Need Someone to Hug When the Going Gets Tough?

Consider this unique thought… Do you remember what it was like as a kid to have a favorite stuffed animal to comfort you when you were anxious, stressed, or scared?

Well, it turns out that researchers have found that holding a stuffed animal, even during a group therapy session, can self-soothe not only kids, but also adults.

This simple behavior of hugging can help lower the release of stress hormones in blood and saliva! Lower stress hormones mean less wear and tear on your body and brain – that’s a good thing at any age.

In 2017, a survey commissioned by Buiild-A-Bear found that 40% of people who own or used to own, a stuffed animal reported still sleeping with it.

We know that many adults would be reluctant to admit this, but lots of people/adults still rely on holding a stuffed animal as a coping mechanism when the stress of the day has hit them too hard. So, if this is something you still do as an adult, fear not – you are not alone!

In fact, stuffed animals have gotten more and more sophisticated. For instance, check out the Purrble, a calming toy with a heartbeat and soothing purr! It’s made for kids and adults of all ages.

And, one of us here at Natural Wellness Code found a great stuffed dog for her dog – only to find that the dog had no interest in it, but she finds the soft fur and ability to get a soothing heartbeat and even warming inssert very comforting after a long stressful day!

That one is called the Snuggle Puppy, and it reportedly helps calm down puppies and dogs prone to anxious behaviors. That one is just fine for people too!

Just for fun, learn more about these options – they are a simple way to cope without resorting to overeating junk food or using alcohol or even drugs to feel better when you are by yourself.

Hugs are not just for kids and puppies – adults need them too!