Martin Neufeld, was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He is a classically trained actor from the London Acadamy of Music and Dramatic Arts and spent two years under the tutalage of physical theatre master Jacques Lecoq in Paris. A respected character actor he has appeared in numerous feature films and televison series over the past 25 years.

At the turn of the millennium, consumed by anger, grief and disillusionment he found himself struggling to survive the darkest period of his life, a crisis triggered by the heartbreaking betrayal of a loved one, the loss of faith and the recurring flashbacks of a traumatic near-death experience (NDE). After two years of self-imposed solitude, prayer and meditation his faith was rekindled and he began to heal. His growing desire to live a more compassionate and loving life compelled him to venture forth on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. It was then that inspiration touched his heart and he embarked on a mission to bring tenderness, comfort and loving kindness to the world in the form of “Free heartfelt Hugs”.

Since 2004 he has shared well over 100,000 hugs with people from all walks of life and inspired countless others around the world to follow suite by opening their own arms and hearts to their fellow humans.

Recipient of the YMCA Canada 2007 Peace Medal, Martin Neufeld's innovative and transformative approach to healing, self empowerment and communication through touch, love and gratitude has helped people from all walks of life find deeper meaning and intimacy in thier lives. As an author, inspirational speaker and spiritual healer Martin now travels extensively to share his expertise on the power of touch and authentic communication.