h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Great article!

But I know of two other types (well, maybe they're just classifications) first pointed out (so the story goes) by Theodore Sturgeon at a convention (and brought to my knowledge by the books of Spider Robinson)--the A hug and the #1 hug. Anyone care to guess what they are, before I tell?

'Huggles' were left out of this entry. These are a combination between hugging and cuddling, making for an informal affair designed to express affection. The Huggle is most commonly found in IRC chat rooms.

That is all.

Aye, indeed it is. The Huggle, perfected by many and loved by all.

A 'huggle' is carried out on the huggers part by grabbing the huggee around the waist and jiggling them about. The huggee responds by placing both arms around the hugger and jiggling - but very rarely in time.

The 'huggle' can be continued for any length of time and in any position, although a timespan of about five seconds in the standing position is the most common.

Note: It is often preferable to pounce upon one's huggling partner prior to huggling...so that the full collision-fall-huggle effect can be gained.

*demonstrates on Psybro* :P

-Jenova, Mistress of Huggles.
(Preach it, brother)

The "A" hug is usually seen in male to male hugs, where the two men keep their naughty parts a respectable distance apart so as not to seem overly effeminate in society. Hence the name, the "A" hug. It can also be seen in situations of acquaintances and people on slightly frosty terms with one another. I can recall having a few of these with a girl once, but that's a different story.

The #1 hug is the best kind. It involves full body contact, and is usually seen between those on close terms. The two huggers form a straight line and resemble a number 1. This type of hug is used in situations where the hug is meant to be friendly, or where people are confident enough in themselves to give a good hug withoug fear of other people's opinions.

Hope this sheds some further insight and saves the trouble of another post.

That's it, exactly!

Aww you guys!! you big bunch of hugger ups!! (as opposed to b****r ups)

There is also the side hug, used when the two parties are on friendly, but not-overly familiar terms. Positioning themselves side by side, the taller person places one arm around the shoulders of the shorter person, who in turn puts one arm around the taller person's waist. Both parties then pull the other person toward themselves briefly, making contact only along the side of their bodies.

This hug can be performed standing or sitting, but is not terribly practical lying down.

I think you'll find that's the Just Good Friends ...

There are great perks to the side hug. If one of your arms is occupied at the moment, you can still use the other to hug someone. Also, this is a hug you can imploy while walking.

I come from a family of great huggers so its something that played a big part in my life! There is nothing like the close physical contact with family, relatives and close friends to make you feel all warm inside!!