How to Give a Warm Hug
An awkward hug can leave the wrong impression and fail to convey your feelings. Keep relationships warm and cozy with this hug-bestowing advice.
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You Will Need
- Eye contact
- Warm embrace
- Appropriate level of affection
- Gratitude
- Smile
- Pat on the back (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Aim for your target
Make eye contact with your intended target of your hug while extending your arms out and stepping toward them.
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Step 2
Close the embrace
Close both arms around the person, touching their back with both of your hands.
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Don't impose an over-enthusiastic hug on an unwilling recipient by squeezing them too tightly or for too long. Release the person if they seem uncomfortable.
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Step 3
Hug with heart
Hug with heart, which means conveying good intentions and feelings with your embrace. Squeeze the person lightly or firmly depending on whether this level of affection is appropriate for the relationship.
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Add a pat on the back if the person needs additional comforting.
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Step 4
Take your time
Don't rush through the hug. Focus on the embrace and let it fill the moment rather than briskly going through the motions.
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Step 5
Show gratitude
Thank the person you hugged for sharing the affection, especially if you asked to hug them. As you release the hug, smile and celebrate the human connection.
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In 2004, an Australian named Juan Mann started the Free Hug Campaign to reach out and hug strangers to brighten their lives.
