Hug a Stranger
With things like the Free Hug Campaign, Hug Patrol, and Hug Club, people are getting inspired to give the gift of a genuine friendly hug to a stranger, to brighten their day! However, most people are unsure how to go about hugging random people! So here's a step-by-step guide.
Steps
- Make or get a sign (or shirt) that says "FREE HUGS" or "I need a hug".
- Find a busy public location. The more people there are, the more people there are to hug. Note that if you choose a place that's owned by someone (such as a shopping mall) it might be a good idea to get permission first.
- Make eye contact with people, smile, and ask them if they'd like a free hug. If you're lazy or shy, just smile at people and wait patiently for them to come up to you and offer you a hug.
- Give warm, platonic hugs. That means you wrap your arms around a person over their shoulders or just below their arms and maybe pat their back gently a few times. Try to avoid touching people below the waist, and there's no need for your hips to touch, either. Wait until they let go, unless you get creeped out because you think they're trying to cop a feel.
- Say thanks and wish them well.
Tips
- Take a shower and apply deodorant before embarking on this task. It'll make more people more comfortable with hugging you. Body odor can be distracting.
- Don't rest your head on their shoulder or stroke up their back because it can make them feel uncomfortable. Just a light warm hug is fine!
Warnings
- Don't hug children without their parent's or guardian's permission.
- Don't try to forcefully hug anyone.
Related Articles
Sources and Citations
- http://juanmann.wordpress.com/2009/04/06/how-to-offer-free-hugs/ - Research source.
