First of all, thanks a lot to 
Among my friends and family are found multiple treehuggers and, as far as I can remember, I have seen people hugging trees of all sizes in all kinds of locations... Over the years, it is always at least for the sake of a grounding healthy vibration left in the "treehugger" that such phenomena is continuously observed. The Japanese culture well aware of multiple benefits of forests over humans even have a name for the effects of "bathing in forest" or "taking in the forest atmosphere": shirin-yoku.
The rejuvenating, restorative and calming effects of forests are well known and scientifically very well documented too: Boosting of the immune system, reduced stress and blood pressure, improved moods, better focus even in individuals with ADHD, improved sleep and energy levels as well as propensity to heal from surgeries or illnesses, etc, etc, etc.
This very special "treehugger" here has enraptured my body & soul and seemed to have had the same effect on this giant Sitka Spruce as well! On that day, at the end of our road, we stopped and lunched before heading down to the beaches found near Botanical Beach, near Port Renfrew, Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The giants found along the path are stunning in presence as well as in stature. Maybe next time you hug a tree you can make a test for you and your friends/family that are long: Make mental notes of the feelings that are rising when you hug one specific tree and, after everyone has hugged that tree, share among yourselves what the results of it are...
The results will probably blow your mind. Enjoy the learning, calming and so on!