In the high-speed stress-filled world of today, we need all of the support we can get. One of the easiest ways to give and receive support is through a simple hug lasting 5-10 second. These are not romantic embraces. They are friendly contact, and research strongly suggests that this kind of non-sexual physical contact is essential for both physical and emotional health. Here is just one of many articles listing some of the many ways hugs are good for us, based on research.
Are you an Emotional Support Human? Do you feel comfortable giving people hugs when they are feeling down? Do you want to make the world a little bit softer, warmer, more welcoming and supportive? Then the first version of our shirt is the one for you. Available in five colors, our “Emotional Support Human – Hugs by Request” shirt is a fun and clever way to let people know that you are available for giving and receiving hugs. It is inspired by the patches worn by emotional support animals.
Before starting, I recommend setting expectations by asking “do you want a two-second, five-second or ten-second hug?” Research suggests that 5-10 second hugs are best. Shorter than 2 seconds doesn’t feel like a hug, and more than 10 seconds starts to make SOME people uncomfortable.
If a person makes YOU uncomfortable, offer 2, 3 and 4-second hugs. You also have the option of saying, “I’m so sorry, I’m just not up for a hug right now, can I give you a smile instead?” The shirt says, “By Request” not “On Demand.” Keep in mind, though, that those might be the people who need the hug the most.
If you do decide to decline to give them a hug, make them feel valued anyway by asking them how their day is going, and offering other kinds of emotional support.
If you like being supportive, but rarely feel comfortable giving strangers hugs, or if you work in a place where our HUGS T-shirt would be inappropriate, then choose our Black or Royal Blue “Emotional Support Human At Work” version. They are the ones with the blue circle.
Remember, the goal is to be supportive, not just rack up hugs. There are many ways to do that, which is why we offer both versions of the shirt.
Be prepared to offer spiritual support as well. Some may want to tell you about what they are going through. (This is not the T-shirt to wear if you are going to be in a hurry all day.)
You can also offer them a physical symbol of support with one of our many teaching cards and prayer cards. “Created thee Noble” is great for people who are feeling down. “Ways to Praise the People You Love” gives them positive ways of seeing themselves. “WeR1 Family” tells them why you are so open to supporting people. Or carry a dozen of our Affirmation Cards, and let people choose the one that lifts their spirit.
We also have small “comfort booklets” like “When You’re Down and Troubled” and “Tell Me about God’s Love for Me” that might be the perfect thing to offer after a heart-felt hug.
As for the shirt itself, this is one of our Print-on-Demand extra-soft ring-spun cotton shirts. They are custom-printed when you order them, so they are not returnable unless they are defective, so check our size chart before ordering. They will be shipped separately from the rest of your order.
.: Made with 100% ring-spun cotton, a lightweight fabric (4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²)), this unisex t-shirt feels like a bliss to wear all year round.
.: The classic fit with the crew neckline deliver a clean, versatile style that can match any occasion, whether it’s formal or semi-formal. The shoulders have twill tape for improved durability. There are no side seams. The collar is made with ribbed knitting to prevent curling damage.
.: All shirts feature a pearlized, tear-away label for total wearing comfort.
.: Made using ethically grown and harvested US cotton. Gildan is also a proud member of the US Cotton Trust Protocol ensuring ethical and sustainable means of production. This blank tee is certified by Oeko-Tex for safety and quality assurance.
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