Teddy bears epitomize a feeling of innocence which is childish. They remind us of that special person who loved us and brought it for us. They also remind us of being nurtured and cared for by others. You can read more through this topic to learn more about teddy bears.
According to Prof Bruce Hood of the University of Bristol, sleeping with a soft toy is very common and normal. So, if you share your bed with your furry companion well into adulthood don’t be ashamed. Research suggests that only one in three people still sleep with their furry friends, and it is more common for women as it has gotten noticed that it is more socially acceptable for them to do so.
Is It Normal And Healthy To Sleep With Your Childhood Stuffed Toy?
Most of us rely on such items for comfort in our grown-up years because they provide us happiness and comfort. So, it is perfectly acceptable and normal to sleep with your childhood stuffed toy. Most adults sleep with their stuffed animals because they provide them a sense of security, positive feelings, remind them of their childhood and reduce negative feelings such as loneliness, anxiety, and many more.
A survey found that 44% of adults have held onto their childhood toys, dolls, and blankets, and around 34% of adults still sleep with their childhood toys. There is no harm or shame in sleeping with your teddy bear.
Cuddling a soft toy is beneficial for your health as it helps to alleviate anxiety and other mental issues.
If your stuffed toy harms your relationship with your partner, have an honest conversation with your partner. If your partner is not comfortable with it, explain to them its importance. You can also contact a mental health professional who will guide you through the process.
Now we are going to discuss some reasons why people should sleep with stuffed animals:-
They Provide A Sense Of Security
Stuffed animals are known as comfort objects. Adults can also use and love a teddy bear in the same way that children do. The stuffed toys help us in providing a sense of security in every stage of our life. It has gotten noticed that most adults sleep with their childhood teddies to reduce negative feelings.
Improves Mental Health
Just like live animals, stuffed animals can also improve your mental health. They build secure emotional attachments which can help people live positive and happier lives. Stuffed animals are recommended for people who are suffering from PTSD, bipolar, and other mental disorders.
Helps A Lonely Person Feel Good
As we grow up, we all go through situations that make us lonely, even when there are people around us. Human beings suffer without the company of others. Stuffed toys cannot completely fulfill the absence of other humans in our lives, but they always provide positive feelings and help ease loneliness.
Helps In Reducing Stress
Studies say that interacting with your pet dog or cat reduces levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. Cortisol causes several psychological problems, such as increasing the likelihood of coronary disease and weight gain. Cuddling a stuffed animal helps to relieve stress and keep us healthy and happy.
Final Thoughts:
I hope this article will help you to know the benefits of teddy bears. It will also motivate people who feel ashamed of having an emotional attachment with their childhood teddy bear and still sleep with them.
There is no reason to kick the habit of sleeping with your teddy bear or blanket or whatever else you like to unless these things create a negative force on your life. You can read more about teddy bears in various articles to increase your know-how about how teddy bears are helpful in reducing stress.
