A New Year’s resolution

 A New Year’s resolution.

Dear Friends and Colleagues welcome to 2025 and our first blog of the year. It is actually a little bit late as the focus is about New Year’s resolutions. As the chimes sound the start of January many make a commitment to doing something different. They normally start with statements such ‘I am going to give up …..’ “I am going to get ……’ We can all fill in the blanks.

Well as we approach the start of the Chinese New Year we can look forward to the year of the snake. On the 29th January people will be looking forward to a year filled with wisdom which the Chinese associate the snake.

So combining Western ideas with oriental thinking I am going to suggest that for 2025 our collective resolution is to give something. Something simple that can really change peoples lives. That thing is a cuddle, hug or just to hold hands. At a time when more of society is feeling isolated it would be great if we could all practice this most effective form of interaction.

Frequent hugging and hand-holding can help to lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke. Hugging can boost self-esteem.

Hugging can be described as a handshake from the heart. The simple action of embracing creates feel good energy for both the giver and recipient. Science has been looking into its positive effects, and numerous studies relating to hugging, cuddling and touching have been reaching the same conclusion – hugging is a crucial part of human development.

When you hug, touch or sit close to someone you care for your body releases oxytocin which scientist called the ‘cuddle hormone’. This hormone can help relax and lower anxiety which in turn can effectively lower blood pressure. It boosts heart health. When people hug for 20 seconds or more the feel good hormone oxytocin is released which creates a stronger bond and connection between the ‘huggers’. Oxytocin has been shown to boost the immune system and help to reduce stress.

So start hugging your partner, family members and friends. Then look for safe respectful situations where you can offer someone a hug. 20 seconds could mean so much to so many people. 

Happy hugging. Actually thinking about it can make you feel warm and fuzzy!