[header] How to know if it is okay to hug someone [title] Observe their body language. [step] Look at whether their feet are pointed towards or away from you. See if they are leaning back and distancing themselves from your or leaning in towards you. 
If their body language indicates a need for distance, you should not try to hug them. However, if they look like they want to hug you and you feel comfortable offering a hug, go ahead and give them a hug.