National Cuddle Day

Categories:: Relationship
Tags:: Love
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every January 6
Holiday emoji:: 🤗

National Cuddle Day warms up the calendar every January 6, offering a perfect excuse to embrace those closest to you. As winter’s chill sets in, this day reminds us of the power of physical touch to boost mood and foster connection. Find your favorite person or pet, grab a cozy blanket, and prepare to snuggle up for some feel-good moments.

Deals
Platforms
Social
Hero
Timeline
Businesses
FAQs
Importance
Observe

Expected National Cuddle Day Deals

While National Cuddle Day isn’t typically a major retail holiday, brands often lean into themes of comfort, coziness, and connection during the colder months. Look for promotions on items like plush blankets from retailers such as Brooklinen or Parachute Home, cozy loungewear from Skims or Lululemon, and even comfort food delivery services like DoorDash or Uber Eats offering discounts on warm meals. Some local spas or wellness centers might offer ‘couples’ packages or special rates on massages for two. Even pet supply stores like Chewy or Petco could feature deals on pet beds and toys, encouraging snuggles with furry friends. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as January 6 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Cuddle Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalCuddleDay. Share heartwarming photos or reels of you cuddling with loved ones, pets, or even a favorite blanket.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalCuddleDay. Create short, fun videos showcasing your best cuddling techniques or funny moments with a snuggle buddy.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalCuddleDay. Post a question asking your community about their favorite cuddling spots or memories.

National Cuddle Day Hero

Jacky Yuen

Jacky Yuen is widely credited with founding National Cuddle Day. As the owner of the Cuddle Sanctuary in Los Angeles, Yuen aimed to raise awareness about the importance of touch and human connection in a non-sexual context. Her work has helped popularize the concept of platonic cuddling and its numerous mental and physical health benefits, making her a key figure in the movement this day celebrates.

National Cuddle Day timeline

1500s

And So it Began

The word “cuddle” first appears in English.

1992

A Machine for Cuddling

Temple Grandin, an American spokesperson for autism and diagnosed with mild autism herself, invents the Hug Machine, which helps to alleviate the symptoms of this condition.

2003

Cuddling Proven Beneficial

University of North Carolina researchers discover that 10 minutes of holding hands and 20 seconds of hugging can reduce blood pressure and heart rate during stressful situations.

2015

The First Cuddle Con

The world’s first Cuddle Convention takes place in Portland, Oregon.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Cuddle Day

Local businesses can embrace National Cuddle Day by creating cozy, inviting atmospheres. Cafes might offer ‘cuddle-up’ specials on warm beverages and pastries, encouraging patrons to linger with a book or a loved one. Retailers selling home goods, blankets, or loungewear could run promotions on ‘comfort kits.’ Even pet stores can highlight products for pet-and-owner snuggles, like oversized pet beds or matching human-and-pet blankets. Highlight the importance of connection and comfort in your marketing.

National Cuddle Day FAQs

When is National Cuddle Day?

In 2027, National Cuddle Day is observed on Wednesday, January 6. This mid-week placement provides a welcome break to prioritize comfort and connection, reminding us to slow down and share affection.

What are the health benefits of cuddling?

Beyond emotional comfort, the physical act of cuddling has measurable health advantages. It’s known to decrease cortisol levels, alleviating anxiety, and can strengthen relationships by fostering feelings of security and trust between individuals.

How many people engage in professional cuddling?

The demand for professional cuddling continues to expand, reflecting a societal need for non-sexual human connection. Thousands of sessions are booked annually across various platforms, indicating a robust and growing market for these unique wellness services.

Is National Cuddle Day a real holiday?

While not officially sanctioned by government bodies, National Cuddle Day is widely celebrated by individuals and organizations promoting well-being. Its growing popularity reflects a grassroots movement to acknowledge the benefits of physical affection.

How to Observe National Cuddle Day

Cuddle up
Many people think they have to be in a romantic relationship to have a cuddle partner. However, this isn’t the case. Loyal friends (and even furry pets) make excellent cuddle buddies.
Schedule a massage
Massages offer very similar benefits to cuddling such as stress reduction and positive feelings of well-being.
Get social
Want to spread the word about National Cuddle Up Day? Use the hashtag #NationalCuddleUpDay and show others how you’re celebrating this feel-good holiday.

3 Reasons To Cuddle More

It can be a full-time job
You can actually pay someone for a cuddle session! Cuddle clinics are popping up around the U.S. — allowing customers to cuddle with a "certified cuddler" in a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space.
It’s important for couples
After researching relationships for more than 40 years, John Gottman found that cuddling is seventh on his list of "Top 13 Things Couples Need for a Great Sex Life."
It may lead to physical healing
Research has shown that oxytocin (the incredible cuddle hormone) can help regenerate muscle tissue in mice (and researchers suggest this may also be true for humans).

Why National Cuddle Day is Important

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.
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 with that person. 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.