Embrace

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary definition, the verb "embrace" means to clasp in the arms. It's a hug.

Me? Physical touch is my #1 love language. But maybe that's not you. Just the thought of "embracing" someone makes you feel totally drained of all energy.

As a non-physical touch person, what are other ways you can embrace those around you?

Embrace is also used a word for cherish, or love. I'll let you non-huggers in on a secret. Even simply tucking your cold toes under us super-huggers, or a pat on the shoulder goes a long way in making us feel cherished without you having to expend the vast amount of energy required for a full clasp in the arms.

Somehow, many people in my life are non-huggers. I have learned that even these small acts can still be draining.

So we still need some other ideas. Let's keep looking at the definition of "embrace".

Embrace: to take up especially readily or gladly; to embrace a cause. This can be applied in so many ways! Maybe you are a marathon runner raising money for charities. You've embraced the extreme challenges with training and pushing your body to an extreme. Or perhaps you are a grad student who has flung themselves headfirst into a field of study that is making a huge impact in people's lives. Maybe it's the sciences and you're studying cures for cancer, or you're in the arts and your creation is bringing healing to people. I could go on and on.

This form of embracing requires that you are part of something bigger than yourself. You are metaphorically speaking wrapping your arms around a movement, and the movement is made up of individuals. You are metaphorically holding them close.

So maybe one way to show love to those annoying huggers in your life is to embrace something they are passionate about. Dive headfirst into being their biggest supporter! Embrace their cause with them and hold them "metaphorically speaking" close to you.

Personally, I am extremely encouraged by my non-physical touch people when they express interest in my creative endeavors. Whether it's by providing feedback, bringing me coffee, and simply reminding me that what I create has meaning and purpose - it's all incredibly valuable.

My challenge to you for my fellow physical touch peeps is this: find ways to love your non-huggy friends and family that don't involve you smothering them.

My challenge to all you non-physical-embracers is this: discover what is at the core of your huggy friends and embrace their passions with them. But please still remember to hug us sometimes!!