Handshake

Unsplash photo by Cytonn Photography

One custom that fell out of favor during the Covid-19 pandemic was the handshake.

Fist bumps and knocking elbows were the most common replacement as bowing never caught on in our area.

After three years, I'm a bit out of the habit of shaking hands but it is increasingly common these days when I meet someone.

The practice is traced back to Roman Soldiers in 5,000 BC as a way to check if the person extending a hand might be hiding a dagger or other weapon in their sleeve.

My friend in college, Andy (no, not the Andy I've written about in previous blogs), liked to shake hands.  A firm grip, two shakes, and done.  A good handshake is quite satisfying.  Over the course of my adult life, it was part of the ritual saying hello.

Just as Covid-19 took hold, part of social distancing meant no more handshakes.  It was an awkward transition that now feels normal.  

Incrementally, the handshake is coming back, at least for those who appreciate the custom.  It's OK to keep hands at your side or offer a fist or elbow instead.

Limp handshakes are not my favorite, but it is important to know the person whose hand you are shaking.  They might have arthritis or another issue that might inflame in a strong grip.  If that's not the case, a firm grip is best.

You might want to seek people out with your hand outstretched today because it's National Handshake Day but carefully.