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National Hug Day

National Hug Day on 21st January celebrates displays of affection from bear hugs to the heartfelt cuddle and encourages people to do so in public. The first National Hugging Day was celebrated in 1986 in Michigan in the US but has since expanded to other countries.

Hugging can have incredible emotional benefits and health benefits. The gentle touch of another person releases the hormone oxytocin, which helps reduce pain, stress levels, and eases anxiety. 

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The Effects of Hugging Explained

The positive impact of the gentle pressure of a 20-second hug has been shown to reduce the damaging physical effects of stress by releasing the cuddle hormone oxytocin. It helps decrease stress and transform feelings of anxiety into feelings of happiness.

Hugging is the best way to show your loved ones that you're there to support them. This support can be powerful, as studies have shown that people who give and receive hugs are less likely to get sick from certain illnesses and recover more quickly.


Impress Friends with a National Hug Day Design

Instead of just using the hug emoji, why not use your own design to wish your friends a Happy National Hug Day? Or if you don't mind showing affection in public and hugging strangers,  offer free hugs with your personalized poster.

Here's how to get designing in Design Wizard:

Step 1: In Design Wizard, search for 'National Hug Day' and explore our treasure trove of templates. Or get started from scratch with a blank canvas and search for 'hug' images or 'heart' icons.

Step 2: Make your design elements come together by changing colors and text until you're happy with the result.

Step 3: Save and download your personalized poster. And you're done! It's as quick and easy as that.


Become a Hugging Champion

Find ways to hug as many people as you can on National Hug Day. Meet friends and family or throw a party and hug everyone on their way in. Let everyone know how much you appreciate them and will always be there for them.