In every hug lies a universal truth: at some point, we all need to feel that we belong, that we matter, that we are loved, that we are alive.
Today is the 8th. Today we celebrate the power of hashtag8hugs. At TOTEM Branding, we believe that embracing—in its broadest sense—is a transformative act. Why do we talk about hugs? Because, like great branding, a hug connects, unites, and leaves a profound imprint.
Here are 8 benefits of hugs that also inspire how we approach branding:
🤗 Emotional connection: Hugs create an immediate and profound bond. In branding, emotionally connecting with people is what transforms brands into memorable experiences.
🤗 Stress reduction: A hug can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone). Similarly, authentic branding builds trust and reduces the anxiety customers feel in times of uncertainty.
🤗 Strengthening relationships: Hugs are a bridge between people. At TOTEM, we believe that brands that “embrace” their customers with empathy and authenticity build lasting relationships.
🤗 Happiness boost: A hug releases endorphins, making us feel good. Brands that generate happiness in their interactions inspire loyalty and admiration.
🤗 Trust building: Hugging is an act of openness. In branding, when a brand is honest and transparent, it earns the trust of its communities.
🤗 Humanization: Hugs remind us that we are human. At TOTEM, we know that the most successful brands are those that present themselves as human, real, and accessible.
🤗 Strengthening belonging: A hug makes us feel part of something bigger. The branding we build seeks the same: to generate a sense of community and belonging.
🤗 Inspiring reciprocity: A hug invites another. A brand that offers genuine value and care inspires customers to respond with loyalty and advocacy.
A hug, like great branding, is not a superficial act; it is a declaration of intention, a way of saying, “I see you, you matter to me.”
At TOTEM Branding, we embrace every project, every client, and every challenge with that same transformative energy. Because in the end, the brands that have the greatest impact are those that know how to connect with what matters most: the heart.
Today, we invite you to give 8 hugs. Because a hug can change your day… and someone else’s. 🤗
