Take 7 - Hugs

I'm having problems. I know what you're thinking - what's new, right? I have a friend that is so good about hugging people when she sees them, making sure to let people know that she truly sees them and cares. I want to be more like that, but I feel so odd doing it. No, M, I don't think you are odd for doing it - I just feel odd. I guess it's because it's out of my comfort zone. Now, granted, I hug my family and the people I go to church with when I see them, but those are people I know well. I'm talking about walking up to people you barely know or strangers even and hugging them because you are glad to see them, because you know they need a hug, etc. How do you move your comfort zone? How do you make yourself okay with doing this (and things like it)? Do you practice, practice, practice until you are more comfortable? Do you just have to have that natural talent? Do you have to exude confidence in yourself to make it okay? I don't know. When I feel like someone needs a hug for whatever reason, I generally stand there awkwardly and then walk away. haha
How exactly do I get to the point that I can show my care without feeling like an odd duck? I'm seriously asking this question.