National Cuddle Up Day #NationalCuddleUpDay falls on January 6 for a very important reason. Since January has some of the coldest temperatures of the year, it’s a great excuse to warm up by cuddling with those closest to you! Plus, if you’ve got a fireplace and cozy blankets, it’s even better. And if you have a dog (or cat) or a few dogs (or cats), it’s even better than better.
Do you really need an excuse to cuddle up with your dog? No, but here are some facts about cuddling you might find interesting.
It’s good for your health
Cuddling isn’t just comforting for the body; it’s also extremely helpful for the mind. Cuddling releases dopamine — a chemical in the brain that helps improve focus and memory. SO, cuddling actually has some medicinal benefits. After cuddling your favorite pooch, you may even remember why you walked into that room and what you were looking for.
It makes you feel good
Cuddling is effective for warming your body (and your heart) thanks to the oxytocin it releases. This “feel-good” hormone offers tremendous health benefits, like giving us the “warm fuzzies” and reducing aches and pains. Oxytocin also reduces heart disease, lowers blood pressure, and even decreases stress and anxiety. So, no matter when you cuddle up, you’re bound to benefit from these mood-boosting side effects.
It strengthens relationships
Cuddling with someone enhances your bond. Even if you’re not verbally communicating, this type of contact helps increase feelings of trust, comfort, safety, and reassurance between cuddle partners. These feelings can also remain long after the cuddle session is over.
So there you go. Of course, people with dogs don’t need a special day. We cuddle with our dogs as often as we can.
