12 Ways to Celebrate National Cuddle Up Day
Settle in for a night of guilt-free relaxation.
Though I just discovered National Cuddle Up Day this year, I think it’s earned a spot in my top five favorite holidays. It’s not every day you’re given a totally legitimate reason to hit the sofa at 5 p.m. — and stay there all night. There are health benefits involved, too. Cuddling releases the hormone oxytocin, which reduces pain and gives you the warm fuzzies. And when it’s this cold outside, we could all use a dose of the warm fuzzies.
I’m sharing 12 ideas to make your cuddle sesh top notch. So, beat the cold temperatures and embrace #nationalcuddleupday.
Pull Out All the Faux-Fur Things
Pottery Barn
Cuddling requires all the fuzzy, furry, soft things you can find. Locate those faux-fur blankets and pillows, and put them to good use. Lacking in the faux-fur department? Do some online shopping while you’re at it.
Simmer Stovetop Scents
Cook up an aroma that’s as warm and sweet as your snuggle session. Try one of our 11 easy stovetop scent recipes.
Light Candles
©iStockphoto.com/topotishka
Candles create instant ambience. Their soft glow will help set the tone for a relaxing evening.
Make Warm Cocktails
Add Brandy and Serve
Before serving, add brandy , then gently reheat the mulled wine until right before it begins to simmer.
Photo by: Flynnside Out Productions
Flynnside Out Productions
Take the chill off with some toasty, tasty cocktails.
33 Cold-Weather Cocktail Recipes
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Make Soup or Stew
A cozy night in calls for a hearty bowl of soup or stew. Try one of these five healthy recipes that won’t interfere with your New Year’s resolution.
Put Your Slow Cooker to Use
Crock Pot Hot Chocolate with Marshmallow Man Topper
Step 1 - Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot Set slow cooker to the low or warm setting. Combine all ingredients for hot chocolate into the slow cooker and stir together.
Photo by: Brian Patrick Flynn, FlynnsideOut
Brian Patrick Flynn, FlynnsideOut
If you’d rather not move from your sofa, throw dinner or dessert (because I won’t judge you for eating dessert in place of dinner on a night such as this) in the slow cooker before you plop down. Get 12 easy, delicious slow cooker recipes.
Hang String Lights
Cozy Family Room Features Playful Lighting
Whimsical lighting steals the show in this cozy family room. Behind the sofa, string lights gracefully adorn the wall, and above the armchair, a lighted art installation adds a cool, crisp pattern to the space.
Photo by: Claire Esparros for Homepolish
Claire Esparros for Homepolish
Feeling a bit sad about taking down your holiday decor? Consider hanging string lights like these for a cozy but stylish living room update.
Decorate Your Mantel for Winter
Jessica Wangelin
I have this slightly obsessive quality where I can’t quite relax in a space until I’m satisfied with the decor. If you happen to share this compulsion, you might want to decorate your mantel for winter before you cuddle up. Or you might not, which is totally fine, too.
22 Winter Mantel Decor Ideas
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Make Scented Pinecone Fire Starters
DIY Pinecone Fire Starters 03:29
If you have a fireplace, you should most definitely have a fire (see next idea). And if you’re going to have a fire, you should most definitely make these scented pinecone fire starters. Because, scented pinecones = yum.
Have a Fire
Pink Eclectic Living Room With Fireplace
Natural light fills this bright, eclectic living room that combines Hollywood Regency elements. The brick wall with fireplace and mirror become a focal point when flanked by custom built in bookcases and space for firewood.
Is there anything cozier than a crackling fire in the fireplace?
Cuddle Up With Your Dog + Cat
Fall Color Palettes Include Blue and White
These sophisticated color combinations are current, yet welcoming and familiar, just like the season.
Photo by: Flynnside Out Productions
Flynnside Out Productions
National Cuddle Up Day is the perfect day to love on your furry friends.
Knit Something While You’re Cuddled
While you’re curled up on your sofa binge-watching Netflix, keep your hands busy with a knitting project. Or, get started on that 2017 resolution and read a new book. Whatever you do, enjoy those cuddles!
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