UK designed soft toys created to ‘Spread Love with a Hug’ around the world
Our mission: to design toys that help break down barriers between people, open up hearts, and encourage a culture of kindness, ONE BIG HUG at a time.
Everyone loves a hug, and why not, they make us feel happy (that’s down to the release of the oxytocin hormone) and they help to reduce stress (decreasing our cortisol).
Hugs also let someone know you care without having to say a word! But we’re not always around to give our loved ones a hug. That’s why we designed Snuggleboo, a luxurious soft toy that gives you a hug no matter where you are, relaxing at home, in the car, bus, train or plane.
The Truth Behind Hugs
You probably use hugs to express your love for your family and friends. Maybe you also use them as a way of saying hello and goodbye when you meet good friends. And maybe you haven’t thought further than that about hugs. I mean, what is there to think about? Well actually, there’s a whole science behind them!
Here’s the shocking truth: hugs boost our happiness levels. And scientific research is there to show this. Basically, a good hug is the fastest way for you to get oxytocin flowing in your body. Oxytocin, also known as the “love drug”, calms your nervous system and boosts positive emotions. Here’s how a good hug resulting in oxytocin flow affects you:
- It lowers your blood pressure, especially helpful if you’re feeling anxious.
- It lowers your cortisol (the stress hormone), enabling a higher quality of sleep.
- It can increase your social connections and a sense of belonging.
Because of these findings, it might be no surprise that studies have also shown that couples who hug more are more likely to stay together. Some reports have even shown hugs can reduce pain.
So what’s not to love? Hugs make you happier, healthier and more relaxed – AND improve your relationships!
There’s only one catch: It has to be a GOOD HUG! Which means, it has to last at least 20 seconds.