Happy National Cuddle Up Day! Each year on January 6th, today encourages us to snuggle up with someone for the health benefits and more!
January is typically some of the coldest days of the year, so what better way to stay warm and reap the health benefits of cuddling on National Cuddle Up Day?
Whether it’s a three dog night (a night so cold that it takes three dogs to cuddle up with to stay warm) or only slightly chilly, there are multiple benefits to cuddling with human, canine or other pet.
Cuddling releases oxytocin. This hormone alone has tremendous health benefits. Besides giving us warm and fuzzy feelings, oxytocin reduces pain. So, when the cold has made those muscles and joints ache, cuddling can help reduce those aches and pains.
Oxytocin also helps to reduce heart disease, lowers blood pressure, stress, and anxiety. If it weren’t free, insurance carriers would probably cover cuddling since it’s such a huge health benefit!
Communication is more than just e-mails, texts, or conversation. Physical touch can communicate trust, commitment, safety, and reassurance. This goes for human to human contact as well as human to pet contact. Cuddling expresses all of these things, which are vital to a healthy relationship.
Cuddling also boosts sexual desire. Aside from oxytocin, dopamine is released, stimulating the brain to seek pleasure. However, dopamine also can improve memory and focus.
Don’t have someone to cuddle up with? Make an appointment for a massage. Studies show that a massage provides similar benefits.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Cuddle up with someone you love. Invite your pet up on the sofa for a snuggle session. Schedule a massage. Use #NationalCuddleUpDay to post on social media.
HISTORY
National Day Calendar® continues researching the origins of this snuggly holiday.
#NationlCuddleUpDay
@nichecinema
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