"Different types of Hugs" (From the illustrated guide to Free Hugs)
The A-Frame Hug occurs when two people stand at a fixed distance, lean their heads in towards each other and wrap their arms around each other’s shoulders. The two bodies do not come into contact, except for heads on each others’ shoulders and hands on each others’ backs.It’s a great way of getting to know someone without overstepping their personal boundaries
Photo Opportunity Hug is for the world to see. It occurs when the hugger and huggee stand side by with their arms around each other and smile for a camera or any other audience. There’s a personal bond there that doesn’t need a camera or an audience to re-affirm how special this hug is.
The Cuddle requires a complete absence of space between the two huggers, bodies pressed together with their arms thrown right around each other. A cuddle is a firm yet forgiving hug and is a physical manifestation of love between people. A Cuddler is someone who makes you feel comfortable.
The Man Hug is a fusion of a handshake and a hug. It opens with a handshake as the huggers lean towards each other. With their free hand they pat each other on the back vigorously, before separating quickly. Nothing says brotherly love like a Man Hug.
The Lift and Spin Hug is an advanced hug, not for the beginner or the faint of heart. The hugger lifts the huggee off the ground and spins them around, twirling them in a circle before returning the huggee to the ground. Think of it as the merry-go-round of hugs! The Lift and Spin Hug is a memory maker.
The Koala or Side On Hug looks a lot like a Koala clinging to a tree. One hugger stands side on to the other, their shoulder resting against the chest of the person hugging them, so their bodies form a ‘T’ shape. A Koala Hugger always wants to share themselves with you.
The Surprise Hug can be given to anybody with their back turned, whether they're sitting, standing or kneeling. People who give this hug are looking to affectionately surprise somebody or to show their appreciation for somebody, without recognition, without invitation and without excuse.
At Arms Length Hug huggers hold each other’s arms at the elbows while smiling into each other’s eyes. This is an excellent way to maintain a close level of contact with somebody after hugging them, while continuing a conversation. An At Arms' Length Hugger doesn’t want you to leave.
The Group Hug is a life affirming experience. Think of a riot. Now imagine the happy alternative, a group of people piled together, with arms around each other and laughter in the air. A Group Hug is a free form, free for all, hug for three people or more. The more the merrier! A Group Hug leaves you feeling like a part of something amazing, with the knowledge that you’re surrounded by some awesome people.
The Bear Hug involves the hugger grabbing the huggee around the arms and squeezing them as tightly as possible. Sometimes, the enthusiasm of the bear hugger can lift the huggee right off the ground! A Bear Hug can be one of the most comforting hugs of all. It tells you that the person hugging you can keep you safe and watch over you.A Bear Hugger is a protector.
The Arm Hug one hugger latches onto the arm of another person, hugging their arm instead of the whole body. The Arm Hug is most commonly used by children or partners in an effort to get their parents' or partner’s attention as a method of sharing something the hugger has found interesting. People will also use this type of hug in an attempt to keep up with their partner. An Arm Hugger will follow in your footsteps.
Theres no better way to understand the importance of hugs than to be deprived of them.
