Shall We Replace Handshakes with Hugs?

Summary

The article suggests replacing handshakes with more warm-hearted and sanitary greetings such as hugs, bows, or waves.

Abstract

The article titled "Shall We Replace Handshakes with Hugs?" advocates for alternative greeting methods in place of handshakes, considering them less favorable, especially in the context of the pandemic. The author proposes three alternatives: hugs, which are described as more loving and less germophobic; bows, which convey respect and mindfulness; and waves, which are seen as direct and conveying a sense of motion akin to ocean waves. Citing a study by psychologists at the Goldsmith University of London, the article emphasizes that a longer hug, lasting between five and ten seconds, has a more positive impact than shorter ones. The author invites readers to consider these options as more positive and potentially hygienic forms of greeting.

Opinions

The author is not a fan of handshakes, even before the pandemic.
Hugs are preferred for being more loving and potentially less likely to spread germs.
A study is referenced to support the claim that longer hugs have a positive psychological impact.
Bows are seen as a kind, respectful, and mindful way to acknowledge someone.
Waves are considered a direct and lively form of greeting, mirroring the motion of ocean waves.
The author believes that these alternative greetings could replace most handshakes.

More warm-hearted and sanitary

“A hug is like a boomerang — you get it back right away.” — Bil Keane

Even before this pandemic I was never a fan of handshakes, which is why I think we can skip them for these three warm-hearted ways to greet each other:

A hug is more loving and less germophobic than a handshake. Moreover, psychologists at the Goldsmith University of London “found that a longer hug — between five and 10 seconds — delivered a more positive impact compared to shorter ones.”

A bow is kind, respectful, and mindful greeting. It tells the other person that we salute their souls.

A wave is a direct greeting and gesturing towards another person, conveying the same motion as the ocean waves.

So what do you think? Shall we replace most handshakes with hugs, bows, or waves?