The Power of Cuddling

Wednesday, January 6th is National Cuddle Up Day! Did you know that cuddling offers many health benefits? First know that January is usually the coldest month of the year and when that happens, we should all be cuddling to stay warm during this cold with either our mate, friend, or with our pet!

Cuddling releases oxytocin which is a hormone that has tremendous health benefits for you. Besides giving us warmth and fuzzy feelings, oxytocin reduces pain. When the cold has made your muscles and joints ache, cuddling can help reduce those aches and pains.  Oxytocin can help with reduce heart disease, it helps lower your blood pressure, stress, anxiety and calms you.

When a person cuddles with their partner, the oxytocin can also help couples feel happy and enjoy each other's company while helping their relationship become stronger. 

Cuddling with your infant not only develops an attachment and security to you and your loved ones but it also helps a bond develop that effects your child later in their life.  This security helps them in terms of self-confidence, exploration, expression of empathy, social relationships, and the ability to cope with life’s stresses, among others.

Taking care of a pet and cuddling with them is something that everyone needs as well.  If you have a pet, be sure to give them extra attention and cuddles.  If you don’t have a partner, your pet is always there for you, through thick and thin!

For those who can’t be near their loved ones, a virtual hug via social media will have to do.  For those who are in your bubble, enjoy your cuddles and all of the benefits that come along with it!

Happy Cuddling!