Transparency Note: We love a warm embrace, but we also love warm blankets. This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you buy a cozy item through us, we might earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

If you are feeling a little "January-ish" today—tired, cold, or just over the gray skies—we have the cure.

This Wednesday, January 21, is National Hugging Day.

It sounds like a made-up holiday (and technically, they all are), but this one actually has medical benefits.

Manny, our resident tuxedo-wearing penguin, is a big fan. Penguins huddle to survive the Antarctic winter. You just need to hug to survive a Wednesday.

Here is why you should embrace the embrace today.

A Little History: Why January 21st?

National Hugging Day wasn't created by a greeting card company. It was founded in 1986 by Kevin Zaborney in Clio, Michigan.

Zaborney observed that there was a massive slump in spirits between the high energy of Christmas/Hanukkah and the romance of Valentine's Day. He noticed people felt low, lonely, and frankly, a bit cold in late January.

He chose January 21st specifically because it sits right in the middle of that "Winter Slump." His goal? To encourage family and friends to hug more often.

(Fun Fact: He originally thought the idea would fail. 40 years later, here we are).

3 Ways to Activate "The Hug"

1. The "20-Second Rule" (The Science)

A quick "pat-pat" hug is nice, but it doesn't change your brain chemistry.

• The Fact: Scientists suggest that a hug needs to last 20 seconds to release Oxytocin (the bonding hormone) and lower Cortisol (the stress hormone).

• The Move: Catch your partner, your child, or your best friend today. Hug them. Don't let go. Count to 20 out loud.

• The Result: It will feel awkward at second 5, funny at second 10, and deeply connecting by second 20. Try it.

2. The "Long Distance" Hug

Can't reach your favorite person today?

• The Move: Send a "Digital Hug." But don't just send the 🤗 emoji. That's lazy.

• The Bridge: Send a voice note. Hearing your voice activates similar emotional centers in the brain as touch. Say, "I'm sending you a squeeze for National Hugging Day."

• The Gift: If you really want to bridge the distance, send them a Weighted Blanket. It is literally a hug you can buy on Amazon.

          Shop weighted blankets on Amazon

3. The "Self" Hug (Cozy Mode)

If you are flying solo or just need some self-care:

• The Move: Create a "Warmth Station."

• The Setup: Hot tea, your favorite sweater, and a book.

• The Manny Tip: We recommend a "Mug Hug"—wrapping both hands around a hot ceramic mug. It warms the hands and soothes the soul. (We have some great mugs in the shop if yours are looking chipped!).

Why We Love This Holiday

It costs $0.

It requires 0 prep time.

But it changes the entire vibe of a household.

So, go find someone and give them a squeeze. Tell them Manny sent you.

Who is your favorite hugger?

Is it your toddler (the knee hugger)? Your spouse (the bear hugger)? Or your dog (the wiggle hugger)?

Show us your National Hugging Day moments! Tag us on TikTok and Instagram @OnManyOccasions—we love seeing the love.

Don't Miss the Next Moment

Today is for hugs, but tomorrow is for PIE.

Yes, really. National Pie Day is Jan 22.

Download our Free 2026 Celebration Calendar so you never miss a delicious excuse to celebrate.