SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Holidays can be stressful but sometimes all that’s needed is a hug.
ABC10’s John Bartell headed to the Sacramento International Airport on Christmas Day to see what a hug really means to travelers this holiday season.
If you’re looking for a hug, like a *really* good hug, the airport is the place to be. Hugs are everywhere, like at the arrivals pickup on the first floor where you’ll often find the food old-fashioned ‘grandpa hug.’
Up on the second floor you’ll find people flying out for future hugs. Little Mason was unsure about his trip to Colorado until he was reminded who he was going to see when he got there – his father.
Studies show hugging increases your feelings of belonging. They also boost oxytocin in the brain which promotes human connection.
Little Torren didn’t know it, but the fast-moving tram was about to connect him and his mom Alisha to his aunt Jessica.
Holiday travels can be stressful, but probably not as stressful as Ryan’s trip. He’s in for a quick hello and goodbye hug all in the same day.
“I am a graveyard bartender and I flew here this morning at 10 a.m. I am here just for the day to see my mom and brother then I am back,” he said.
According to his mother, his lost sleep means a lot.
“[It’s] everything, and he is the best hugger,” she proclaimed.
Scientists say a meaningful or memorable hug usually lasts 5-10 seconds and if you ask Mark, he’ll tell you exactly what’s behind a meaningful hug.
“You know it’s that proper connection, both physical and emotional. You don’t need any words for it and you know the person loves you just as much,” he said.
Hugging is also a global gesture, just ask Mathew. He flew in from Brazil and had to get a digital hug from his family.
“My family just called me from Brazil because in Brazil at midnight everybody has a supper and gives each other a hug,” said Mathew.
Hugs can also be sad. John was at the baggage check on the departure level after saying goodbye to his long-distance girlfriend. The two recently discovered love even though they’ve known each other for years.
“After high school we went separate ways and then BAM! Here we are,” he told ABC10.
So whether it’s happy or sad, a hug means a lot this holiday… even if it’s going to a furry friend.
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