How often do you hug someone?
We are starting a new trend in our house! Everyday we are seeking to hug someone else in the family for 20 seconds. Seems we are all on board and loving it!
Current situation:
We have had a lot of arguing between the kids- Is it a summer thing that causes this? I just don’t get it! We homeschool, so it’s not like they are out of school and just spending too much extra time together… We do this year round!
Anyway…
After a day with many big emotions a few weeks back, I remembered this tip from a college course I took about marriage and family relationships. I explained to the girls about the 20 second hug and immediately hugged them both in the kitchen to calm everyone’s emotions. By-golly it worked!
My love language is physical touch and it just so happens 3 out of 4 of us speak the same language. These 20 second hugs fill my bucket. (Yes, bucket instead of cup… I don’t know where that came from but… I’m sticking with it. 🤷♀️). My oldest says she doesn’t need it, but she still requests one from me everyday. There is something magical about having a simple hug from someone you love and respect. Even if physical touch isn’t your primary love language.
This morning my youngest prompted a hug and didn’t even set a timer. She said she wasn’t concerned if we went over 20 seconds. Woot! This new goal has hit a cord somewhere and it’s working in the exact way it ought to! We are feeling connected. And we WANT to be. Emotions are still a real challenge, but remembering you may have to hug a sister today, is a great reminder that we love each other and can help manage emotions instead of losing them.
I think this will be especially helpful when I’m trying to teach math class. I need a hug before, during and after teaching this subject. Just sayin…
Your turn!
Have you tried a 20 second hug in your relationships? Have you ever heard of this as being helpful?
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