Zaborney started the movement when he was just 24 years old and felt there wasn’t enough public displays of affection in the world. Since its Jan. 21, 1986 launch, others countries have joined in the hug-fest as well.
He chose Jan. 21 because it was between holidays, and being post-Christmas and New Year’s, he thought people tended to be lower in spirits, according to his hugging website
The idea of National Hugging Day is to encourage everyone to hug family and friends more often. People should ask before giving hugs, Zaborney says on his website.
Zaborney is sometimes called the Ambassador of Hugs. He is a reverend, living in Michigan with his wife Pamela.
Click here for more information about Nation Hugging Day.
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