Have you ever gotten hangry? I sure have!
Hungry + Angry = Hangry
When I’ve gone too long without nourishment, I can get difficult and cranky. I become critical of everything, pessimistic about the future, and much more likely to get into a petty disagreement with my partner (especially if he is hangry too)!
Hangriness has taught me that physical needs often surface in emotional ways.
What if getting a hug were just another physical need?
When I’m feeling lonely and unimportant, stressed and overwhelmed – could it be my body’s way of telling me that there is an unmet need I can physically care for?
In those cases, getting a good hug works like magic. Hugging for just 20 seconds releases oxytocin in the body. This powerful hormone soothes the nervous system by lowering cortisol (the stress hormone), reduces innflamation, and boosts my overall sense of connection, wholeness and wellness.
Could it really be that simple?
Build a Wellness Practice Around Hugs
Just like planning out meals and snacks to pre-empt my hangriness, and working the right amount of sleep into my daily routine, it is part of my self-care and wellness practice to get enough hugs and connection in my life.
Looking foward into the week, I have check points for time with friends and loved ones, particularly time that involves physical contact and touch of some kind. Partnered dancing, hugging, petting my dog, holding hands, leaning into each other as we chat, cuddling – all of that helps me meet my optimal daily oxytocin needs. I’m learning to take that practice just as seriously as my diet.
I have a check list for when I feel emotionally out of sorts:
- Eat something
- Drink water
- Take a nap
- Take a shower
- Move your body
- Meditate
I’m now adding one more thing to the list:
- Get a hug