energetic and happier throughout the day.  Maybe there is more to this than I first thought.

I quickly realized that this is the beginning of a very interesting experiment.  What if I aimed to give 500 hugs over the next 30 days?  Looking back over the years, I don't think I have given 500 hugs in my entire life.  I haven't been the most affectionate person, but maybe I could be.  Thus, 500 Hugs was born.

I will be tracking how many mindful hugs I give each day.  I will also note whether the hugs are with friends, family, acquaintances, or strangers.

Thanks for coming along with me on this journey.  If you run into me over the next 30 days, don't let me get away without giving you a hug!