The hug, not just for bears anymore: the proper procedures and protocols of The North American Man Hug.

Hello again, dear reader. In yesterday's discussion, we pontificated on the importance of knowing how to deliver a quality handshake to establish a connection and make a solid first impression for today's discussion. However, I thought we could pontificate on the next step above the handshake, which is of course the "hug" this is of course to be used after you've established a rapport and the connection with a fellow individual such as being on a sports team or surviving an ordeal such as being lost in the desert. Not to be fair, before we go much further. It should be noted that today's discussion is intended more for men specifically, than any other gender as men seem to have trouble with more than anyone else. So today's discussion dear reader is going to be about the proper protocols and procedures to deliver a most excellent "man hug." And hopefully by the end of the discussion, you will have a better understanding of the importance of the man hug...

A firm, hearty handshake is always an appropriate way for men to greet each other. But when men achieve a greater familiarity, a man hug becomes appropriate. Some men fear male on male hugging of any kind. But done in an appropriate way, men can still hug while remaining secure in their manhood. Here’s how:

 It is very important to, always, always, always make sure your hug will be reciprocated; all too often. There are men who were a little overzealous with the man hug. This leaves the person being hugged, slightly embarrassed, and unsure what to do next. So take a second to make sure that a "man hug." Is the appropriate response or reaction to your given situation dear reader.
As a final note, some men, especially here in America, are not quite comfortable with the fully embracing style of hugging even when done correctly. Thankfully there is a bridge between the handshake and the bear hug: the American man hug. With the American man hug comes certain protocol and procedure that men haven’t articulated, but nonetheless follow. These unspoken rules allow men to hug each other without feeling like they’re being wussy.

The How of the American Man Hug

1. Begin with a traditional firm handshake
2. Keeping your hand clasped with your buddy, wrap the left arm around the shoulder of your friend.
3. Slap your friend’s back two times. The back slap is key. Somehow hitting your fellow man makes the hug more manly.
4. Release embrace.

When to American Man Hug

Man hugging is not appropriate with every man you come in contact with. It carries with it a certain intimacy that should be reserved for close friends and family. If you were to try to man hug a new acquaintance, you would probably be greeted with stiff awkwardness. However, if you’ve developed a bond after your initial introduction, a goodbye hug may be appropriate upon parting.
Special occasions warrant the full man hug. The American man hug is appropriate for greetings and partings.

As always, dear reader, thanks for listening, and there will be more to come soon.