National Hug Day, also known as National Hugging Day, is a day celebrated today, January 21.

While this holiday is officially protected by copyright law, it isn’t a true National holiday, meaning that government, business or banking institutions are not closed on this day.

However, it is a holiday that is being celebrated by an increasing number people and has even spread beyond the borders of the U.S; now being celebrated now by people all over the globe.

Humans are social creatures and as a result hugging offers a myriad of mental and physical benefits to people, as now science is beginning to discover. For instance, hugging can boost oxytocin and serotonin levels, boost self esteem and improve mental health. Hugging has also been shown to improve cardiac health, lower blood pressure and increase relaxation levels in both particpants.

VIDEO: If anyone likes a good hug it’s Rory. Here he is spreading the love…

Hugging is also an important part of relationships.

Partners who hug on a regular basis are more bonded and trust each other more than those who don’t frequently touch. There is also a link between partners who frequently hug and the longevity of their marriages.

Couples who frequently touch each other tend to have longer and happier marriages than those who don’t.

VIDEO: Have a friend who hate hugging? Try these on them!

The best way, as well as the most common way, to celebrate this holiday is give your friends, family or complete strangers a great big hug. It doesn’t matter who you hug on this day, the benefits you receive from hugging is the same.

Share your hug photos with @LetabaHerald’s Instagram Account: letaba_herald  by using #NationalHugDay  with your photos.