With International Hug Day around the corner, we’re celebrating hugs and everything they represent: warmth, love, and connection. Sometimes, on our toughest days, it can feel like we could use a hug. But why do hugs feel so nice? When we hug, our bodies release oxytocin and serotonin, hormones that reduce stress and increase feelings of trust, happiness and calm. A simple boost when we may need it the most.
For those of us who may not always be able to receive a physical hug, did you know we can hug ourselves?
Mobilise Support Specialist, Karen Steadman, talks us through some simple ways to give ourselves a soothing hug from the comfort of our own home.
The Mobilise community discussed what everyday things can bring us that same comforting feeling of a great big squeeze from a loved one. Let’s dive into 8 things that can feel like a hug. Things we might love our friends and family to do (but might never ask them to).
When someone asks what we need
This kind of question gently nudges us to pause and consider our own needs. Although we might not often find the time to think about this, if at all, having someone ask us what we need can be a gift in itself. It creates space for us to identify what would help in that moment, whether it’s a hot cup of tea, a short walk around the block, or simply a moment to ourselves.
Taking time to acknowledge and meet our needs isn’t just refreshing - it recharges us and helps us show up as our best selves for those we care for.
When someone changes the bed sheets without us asking
A task like changing the bedsheets may seem simple to others, but for us, it can sometimes feel like just one more plate to keep spinning amid everything else we manage every day. When friends or family step in to do it for us without asking, it feels like one less thing to worry about, lightening our everyday load.
“This is the third day out of six that my wife’s bed needs changing due to accidents. It’s never a good start to the day for either of us. I find a lot of my time is spent dealing with stuff like this.”
When a friend offers to visit so we can take a break
For those who are fortunate enough to have supportive friends and family, an offer to visit so we can take a break can make a world of difference. Knowing we can step away without worry because someone we trust has things under control brings an incredible sense of relief and helps us recharge.
If we're struggling to find our support network or communicate with the ones we do have, reading five steps to creating a support network is a great place to start.
When a meal shows up on our doorstep
Whether it’s homemade by a friend or straight from the local take-out, it’s so much more than just food - it’s a gesture of care and love. When someone else takes that task off our plate (though not our dinner plate—thankfully), it feels like a small but significant weight has been lifted and one less thing to think about.
When someone genuinely asks how we’re doing
Though it’s easy to brush off the question, especially when we’re used to putting on a brave face, opening up to someone we trust can be incredibly beneficial. When a loved one genuinely asks how we’re doing, it’s more than just a polite question—it’s an opportunity to let those around us know what we're going through.
“I attended my art group yesterday. What is particularly lovely is that I am asked How am I? How has my week been?”
“I like it when my friends give me the space to be myself, and talk about the things I’ve been through without judging or trying to sympathise with things they can’t understand.”
Our emotions can change by the hour—sometimes we’re managing, and other times, it feels overwhelming. The act of someone listening to us whilst we share what we’re really feeling, whether good or bad, helps lighten the emotional load that we might usually carry alone.
When a friend brings us a latte on their way over
Whether it’s a coffee or a comforting hot chocolate from our favourite café, knowing someone took the time to think of us can lift our spirits. Being able to have our favourite drink can be a moment of joy and care delivered right to us, brightening our day in the process.
When someone else runs errands for us
Whether it’s picking up groceries, grabbing a prescription, or dropping off a parcel, having someone else step in to handle these everyday tasks lightens the load we carry.
It’s the simple things that can make so much difference. Just having one thing off our never ending to-do list, or someone showing us some genuine kindness, can feel like a big hug.
When someone we trust tells us to rest because they’ve got this
While vital, respite can often feel out of reach, whether due to limited availability or the difficulty of stepping away from our responsibilities. But when a trusted person offers to step in and help so we can rest, it feels like a lifeline.
Knowing that things will be handled with care in our absence, brings a deep sense of reassurance. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to take a moment for ourselves, to rest and recharge, knowing we’re leaving things in capable hands. That trust and support can make all the difference, allowing us to breathe and feel a little less alone along the way. Or, we might need a bit of help asking those in our caring circle to help with relief.
It’s always helpful to reflect on what simple things feel like a hug to us. We can also share this blog with our friends and family to help them better understand how to be there for us.
Spread the warmth by sharing what feels like a hug for you in the Mobilise Hub, and help others find comfort too. If you're seeking a bit more support, why not join one of our virtual cuppas? Sometimes, a simple catch-up with others in the community can be just as comforting as a hug.
For more ideas, check out As a Carer, I Like It When and Simple Things That Can Help Us Feel Great.
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