The Hugging American

Biography of Jackie Samuel

Jackie Samuel is a 29-year-old American woman who has gained fame for her unique business of selling hugs. Born and raised in Rochester, New York, Samuel believes in the healing power of touch. She charges $60 per hour for a session of cuddling in her cozy home.

Samuel's journey into the world of professional hugging began a few years ago when she and her sister decided to have some fun and sell their hugs on the streets of New York City. To their surprise, they earned around $800 from their venture. Soon after, Samuel started receiving numerous letters from people across the United States who were inspired by her idea and even encouraged her to start a social movement.

Research has provided ample evidence of the positive impact physical contact with another person can have on both physical and mental health. However, American culture tends to view touch as something more intimate and rarely openly embraces hugging as a form of affection compared to many other countries in Europe, Africa, Asia, Central and South America. As a result, Americans often experience higher levels of stress and aggression compared to people from cultures where gentle touch is considered normal.

Determined to help Americans realize the benefits of strong hugs, Samuel now practices around 100 different cuddling positions. She firmly believes that hugs contribute to physical and spiritual well-being, as well as bring joy. Currently, she imparts her expertise to new employees in her company, where clients include men and women of all ages, retirees, war veterans, and more. Samuel reportedly earns about $260 per day, with around 30 people using her services each week.

However, Samuel's unusual business comes with its own set of challenges. Many people often wonder if clients develop desires to escalate the sessions to a sexual level. From the start, Samuel established strict rules, with one of them being, "No sex, only hugs." At the slightest suspicion that a client wants more, Samuel tries to have a conversation to remind them to respect boundaries.

Before each session, Samuel conducts a mandatory conversation with her clients to assess their mental state. She emphasizes that hugging is only allowed while wearing pajamas and that clients are not permitted to touch any parts of her body hidden beneath her undergarments.

Studies have shown that during hugs, the brain releases more serotonin and oxytocin, both of which contribute to calmness, happiness, and a sense of well-being. Touch has also been found to reduce stress and anxiety for up to five days, which are known to worsen various physical and mental disorders. Hugging can lower blood pressure, making it a valuable tool in preventing and treating many illnesses. Additionally, tactile support has proven to be more effective than verbal support when dealing with high heart rates.

Officially established in the summer of 2012, Jackie Samuel's business has gained attention for its unique approach to physical and emotional well-being. She continues to advocate for the power of hugs and aims to spread her message to help individuals lead healthier and happier lives.

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