Hug Somebody Today.

In the past few weeks, I have seen random acts of hugs. Friends walking arm and arm. Parents as they squeeze their children tightly. Couples lost in a deep embrace.

I realize that might sound totally creepy but I promise it isn’t. Hugs are not something I necessarily pay attention to but for some reason, I’ve caught numerous people participating.

These encounters serve as a reminder of how important connection and interaction is to the human experience. How much we all yearn to be seen, to be heard, to be loved.

As a yoga teacher, I try my best to assist and adjust my students during our yoga practice. Not only does it develop and advance the student’s practice, it might be the only time they were touched all day. And that is not uncommon.

Many of my students know that I am a huge fan of adjustments in savasana. These assists help the student relax into the final moments of our time together. I want them to feel acknowledged, honored and appreciated.

As a society, why have we become so disconnected from one another? It seems like everybody is so immersed in his or her own lives, it is hard to see when others may be hurting or that they need a little more love, support or attention.

Last week, I heard a story on NPR about the development of various navigation systems in our lives and how much we begin to rely on them.

The founder of a company called Split called in to discuss his new invention. Referred to as the un-social network, Split helps you avoid unwanted social encounters. The app curates user check-in information on various social media platforms and literally diverts you away from any users you don’t want to see (insert the ex of your choice: ex boyfriend, ex girlfriend, ex husband, ex wife, ex boss, ex co-worker-you get the idea…)

Keep in mind that I think this business model has a ton of red flags but if they were to succeed, I am concerned for our society. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason so why would you try to control your life that much?

Maybe your old boss has a new company and wants you to be a part of it. Perhaps you can view an encounter with an old flame as a good thing. You might not get back together but you can offer a warm greeting and move on with the rest of your life knowing you had the strength to show up fully and completely.

Drop the ego and allow the unexpected to occur. You never know what might happen so why not experience the pleasantry of utter surprise.

Go on and cuddle up to someone you love or hug somebody new. DO IT NOW!

This is one of my favorite shots from my time in Rishikesh, India. I’m saying goodbye to a new friend before she departs back to Delhi and I embark on my adventures across northern India.