National Hug a Bear Day is observed Every year on November 7. You are not advised to go out and embrace real bears on this day; it will be exceedingly risky and might not end well. Hug a Bear Day was designed to raise awareness about the advantages of hugging. We all need hugs. Hugging can make us feel warm, comforted, and, most importantly, loved. National Hug A Bear Day is the ideal time to give a big hug to your loved ones and your adorable teddy bears.
History of National Hug a Bear Day
The origins of National Hug a Bear Day are unknown. But the 1560s verb ‘to hug’ was derived from the Old Norse term ‘hugga,’ which meant ‘to soothe.’ The phrase is also said to be related to the German word ‘hegen,’ which means ‘to cherish.’ ‘To enclose with a hedge’ was the original meaning. The teddy bear plushie is also a part of National Hug a Bear Day. The ancient Egyptians are credited with the invention of soft toys.Although no stuffed toys have been discovered in Egypt, drawings on monuments imply they did have animal toys. Stuffed animals as we know them today were first introduced in 1830, although they were created by hand, out of cloth and straw. In 1880, Germany began producing stuffed animals that were very similar to the cute toys that we still buy today. In the early 20th century, the toy industry grew tremendously. Richard Steiff created a soft stuffed bear in 1903 that was unlike any other rag doll before it, being composed of fluffy furlike cloth. Morris Michtom, inspired by a drawing of President “Teddy” Roosevelt with a bear cub, produced the first teddy bear at the same time in the United States.
National Hug a Bear Day timeline
The verb 'hug' is used for the first time.
Stuffed animals as we know them today are introduced for the first time.
Germany begins the production of stuffed animals very similar to the cute toys that we still buy today.
Richard Steiff creates a soft stuffed bear in 1903 that is unlike any other rag doll before it, as it was composed of fluffy furlike cloth.
The first teddy bear made of easily washable materials is introduced to the market.
National Hug a Bear Day FAQs
Why do bears hug each other?
Bears are fiercely protective of their cubs and their families.
Do bears like to cuddle?
Yes, they certainly do!
What makes cuddling a teddy bear soothing?
People with low self-esteem may benefit from caressing a soft toy since it might help them cope with their fears.
National Hug a Bear Day Activities
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Hug a loved one today
Give a loving bear embrace to the person you love the most first thing in the morning. You can also hug your favorite stuffed animal.
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Purchase a teddy bear
Hugging a plush bear is essential to the National Hug a Bear Day event. If you don't have a teddy bear, go out and buy one from your local store.
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Pay a visit to the zoo
While you should not embrace a real bear today, you should definitely visit one. Plan a visit to the zoo to see the bears. Take photos throughout the day, and share them on social media with the hashtag #HugABearDay.
5 Interesting Facts About Hugs
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Hugs release oxytocin
Hugging releases oxytocin, a hormone that helps you feel connected to people as well as makes you feel good.
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Hugs stimulate
A full-body hug stimulates your neurological system while reducing loneliness and expressing gratitude.
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Hugs are nonverbal communication
Hugging is an important nonverbal way of communication in relationships.
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60 minutes monthly embrace
On average, people embrace for one hour per month.
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Right arm hug Initiation
When going in for a hug, the majority of individuals lead with their right arm.
Why We Love National Hug a Bear Day
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It releases positive energy
Hugging can be described as a heartfelt handshake. The simple act of embracing generates positive energy in both the giver and the receiver. Hugging is essential for human growth and connection.
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Hugging is an effective stress reliever
Find someone you care about and give them a bear hug when you're feeling depleted or stressed. According to studies, embracing someone lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) levels in the body, relieving tension and providing calming impulses to the brain.
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Hugging babies makes them well-adjusted as adults
Touch is essential for the development of infants, especially in their early years. When compared to their hugged counterparts, hug-deprived children had considerably lower levels of vasopressin, a hormone that plays a role in familial recognition and bonding.
National Hug a Bear Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 7 | Monday |
| 2023 | November 7 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | November 7 | Thursday |
| 2025 | November 7 | Friday |
| 2026 | November 7 | Saturday |
