January 6 is National Cuddle Up Day
If you’re like us, you don’t need someone to establish a national day just to tell you to cuddle up with your favorite furry friend. Whether you’re cuddling your dog on your couch, or snuggling in with your cats in your bed, there are a lot of good reasons to cherish this day and make it a weekly thing instead of an annual one.
Cuddling reduces stress – both for you and your animals!
A quick google search will tell you all you need to know about the benefits of cuddling with your furry companions. #1 on the list is of course it reduces stress. Human beings are social creatures and we need the love, affection and touch of other humans in our lives. It might surprise you though that your pets long for this as well.
Many animals form bonds through touch and your dogs and cats are some of them. Ever noticed how your cats are always rubbing against you? Wonder why you wake up in the morning surrounded by your animals (well at least we do!). But just like humans, not all pets will look forward to your giant hug to squeeze the remaining air out of their lungs. Watch the body language of your animals and work into snuggling and cuddling slowly so they learn to trust you and value the time.
You’ll sleep better if you cuddle – well unless your partner is a furnace!
When you’re cuddling a human or a furry companion, it can reduce Cortisol levels for both of you. This is one of those stress hormones that keeps you in fight or flight mode. So by reducing these hormones you’re lowering your stress level and allowing your body to sleep better. Cuddling also increases your oxytocin levels. Oxytocin relieves stress and anxiety and can sometimes be called the “bonding” hormone. Oxytocin can reduces blood pressure and heart disease risks as well while just touching another person can strengthen your immune system.
Cuddling up when you sleep can give you that sensation of touch while you sleep further reassuring you that you can relax and get some well deserved rest while it boosts your immunity. Amazing isn’t it?
Show us your favorite cuddle photos.
So come on, show us your favorite photos of you and your furry family cuddling together. We need some feel good time!
