DID YOU KNOW THAT TODAY IS "NATIONAL HUGGING DAY"? YEP, THAT'S RIGHT! COME ON BY, STOP IN AND JOIN STEVEN & FRIENDS TONIGHT WITH WARRIORS FOR LIFE (WFL)!

Join our Volunteer, Air Force Veteran, Peer Support Specialist, and Writer/Author STEVEN BATES TONIGHT, for the "Mid-Week Musings!" edition of Warriors for Life (WFL) Online, sponsored and presented by Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV).

We are asking everyone to share who we are and what support that Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV) is providing via WFL. If you know someone who is a veteran, first responder or a family member/caregiver, please ask them to join us for at least one meeting so they can learn more about what we do and how they can share their wisdom with others who may be able to learn from them.

TONIGHT's Topic: "NATIONAL HUGGING DAY!"

"Today is National Hugging Day! Yes, I know, normally, veterans and persons with PTSD aren't much of a hugger group, but let's look at the benefits of hugging for a quick second. For one, there is the feeling of bonding that one gets from a hug. Hugging brings you close to another person, into the personal space, which is normally a forbidden zone. It indicates trust to bring another in to a hug, to accept the trust of another when giving a hug. Secondly, science has actually proven that hugs can trigger the release of oxytocin, bringing a feeling of happiness and connection. Granted, hugging is not an easy feat for some of us, and it takes work to fight the unease of being held by another, particularly not a spouse or loved one, and even hugging them is difficult at times, just ask anyone with teenagers. The benefits of hugging, though, far outweigh any negative aspects."

Giving a hug helps mental health by triggering feel-good hormones like oxytocin (bonding), serotonin (mood), and dopamine (pleasure), while simultaneously lowering the stress hormone cortisol, reducing anxiety, and fostering feelings of safety, connection, and self-esteem. This neurochemical response calms the nervous system, promotes relaxation, and provides a powerful non-verbal sense of support, which is especially beneficial during times of stress or loneliness.

NEUROCHEMICAL BENEFITS

Oxytocin Release (The "Cuddle Hormone"): Promotes bonding, trust, and feelings of love, reducing stress and anxiety.

Serotonin Boost: Elevates mood, combats depression, and brings feelings of happiness and calm.

Dopamine Release: Induces pleasure and satisfaction, contributing to overall well-being.

Cortisol Reduction: Lowers levels of the stress hormone, leading to less anxiety and better sleep.


PSYCHOLOGICAL & EMOTIONAL BENEFITS

Reduces Stress & Anxiety: A hug can slow your heart rate and calm your body's stress response.

Fosters Connection: Provides a powerful, non-verbal way to communicate care, empathy, and belonging, combating feelings of isolation.

Boosts Self-Esteem: The positive hormonal changes can make you feel more confident and good about yourself.

Grounding Effect: Anchors you in the present moment, which is helpful when feeling overwhelmed or detached.

PRACTICAL TIPS

Duration Matters: Even short hugs (5-10 seconds) can be effective, with longer hugs (around 20 seconds) offering deeper stress relief.

Consent is Key: A hug's benefits rely on it being a mutual, positive interaction.

Alternative Touch: For those who dislike hugs, a hand-hold or back rub can provide similar comfort.
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Join Air Force veteran, author, and Peer Support Specialist Steven Bates tonight with the Warriors for Life Mid-Week Musings as we discuss many more benefits of hugging on this, Jan 21st, National Hugging Day 2025.


Warriors for Life (WFL) Online "Mid-Week Musings!" edition presented by Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV) — Wednesday (TONIGHT), January 21, 2026, @ 4:30 PM PT, 5:30 PM MT, 6:30 PM CT, & 7:30 PM ET

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/ [login to see] 6

Thank you,

Steven Bates,
Air Force Veteran, Writer/Author, Peer Support Specialist,
& Volunteer Facilitator, Victory for Veterans, Inc.


- - - - - - - - - - - - - - “Honor & Respect Always — Warriors for Life!” - - - - - - - - - - - - -


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