The origin of the hug.
You may think of the hug as only a
touchy-feely greeting. It may surprise you to learn that the hug actually
originated in Egypt as a way for men meeting strangers to check for swords
hidden under their long robes. It continues in modern day as a “Let me pat you
down” weapons check in many Arab greetings.
It is only in the last century
that the full frontal hug has morphed into the embrace showing warmth and
affection. This full face-to-face hug shows others that we trust them and are
willing to give them ready and full access to our vulnerable heart.
