Discover the World with these Virtual Travel Experiences

By
Sometimes Interesting
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Iceland
Thanks to developments in technology, the ends of the Earth are more connected than ever. People can now enter virtual spaces, experiencing places they’ve never been to before. Even better, these experiences are not just for the adult population. Children, too, can travel the world online. Because of this, we have plenty of experiences to choose from, from VR to online virtual tours around the world. We present to you our top ten choices for the best virtual travel experiences you can enjoy from home.

Top 10 Virtual Travel Experiences 

1. National Geographic Explore VR

If you own an Oculus VR headset, you may find that National Geographic’s VR excursions are just the kind of travel you’re looking for. The exploration experience brings you to otherwise inaccessible areas, like Antarctica, and legendary world locations, like Machu Picchu. The VR experience is gratifying because you aren’t a passive player or limited to a 360-degree still view. Between the two locations, you’ll be kayaking, hiking, and interacting with the landscape. 

2. The Republic of the Maldives​

Tour the world’s largest coral country above and below the sea with this 10-minute narrated tour. And yes, the 360-degree video feature even works during your “deep-sea dive.” With soothing music and incredible aerial and underwater views, you get to experience the Maldives without paying for a thing! The video tour is entirely free.

3. BRINK Traveler

The BRINK Traveler app is designed to be a breathtaking VR travel experience. The 3D real-time footage provides an immersive experience as you trek throughout some of the world’s most well-known locations: Death Valley National Park, Crystal Crag, Antelope Canyon, and much more! You can use a compass to find trails, pick up objects, and collect information for a more educational experience.

4. Grand Tour: Switzerland

Switzerland has organized an immersive virtual tour of its top destinations. It doesn’t require a VR headset, nor do you need to point and move your phone around the room for a 3D experience–all you need is a computer, phone, or tablet and an internet connection. The virtual travel experience lets you visit 12 UNESCO sites, 22 lakes, and five alpine passes (long-distance hiking trails through the Alps). 

5. San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo has much more than a panda cam. You can peek in on the tigers, baboons, penguins, and giraffes, too! This is an opportunity for children to learn more about different species and for you to catch up on some you-time.

6. The Great Wall of China

Discover the Great Wall of China through Discover China’s virtual tour. The free version online consists of a limited view of the Mutiayanu section of the wall, but for $8, you can unlock the full tour. You can also view the Great Wall through VR.

7. Nile Cruise Series

This six-episode virtual tour takes you down the Nile river, guided by a local licensed tour guide. Important stops include the Aswan High Dam, the Temple of Edfu, the Temple of Queen Nefertiti, and the Temple of Dendera. All six tours are free and suitable for children (you just have to make sure you’re awake to match the time zone!) and conducted over Zoom.

8. Historical Enchantment in Tokyo: Asakusa

Through the Heygo platform, you can tour several popular tourist destinations through the eyes of a live tour guide. One of the more popular Heygo sites is the historical section of Tokyo, where you’ll see the main hall of Sensoji Temple, streets lined with paper lanterns, and beautiful Japanese gardens. Signing up for the tour is free, but the website recommends leaving a tip that goes mostly to the guide.

9. North Pole

No, you can’t visit St. Nick (mostly because he’s not alive), but you can still travel to the North Pole! As another AirPano production, the video tour of the North Pole gives you 360-degree views, gentle narration, and stunning views. The water and ice flows glisten in the sun, but boy, does it look cold!

10. Google National Parks

Thanks to Google, we now have the opportunity to explore several of the USA’s national parks virtually. Enjoy the Kenai Fjords, Hawai’i Volcanos, Bryce Canyon, and more from the comfort of your computer, smartphone, or tablet screen.

Travel the World Online!

Virtual travel experiences are redefining what it means to travel. It is no longer just physical transportation; it is an emotional experience. Take advantage of what virtual travel can offer: an affordable way to see the world from the comfort of your own home.

6 Reasons People Love Staycations

By
Sometimes Interesting
backyard tent camping
Staycation is exactly what it sounds like—a vacation at home or close by. As you may have guessed, it’s a combination of the words “stay” and “vacation.” Despite their simplicity, staycations have increased in popularity in recent years for a variety of reasons. It can be just as fun to explore areas nearby as perusing far away lands, and it can be a lot cheaper, too. But are staycations sticking around for good? People take staycations by checking out a nearby hotel for a weekend or taking a camping trip a couple of miles away. Like a vacation, staycations encourage rest, fun, and new experiences. Growing in popularity for the last few years, staycations have caught on for several different reasons.

Why Are More People Taking Staycations?

There are many reasons that people choose to stay near home instead of traveling long distances. Less planning, money, and even less time is required.

1. Employees Have Less Vacation Time Available

Across America, employees consistently have less time off available to them. Because of this fact, vacationers would rather spend their time locally. Instead of a week-long trip that may use up vacation time, travelers are opting for shorter trips. This allows employees to return to work without concerns of delayed flights or jet lag.

2. People Don’t Want to Fly

Vacationers are increasingly choosing not to fly. Concerns over the pandemic, inconsistency of airlines, and long lines at the airport are just some considerations. In many cases, ticket costs are extremely expensive as well. It makes more sense to drive to a more local and possibly more familiar destination for many people. Because of a combination of these factors, staycations are becoming an increasingly popular choice for vacationers.

3. Travelling Can Be Stressful

Travel can be great, but being in unfamiliar territory can be frustrating and stressful. Sleeping away from home, getting lost, and not understanding local languages and customs are just a few of the stresses that vacations offer. You can avoid these stresses by choosing a local staycation instead.

4. Staycations are Easier to Plan

You may have to look around a bit to find some exciting things to do in your area. However, the amount of time you spend researching your staycation will pale in comparison to a full-blown vacation. Stop the stress of looking everywhere for the best deals. With a staycation, the planning is minimal. In some cases, you may not even need to pack or do laundry. Don’t worry about getting the neighbor’s kids to look after your pets. Forget something at home? Go back for it! If you choose a staycation instead of a traditional vacation, you’ll have so much extra time to enjoy the experience. Isn’t that what it’s all about?

5. Staycations Help you Support your Local Economy

Instead of getting pulled into tourist traps on a traditional vacation, stay in a familiar spot. Support businesses that are local to your area by enjoying a staycation. Consider trying a new local restaurant or supporting a local gallery or exhibit. With a staycation, your money stays in the community you reside in and love.

6. They Can Actually Be More Restful

Sometimes, hotel beds and sleeping on the road can leave you feeling achy or tired. With a staycation, your mattress and bed are not far away. If you decide to stay at a hotel instead of your home, consider a buffer day to rest up before returning to work. Your lower back will thank you. Rest and relaxation are two added benefits of a staycation.

What Can I Do On a Staycation?

The possibilities are endless! Consider a local hike or park you have not visited lately. Throw a party for your friends to come by and see you. Sign up for a local class—art, painting, archery, horseback riding. Pick local fruits or vegetables from nearby orchards or farms. You could even plan a special event for your significant other. Make a special meal together, or order from your favorite local restaurant. Most importantly, be sure to enjoy your time away from work and make the most of it. Relax and decompress during vacation time—staycations can make for a more accessible and enjoyable experience.

Playing it Safe: Planning a Socially Distant Stay During the Pandemic

By
Sometimes Interesting
social distancing
Unless you’re a hermit, naturally agoraphobic, or a solitary yogi meditating on a mountaintop, practicing social distancing in the “time of Covid” is challenging for many. That’s because, just like birds, human beings love to vacation together. Socially distant stays don’t come naturally to us. Covid is imposing isolation on us by throwing a big wrench into how we can safely interact the world over. We’re being asked to keep our distance to avoid possible infection for our health. If you don’t want to chance getting sick on your next getaway, then plan a safe trip. Here are some options for socially distant getaways:

Rent a Recreational Vehicle

Renting an RV allows you to maintain control over your private space while surrounded by humanity. You can freely navigate throughout any of the fifty states in America in comfort and style. RVs provide vacationers with a controlled, private, homey environment that keeps you safe and protected — as long as you don’t invite random people inside. Outside and surrounded by vast, open spaces, you can safely commune with your fellow campers while practicing social distancing. 

Rent a Houseboat

Renting a houseboat is the aquatic equivalent of vacationing in an RV. However, instead of being on terra firma, you’re on the water. Nothing soothes the weary soul like being near or on the water. On a houseboat, you have complete autonomy over your space and movements. Whether fishing or soaking up the sun, you can visit fellow boat enthusiasts who happen along all while everyone is bobbing up and down on the water in their individual boats. Distance is easily maintained if a boat full of people pulls up alongside your houseboat. You can visit in your boats respectively and do it safely.

Rent a Tiny House on Wheels

Tiny houses on wheels began as a movement embraced by people who wished to live on a small scale. People are now building tiny houses on wheels to generate extra income as rentals. Although small, ranging on average from 60 to 400 square feet, a tiny house has all the amenities of any home away from home. There’s a place to sleep, a kitchen, bathroom, and living room. These miniature homes can be found all across the world but especially in North America, Europe, and Australia. Frequently they are located in isolated locales away from other people. Using a tiny house as your base gives you the freedom to branch out and take hikes, explore scenic attractions, and go on bike trips. Search online for tiny house on wheels Airbnb.

Rent a Treehouse

Take a page out of a Tarzan adventure novel and rent a treehouse for your next vacation. Yes, it’s true; you can rent treehouses for a socially safe stay.  High up in a tree, you are in a safe, natural, social-distant environment. If there’s a way to pull up the ladder, even better. You are guaranteed to be safe from unannounced people dropping by. Treehouses can be rented online and range from luxurious to bare bones. Pick your price range, your dates, and type in your credit card number. It’s as easy as that!

Book A Plein Air Workshop

For people with a creative side, why not book a plein air (outdoor) painting workshop? Offered throughout the country,  Plein air painting involves trekking out into the countryside with your easel, canvas, and paints. You are usually with a group of people who spread out so you can be alone to paint but not too alone. There’s still a lot of good-natured conversation that can still happen while painting Plein air. Your instructor is always close by to help you over any creative hurdles that may emerge. Plein air painters were social distancing long before the onset of Covid. Many of these vacation options can be researched, booked, and paid for online, thus further cutting down on human contact.

Have a Safe Trip

Nothing ruins a vacation faster than getting sick. Socially safe trips require mindfulness to reduce the possibility of the transmission of Covid. You can still assemble with your fellow man while keeping a safe distance. Doing so protects everyone. And remember! Pack some face masks as an extra safety measure to ensure not only you but your fellow man remains virus-free!

Halo Dyed Hair: Channeling Your Inner Angel

By
Sometimes Interesting
hair highlights
A new hairstyle is an easy way to change your look, giving your hairstyle a fresh, new feel. And your next hairstyle adventure just might involve looking like an angel because this trend is called halo dyed hair.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, the boredom and anxiety of lockdowns have led to more creativity and experimenting with new hair trends. With salons closed, even those not usually up to the task of the DIY hairstyles decided to try out new looks for themselves. And the modern woman is stepping out of her comfort zone, beyond basic styles and colors. After all, if there’s no need to go into the office, who’s going to tell you no? Well, as we step out into the sunshine, it’s time to go big and bold with the latest trends in hair.

What is Halo Dyed Hair?

Plenty of women went with different highlight styles, extensions, or new, edgy cuts. One such trend was the halo light or halo dyed hair. Whether you are a dedicated do-it-yourselfer or plan to return to the salon, we want to give you all the information you need to try this new, angelic look if you’re itching to try something new.  You’ve heard of highlights or low lights to describe hair dye techniques. The halo dyed hair takes away the need to choose between the two. Halo dyed hair is intended to accentuate certain cuts and highlight the face, giving the appearance of a “halo” (hence the name).

How it Works

The technique works light colors throughout the top of the hair, creating a halo effect around the top of the head. It might sound complex, but according to Glamour, the technique itself is actually pretty simple. The idea is to create a more dimensional look since highlights tend to give the hair a more flat, 2D appearance. However, the halo dye technique gives you the appearance of a more voluminous style. Combined with the right cut, it’s a look bound to leave you feeling fresh and confident this year.  To achieve this look, you’ll want to section off your hair into four parts. If you have darker hair, you’ll need to lighten up the strands near the front of the head. This is where you’ll add the blonde. Basically, you’ll section off the top layer of hair and work the blonde into the hairline surrounding the face, accentuating the front of the face. From here, ensure you are following the instructions on the dye, and other than that, it’s fairly simple. 

Hair Dye Tips for a DIY Halo

If you’re about to dye your hair at home, you might want to think about taking advice from the experts. Stylist Jason Hogan of Josh Wood Color recommends those using this halo technique do apply a gloss every six weeks or so to keep the hair looking fresh and healthy. If you want to find tips about general hair care and taking care of your dyed hair at home, one guy to check out is the stylist and YouTuber Brad Mondo. Brad suggests anyone who doesn’t feel confident in what they’re doing go ahead and just see a stylist rather than risk messing up their hair in a spur-of-the-moment burst of creativity. If you decide to go the DIY route,
  • Don’t overbleach your hair.
  • Make sure you clip the top layer of your hair up, so you don’t end up with spots.
  • Section off your hair, preferably into four parts.
  • When you pull hair to color it, use paper-thin sections. 
  • Use your natural hairline to guide you. 
  • Work backwards from the hairline
Not only will this prevent a giant mess all over your house or apartment, but it’ll help you avoid stray hair dye getting into the wrong places and leaving you looking like a cheetah instead of the angel you are. And you want the hair to look just as good pulled back as it does framing your face. If you feel like you have no idea what you’re doing, go to a stylist. At the end of the day, it’s just hair—experiment, be confident, and just have fun with it.

Is Facial Cupping the Next Big Thing?

By
Sometimes Interesting
cupping
Botox, plastic surgery, intermittent fasting—they’ve all gained their 15 minutes of fame in the last few decades. People are always looking for ways to preserve their appearance and fight off good ol’ father time. And acupuncture, yoga, and massage therapy all fall under this same umbrella of “self-care.” The benefits of these practices are all debatable, and some of them carry significant risks if we’re being honest. But if you’re not opposed to a little bit of pain for the sake of beauty (or you just like to try new things) let me introduce you to the next big sensation: facial cupping. Facial cupping is an alternative therapy that uses suction to stimulate target areas of your facial skin. The benefits and risks are still being evaluated. Though facial cupping is gaining popularity, it’s actually been around since early Chinese and Egyptian civilizations. Hijama (as cupping is sometimes called) fell out of practice for the most part in the 17th and 18th centuries. Like intermittent fasting and acupuncture, this practice may involve a serious health risk. So you’ll definitely want to weigh out the pros and cons before making a decision. 

How Does Facial Cupping Actually Work?

If you’ve heard of cupping therapy, you probably get the idea. Facial cupping is basically the same technique, it just focuses on the facial area. Traditional cupping is often used to ease aches and pains, while facial cupping is more of an exercise in vanity. Facial cupping follows a basic set of principles. Suction on your skin pulls additional blood to the area of suction. Think of a vacuum cleaner clinging to a specific part of your skin. According to Healthline.com, this suction triggers “an inflammatory response, flooding the area with white blood cells, platelets, and other healing aids.” In other words, you are tricking your skin into a pain response, flooding more blood to the targeted area. And this concept isn’t too far from pinching your cheeks for a last-minute blush—just more extreme. It’s important to keep the suction cup moving from place to place to avoid potential unsightly bruising. Otherwise, you’ll give an entirely different meaning to the phrase, “moon-faced.”

Potential Benefits of Facial Cupping

When it comes down to whether the effects of this therapy are beneficial, it’s a hot-button issue. And there’s actually an array of positive outcomes reported by long-time cuppers. According to them, facial cupping has been shown to increase circulation, strengthen skin and connective tissues, relax muscle tension, and more. Facial cupping may lead to decreased puffiness, brighter skin and minimize the appearance of wrinkles and scars.

Potential Risks of Facial Cupping

After facial cupping, many people have experienced lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, and cold sweats. As mentioned earlier, improper facial cupping may also lead to bruising and discoloration. In general, many people consider facial cupping to be a risky activity despite the benefits. 

DIY Facial Cupping

Like many beauty trends, it’s about your tolerance to risk. Feel free to experiment; just consider the risks involved and make an educated decision. Plenty of people do facial cupping on their own, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Consider using a professional, especially for your first attempt.

Where Can You Buy Facial Cups?

You can buy facial cups just about anywhere online. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. As with any health product, be sure to research thoroughly and make the best choice for your body. If you’re not comfortable doing facial cupping therapy on your own, don’t risk it. 

Finding a Facial Cup Therapist

The Acupuncture Today Directory allows you to search for qualified facial cup therapists. You might even find an acupuncturist or another traditional Chinese specialist. Depending on the specialist, your session could vary in length. Your session may be as short as 10 minutes, and your therapist will probably suggest that you continue the therapy weekly for ten weeks, then once monthly going forward.  You’ll want to be careful when you’re picking a therapist, just like you would with any healthcare provider. Don’t make any choices that you are not completely comfortable with when it comes to your body. But a quality cupping session could give you that youthful glow. After all, whoever said, “beauty is only skin deep” obviously never tried facial cupping.

EMS Machines: Shocking Muscle Gains

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Sometimes Interesting
muscles
People are always looking for a way to burn more calories and gain muscle. Traditionally, a good diet and exercise are the best ways to achieve these goals. But with the growing popularity of Electronic Muscle Stimulation technology (EMS), you may be able to accomplish some of your fitness goals with less effort. Or a different kind of effort, at least. Electronic Muscle Stimulation involves electrical impulses directly stimulating your neurons. The stimulation from the EMS unit can be fast or last longer—up to several minutes at a time. The idea is that your body (specifically your muscles) activates your neurons without you needing to use your joints and muscles.

Why People Use EMS Machines

Electronic Muscle Stimulation seems almost too good to be true. Being able to trigger your neurons without actually exerting yourself may sound like science fiction. However, EMS provides an opportunity for more muscle training while removing adding tension on joints and tendons.  While the science is somewhat up in the air, the Journal of Strength and Conditioning concluded that EMS is a “promising alternative to traditional strength training for enhancing the strength parameters and motor abilities.” 

How Does Electronic Muscle Stimulation Work?

The EMS device works on muscle directly. You place the sticky pads directly on your skin at either end of a muscle band. Once the EMS device is activated, an electrical current runs from pad to pad, completing a circuit. Basically, you become a human battery.  EMS devices have a variety of frequencies and settings. Changing the frequencies can activate different muscle fibers. The electronic pulse supplied by an Electronic Muscle Stimulation device can help with fat burning, strength building, and warm-up.

Benefits of EMS

Electronic Muscle Stimulation workouts can be highly efficient, saving you time. As we mentioned before, EMS workouts are also relatively low impact. Your joints may be in significantly less pain after an EMS workout. Because of this, EMS is usually seen as a great option for athletes with back and knee pain.  Another benefit of EMS devices is their impact on auxiliary areas. Unlike most workout routines, the EMS targets all muscles, making you feel some muscles more intensely than others. This targeting can enhance your core strength. EMS is also beneficial for recovering from injuries. Increasing numbers of athletes use EMS technology to stimulate blood flow to a particular area and speed healing.

Potential Dangers of EMS

The scientific community is still somewhat divided on the benefits of EMS. EMS technology will not help your cardiovascular system the way that traditional exercise might. EMS devices are also pretty expensive. Even getting an EMS session from your local gym can be pricey. It is also important to remember that EMS is not for everyone. Pregnant women and children should not use EMS technology. Consult with a medical professional if you are not sure that EMS is appropriate for you. 

FDA Regulations for EMS

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the use and sale of EMS within the United States. Their website indicates that they will receive reports of device malfunctions through MedWatch. The FDA has received reports of shocks, burns, bruising, skin irritation, and pain associated with EMS devices.  The majority of EMS treatments take place as prescription treatments for specific medical conditions. Doctors may use electrical muscle stimulators for muscle re-education, relaxation of spasms, prevention of muscle atrophy, and more (according to the FDA’s website). The FDA has only approved one over-the-counter EMS device. That device is the Slendertone Flex marketed by BMR NeuroTech, Inc. It’s cleared specifically for toning, strengthening, and firming abdominal muscles. 

EMS Considerations

The scientific community is divided when it comes to the pros and cons of this technology. While under the use of a medical professional, it seems that electronic muscle stimulation can be beneficial technology. EMS devices have helped with recovery, muscle spasms, and a whole lot more. But the idea that EMS will burn all of your belly fat while you sit and watch television is, sadly, just a myth. It’s simply not the function of this technology. EMS currently represents a relatively unproven and costly technology. Before considering the use of EMS, educate yourself and have a conversation with your healthcare provider.

What is Doga? A Brief Introduction to Dog Yoga

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Sometimes Interesting
dog yoga
One day, a smart yogi woke up and said, “Let’s add animals to our yoga classes.” Good move, yogi, good move. One of these animal-based yogas is dog yoga. The incredibly reductionist version of dog yoga is yoga with dogs. It is the dog equivalent of goat yoga, where you do your usual yoga routine in a roomful of animals that can interrupt you in a number of hilarious ways. Some studios may allow you to bring your dog to yoga class, too.  But the real dog yoga is called doga. Doga is just as beneficial for dogs as it is for humans and is a great way to start and stick with the practice. It’s easy to set up at home and it’s never too late to start. Let’s learn more about this twist on the traditional practice.

Why You Need Doga (doe-guh)

Doga involves you and your dog and engages both of you in a way that improves your relationship, eases stress, and still gives you a complete yoga workout. The hope of doga is that it helps resolve any dog behavioral issues stemming from stress and anxiety (eating the couch, jumping, barking, etc.). Typically speaking, if your dog is healthy enough to introduce a new form of exercise, isn’t on any prescription medication, or suffering from an ongoing disease, they are a good candidate for this form of doga. All you need is an open space, a mat, and a dog!

The Benefits of Doga

When you practice doga, you want to consider the benefits to your dog first. Fortunately, there are potentially several benefits for your dog even in doga’s simplest form.
  • Relaxation
  • Can improve physical and mental health
  • Bonding and socialization
  • Allows you to see how your dog is moving (a health check-in)

Doga Positions

The yoga positions for doga aren’t as varied as they are for human forms of yoga, as you will need to be your dog’s yoga partner. However, this may be a great way to enter into the practice with your animal yoga partner. Start small with the following poses and then see what else you can do. With better training techniques involved in your routine, you could have them doing downwards facing dog with you!

Seated Positions

If you’re in a seated yoga position, encourage your dog to come and sit beside you. Focus on your breathing, taking visible deep breaths and gracefully exhaling. Of course, you don’t have to exaggerate. Remain peaceful and watch as your pup becomes interested in what you’re doing. This may encourage your dog to reach a peaceful place, too–they may end up laying down in front of you.

Child’s Pose

Enter into a traditional child’s pose, toes touching and arms reaching over and in front of your head. Have your pup lay down facing you. Lower your face towards them and gently touch your nose against theirs. Just a note, be careful that your dog is comfortable with close contact–you don’t want any accidental bites to the nose.

Happy Baby

This doga pose is definitely more for your dog’s entertainment–and maybe they’ll even start to mimic you! Start in a ball on the floor with knees pulled up to your shoulders (you don’t have to bring them up that far, but keep them in line with your shoulders. Now reach to your feet and pull your legs apart. You can gently rock side to side for a back massage or enjoy stretch as you press down on your tailbone. For your dog, they could do one of many things:
  • Rollover on their back
  • Sit and watch you
  • Walk away uninterested in what you are doing
  • Attempt to play with you, making you break the pose and show your pet a little love

Uttanasana

The Uttanasana is another easy move that easily engages your dog. Bend down as to touch your toes and reach out to your dog. They will eventually understand that you bending down is their time to receive the loving pets they want. 

Downward Facing Dog Yoga is on the Way Up

Dogs provide a special kind of chaos in that their innocent charm, high energy, and need to interact pleasantly disrupt our practice with laughter, smiles, and cuddly sunshine. In other words, dogs help us live in the moment and they don’t judge us if we stumble at the simplest of yoga poses.

A Freudian Snuggle Session: All About Cuddle Therapy

By
Sometimes Interesting
couple cuddle
Life is emotionally hard, and sometimes all you need is someone to hug, or better yet, cuddle with to get you through it all. You know, someone to cozy up to, close your eyes, and exchange body heat and platonic care and concern for each other. Unfortunately, this resource isn’t readily available to all of us—even people who have a qualifying significant other can’t always get the cuddles they need. That’s why there are cuddle therapists, trained cuddle professionals.

What is a Cuddle Therapist?

Cuddle therapy isn’t new, but it certainly hasn’t been around that long. Its specific audience also makes it less known than other touch therapy practices like massage therapy. Despite its limited appeal, the quirky nature of the practice has resulted in increased attention over the years. In a basic sense, cuddle therapy is a nonsexual physical intimacy service. It is a holistic treatment for loneliness, stress, anxiety, touch deprivation, and other turbulent emotions. You know how there is dog therapy for stressed-out college students during finals? This is like that, except with people (and obviously, you don’t play with them like a dog).

How Does Cuddle Therapy Work?

A typical session would involve a meeting before the cuddle session begins between the therapist and the client. They would discuss any hesitations, anything that makes them uncomfortable, etc. Once specific guidelines and boundaries are set, and the client discusses how they would like to be cuddled, the cuddling begins! During the session, there could be music, talking, silence, or all three, and the therapist is there to hold and listen. Sessions could last anywhere between 30 minutes to two hours, and some cuddle clinics offer virtual cuddling sessions.

Virtual Cuddling Sessions

Strange to think about, I know. Touch therapy you would expect to be touch—how else could it work? Well, it does, somehow.  Virtual cuddling therapy is more of a mental cuddling, offering companionship and traditional therapy and stress management techniques. A client may experience guided meditation, deep breathing, active listening, experience exchange, and consent training. Virtual is a great option for those who cannot leave their homes or dislike physical touch. The idea of virtual cuddling, though weird now, holds a lot of promise for the future. Who knows what virtual cuddle therapy solutions the world of VR will come up with?

What’s the Science Behind Cuddle Therapy?

Cuddle therapy is technically a form of touch therapy, so there is quite a bit of science to back the practice up.  Touch therapy operates on the idea that physical touch activates the orbitofrontal cortex. This part of the brain sits right between the eyes (orbits, being your eyes; frontal being the front part of your brain). The orbitofrontal cortex plays a major role in social-emotional behavior. It is also linked to feelings of reward and compassion.  Even a simple touch can activate this part of the brain and ultimately increase the positive outcomes of certain situations. For instance, Tiffany Field, Director of the Touch Therapy Institute, found that, unlike the stigma that surrounds autistic children and touch, they enjoy being massaged. Another study conducted at UC Berkeley showed that a teacher’s eye contact and a friendly pat on the back can boost student participation rates. Touch therapy also increases the body’s production of oxytocin and dopamine. These hormones help with cognitive function, relaxation, focus and attention, memory, and social bonding. 

Benefits of Cuddle Therapy

That said, the benefits of cuddle therapy are many.
  • Aids in pain management
  • Helps sleep for those with insomnia
  • Improve immune system and heart health
  • Lower cortisol levels. Cortisol is the hormone responsible for stress
  • Restore a feeling of connection to the world around you
Of course, the results of cuddle therapy depend on the person. A) not everyone will enjoy it simply because not everyone is a “toucher,” and B) physiological responses to touch hinge on pre-existing conditions, mentality, experience, etc.

Only if You’re Comfortable

Cuddle therapy is not for everyone, but you shouldn’t rule it out entirely. Even if your physical space bubble is small, this is still a form of professional touch therapy. A therapist will do all they can to make you feel comfortable during your snuggle. And hey, maybe you’ll walk out of their office feeling a little more right with the world! Or you can still avoid it altogether—the only good touch therapy is consensual.
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