A hug is a physical gesture where one person wraps their arms around another person, typically as a sign of affection, comfort, or support. Hugs can vary in duration and intensity, ranging from a brief embrace to a longer, more heartfelt hold. This action is often used to express emotions such as love, happiness, or empathy. Hugs are common in many cultures and can occur in various contexts, such as greeting friends, comforting someone in distress, or celebrating special occasions. Research suggests that hugging can have positive effects on mental health, promoting feelings of safety and reducing stress through the release of hormones like oxytocin.