Hug It Out… Lose Weight.

We might have figured out why the guy in the Dave Matthews’ video was soliciting for hugs…

By Blair

To lose a few lb’s.

Family therapist Virginia Satir theorized we need 4 hugs a day to survive and 8 to 12 to thrive. Chances are most of our hug quotas aren’t up to par (let alone thriving). So how are we dealing with this lack of affection? Theories suggest being touch-deprived can translate into self-nurture – one being overeating.

According to WebMD, 75% of overeating is caused by emotions. We try to control our feelings by filling the void with indulgent goodies. So, if the theory is true, more hugs could possibly mean a slimmer waistline.

Besides, a possible factor to melt away some body fat, hugging has other benefits too. Increasing your daily hug intake can dramatically lower blood pressure and each hug boosts blood levels of oxytocin (a relaxing hormone).

Before you become a serial hugger, take a look at our hug tips to get the most out of your public displays of affections.

• Generally hug friends and people you know – After all, we’re not looking for stalkers.

• Don’t make hugs sexual – Make them say, “I care” instead.

• A nurturing hug lasts at least 5 to 10 seconds – That’s 5 times the length of the usual hug.

• And lastly, you can’t take a hug, only give them.