During this month, as we honor the Love in our lives and within our hearts, may we practice the Attitude of Gratitude. Gratitude creates a powerful state of happiness because it returns us to the natural place where we notice what’s right instead of what’s wrong. Every day this month, may we discover and distill a sense of gratitude in every aspect of our lives.
May we be mindful that Valentine’s Day is not just for lovers, husbands, and wives. It is for those who dearly touch our lives. This month especially, remember to take take the opportunity to tell all of those you hold dear how important they are in your life.
It is proven scientifically that hugs, which are actions of communicating love, have the power to heal.
Love is the greatest healer of all. It is the essence that nourishes our souls. One of the greatest gifts that man has is the ability to hug, to embrace someone. Of all the acts that our two hands can be utilized for, the act of giving someone a hug must be among the most powerful.
A hug can release endorphins in the blood that can make a person ‘feel good’. It can lower the heart rate and blood pressure, reduce the production of cortisol (hormones that are secreted during stressful periods), and thereby improve one’s immunity against disease.
An article in Reader’s Digest (May 1996) called “The Rescue Hug” details the first week of a set of twins. Apparently, each was in its respective incubators, and one was not expected to live. A hospital nurse fought against the hospital rules and placed the babies in one incubator. When they were placed together, the healthier of the twins reached out an arm over the sister in an endearing embrace. The smaller baby’s heart stabilized, and her temperature rose to normal.
Make it a point every day to let those that you hold dear know that they are loved.
