A hug( 拥抱) is a form of human touch that happens when two or more people hold each other closely. People hug for many different reasons in their lives. For example, if a child is sad, a parent may hug him or her to give comfort. Grown-ups may hug to show each other love. Friends may hug to show friendship. Members of a team may hug after winning a game to show happiness and encourage other team members.

Hugs may seem unimportant, but hugging is a necessary human need. For example, hugging is important in building human relationships. When a person is given a hug, he or she feels loved and important. In this way, it creates a sense of trust, belonging( 归 属 感 ) and safety thatencourages open communication and understanding with others.

Hugging also has many health advantages. For example, hugs can be good for people’s heath. Research has shown that hugs can lower the risk of getting a cold as well as lower worry levels. Giving and receiving hugs can also make people happier.

Finally, hugging can even save lives. In recent years, doctors have found that it is best when a baby is held soon after being born. It keeps the baby warm and helps keep his heart rate stable(心率平稳). Besides, these babies feel safer and seem to be happier. Sometimes, a hug from a mother can save the life of her newly-born baby who is dying.

Knowing the importance of a hug, one man started the Free Hugs Campaign in 2001. It was an act of kindness to show that everyone is an important person. Giving hugs to unknown people who wanted or needed a bug became popular in society. Now, the month of July is known as International Free Hugs Month.

Someone once said, “We need four hugs a day for living on. We need eight hugs a day for holding on. We need twelve hugs a day for growing up.” There may not be many people who give out 12 a day. But for all it advantages, maybe it is something we should all do more often.