According to the U.S. National Day Calendar, the 12th of September is National Hug and High Five Day. When I first saw this day listed, I was overjoyed because I enjoy hugs and high-fives. Yet, thanks to a dear friend who reminded me, not everyone appreciates observing this day.

To learn about the origin and celebration of this holiday and ways to celebrate it, click this link. (Also available at: https://nationaldaycalendar.com/new-day-proclamation-national-hug-and-high-five-day-september-12/)

Regardless of where you are in the world, here are eight reasons to celebrate this holiday with proper etiquette in mind and eight reasons to be cautious:

8 Reasons to Celebrate Hugs and High-Fives (HHFs) Day:

1. Promotes positive interactions: HHFs can be appropriate in less formal, more casual environments, such as among family, friends, and some workplace environments. Promoting unity, camaraderie, and positive social interactions through HHF could be a bonus in the workplace.
2. Boosts Mood and Morale: Physical touch triggers the release of oxytocin and endorphins, both “feel-good” hormones that improve mood and morale.
3. Reduces Stress: Physical touch has been shown to lower cortisol levels, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. 
4. Strengthens Relationships: Physical touch strengthens bonds between individuals, whether family, colleagues, or friends.
5. Improves health: HHFs can improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and promoting better heart health.
6. Enhances Communication: HHFs are an excellent non-verbal form of communication, sharing positive emotions and support without using words.
7. Fosters Positivity:  A day dedicated to celebrating HHFs reminds us to pause and take time to spread kindness, inclusivity, praise, and positivity in society.
8. Applauds Diversity: Best of all, regardless of ethnic, cultural, linguistic, and gender differences, HHFs are universally understood gestures that can bring people from different circles in life closer together.
   
   Now, what if someone doesn’t want to observe hugging and high-fives? Let’s explore the reasons to be sensitive and respectful, regardless of a National Day of Touching.

8 Reasons for Caution on Hugs and High-Fives (HHFs) Day, or any day:

1. Gender Dynamics, Personal Boundaries, and Social Anxiety: HHFs can cause anxiety and perpetuate gender stereotypes, invading personal space and damaging relationships. It’s important to respect boundaries and communicate openly about what feels comfortable for each person.
2. Cultural Sensitivity.  Different cultures have varying norms of physical touch.  Celebrating a day of hugs and high-fives may clash with a person’s practices and invade their personal space.
3. Respect and Consent. Consent is crucial for physical touch. Without it could lead to pressure and obligation, resulting in disrespectful and inappropriate situations. Always obtain consent before any physical touch takes place to avoid any misunderstandings.
4. Hygiene Concerns. Aside from the documented health benefits of HHFs, we must stay safe and healthy while still finding ways to connect, especially during high flu seasons and COVID surges.
5. Inclusivity. Not everyone is physically capable of participating in hugs and high-fives due to disabilities or other health conditions. Observing such a day might inadvertently exclude those who can’t partake. Find alternatives in this case.
6. Unwanted Attention and Emotional Status. While HHFs can be uplifting, some individuals may not want to participate in HHFs due to past negative emotional experiences, trauma, or personal preference while going through difficult times. Pushing your interest in touch could lead to feelings of distress and anxiety.
7. Age Appropriateness, Power Dynamics, and Misinterpretation.  In certain situations, especially in the workplace and schools, HHFs may be well-received among peers and friends. It could be less appropriate when involving children or elderly individuals, however. They might see it as distressing or uncomfortable. In professional environments, physical contact can be seen as inappropriate behavior, harassment, or power plays, leading to negative consequences. Adhere to universal professional conduct at all times and follow all company no-touch guidelines and policies. 
8. Intent versus Impact.  Even with good intentions, the impact of encouraging HHFs could differ from what you intend. Some individuals might perceive the event as superficial or insincere rather than fostering genuine connections.  Be mindful of how your actions appear to others.

So, as much as I enjoy observing National Hugs and High-Fives Day, we must all respect individual preferences, especially in the workplace. In personal circles where everyone is comfortable with hugs and high-fives, go ahead and enjoy! Prioritizing a safe and inclusive environment is crucial. As your etiquette coach, I believe in sharing all perspectives to honor everyone’s choices. That’s what etiquette is all about.

Bonus:

Here are two articles from other sources to view on this topic.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/workplace-hugging-dos-mostly-donts-dan-rust/

https://time.com/5379586/people-hate-hugged-science/

Happy Practicing!