Whether they’re a family member, friend, crush, or partner, your hugger might squeeze you extra tight to show you that they’re there to keep you secure. Men tend to love the hug from behind because it triggers their hero instinct, or their desire to care for and be needed by their partner. If there’s a guy in your life who likes to hug from behind, lean into his protective arms to show that you appreciate him.

You’ll know that this hug means your hugger’s in love with you because they will cuddle you for a minute or longer and rock you from side to side. They’re telling you with their hug that there’s no one other than you for them. You can hug your crush or partner from behind to show that you love them too! Whether you’re shorter or taller than them, simply press your chest to their back and wrap your arms around their waist or torso. Deepen the hug by resting your head in the crook of their neck or against their back.

You’ll know this hug means they want to joke and play because they’ll catch you with it when you don’t see it coming. You might be talking on the phone, folding laundry, or just walking around the house when they give you this hug.

Your hugger might show that they trust you by giving you a quick, tight squeeze and allowing you to lean deeper into their arms.

In this comforting hug, your hugger will usually pat or rub your back to soothe and console you.

If you haven’t seen your hugger in a while, they will typically give you a tight squeeze and hold the hug for longer than normal to soak up your presence.

Romantic hugs are generally warmer than platonic hugs. You will likely feel the love and affection radiating from your hugger. If the hug is friendly, only your upper bodies meet. These hugs are usually very quick with minimal squeezing. An acquaintance or friend who you aren’t very close with might even hug you with only one arm.

Your partner might spin you around so that they can give you a romantic, front facing hug. Wrap your arms around their neck or waist and squeeze them close to you. Rest your head on their chest and relax into their arms.