21 January, 2015

Give the Cook a Hug

Comments : 5 Posted in : Dessert on January 21, 2015 by : Cook Plate Fork Tags: benefits of hugging, cookie with a hug, give the cook a hug, Hug, hugging, hugs, National Hug Day, national hugging day, reasons to hug

Today is National Hug Day (USA), though there is no decree from Congress as such. One is always needed to make it official.

But still, hugs are loving, caring, therapeutic, and celebratory.

Happiness Weekly  writes this about the benefits of hugging:

– More upbeat moods
– Reduce heart rates
– Lower blood pressure
– Increase nerve activity
– Reduce levels of cortisol (stress hormone) if they are over 20 seconds long
– Increase levels of oxytocin (bonding hormone)
– Boosts the immune system
– Builds self esteem
– Alleviates tension and releases endorphins
– It’s portable and it doesn’t cost a thing!

Here’s a great Hugging recipe we found at Food.com that you can prepare yourself, or hand the recipe off to your favorite cook or chef to bake.

Cookies With a Hug

1 (18 ounce) box devil’s food cake mix (preferably)

2 eggs

1/2 cup vegetable oil

24 -36 Hershey’s Hugs chocolates (unwrapped)

Directions:

Combine all ingredients together.

Mix well.

Batter will be very firm.

Drop on ungreased cookie sheet by the teaspoonful.

Bake in oven of 350 degrees.

Bake for 8-13 minutes.

Press a hug in the middle of each cookie.

Chocolate will melt in the middle.

Let cool.

After thoroughly cooled, dust with a tiny bit of powdered sugar (optional)

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According to Holiday Insights, this is the origin of National Hugging Day…

National Hugging Day was created in 1986 by Rev. Kevin Zaborney from Caro, Michigan. Strangely, this day is copyrighted. One would think that hugs should be given freely and without recourse. Regardless, we are thankful to the Reverend Zaborney for creating this day and would love to thank him with a  great, big hug.

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If your one of those people always looking for a good deal, like me, hug’s are FREE!!

Go out and give someone a hug. By the way, Give the Cook a Hug as well.

What Others Are Reading About:

• National Hugging Day: Most Huggable Character is Baymax from Big Hero 6
• Visual Wednesdays #19 : International Hug Day
• Wrap Your Arms Around National Hugging Day Today – Brian’s Blog
• Celebrate National Hug Day By Experiencing The Health Benefits Of A Warm Embrace
• HugTrain rolls into Portland, offers free hugs