Cuddle Up Day Is Here!

January 6th is National Cuddle Up Day!

The cold, dark winter months have arrived for those of us who reside in the Northern Hemisphere, and it is awful. Shorter days and increased darkness can bring on some serious winter blues.

Well, today you have an excuse to stay in your warm bed!

A (very) brief history lesson:

The word cuddle originated in the 1500s, and people would snuggle with one another to keep warm and stay cozy even then.

In1992, a machine made for the job was created by none other than Temple Grandin. The ‘Hug Machine‘ is sometimes used in sensory rooms to help calm autistic children.

In 2003, researchers at the University of North Carolina discover that 20 seconds of hugging can significantly reduce blood pressure and heart rate.

Since then there have been numerous studies on the benefits of cuddles. In fact, the act of cuddling releases oxytocin, a feel-good chemical found in the brain. It is this oxytocin release that initiates the pleasurable feeling that occurs when we snuggle up with our partner.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a partner, we’ve got the ‘purfect‘ solution…

Snuggling with pets produces similar results to cuddling with a human.

Why celebrate Cuddle Up Day?

  1. Cuddling is good for your health.
  2. It makes you happy
  3. It helps strengthens relationships.
  4. Cuddling helps to combat depression and anxiety.
  5. It just feels good.

How to celebrate when you’re alone:

Cuddle Up Day
Photo by Sachina Hobo on Unsplash

Cuddling is not just for couples. In fact, you can celebrate even if you are single.

You can snuggle with a friend or a beloved pet. Additionally, you can hire a cuddle buddy in some cities. Yes, (Google it) there are services you can hire if you want someone to snuggle.

If you are not comfortable snuggling with a stranger or your pet goldfish refuses to keep you warm, you can celebrate this day in numerous ways.

For example, you can get a massage, take a bubble bath, listen to some calming music, and light a few candles. Spend the day doing what makes you happy and relaxed. The entire point of this day is to relax and let your stress fade.

If you are really into Cuddle Up Day, there are events you can attend…

Cuddle Up Day Events

Each year there is a big Cuddle up day event to attend. The Cuddle Up Day celebration will be online this year.

With cases of Covid-19 on the rise, many people are not comfortable cuddling in person. However, many still want to celebrate Cuddle Up Day. Thus, I encourage you to cuddle up virtually by attending the annual Cuddle Day event.

The Cuddle Up Day online event consists of calming music, guest speakers, various led meditations, and group exercises to help you connect with your cuddle buddies. There will also be group games, free time, and even a lullaby.

Entry is by donation, and your invitation will arrive by email.

Get more information and tickets here.

How will you be spending #NationalCuddleUpDay?

Until Next Time,

Cuddle Up and Keep Warm.

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