Young children can always be seen toting around their favorite plush toy character wherever they go. But this adorable phenomenon is not limited to children. People of all ages benefit dramatically from snuggling a plushie.
Researchers have conducted studies and found that hugging another person, Pat, or soft plush character, has a stress reducing effect that can aid in healing. Adults who were given a plush teddy bear to hug showed significantly lower blood pressure. Hugging has been proven to reduce anxiety and boost the immune system.
In one case study, hugging a plush toy reduced people’s fear and provided a sense of calming security. Sleeping with a plush toy has been documented to mitigate negative effects of social exclusion and increase prosocial behavior.
Around the world, 60% to 70% of children have an attachment object, usually a stuffed toy or blanket. Attachment usually peaks around three years of age. But many maintain a strong sentimental bond that can last well into adulthood.
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old;
George Bernard Shaw
We grow old because we stop playing.”
Snuggling with a plush toy provides a sense of companionship. Both physically and psychologically. Plush toy companions do not spread negativity, judge, tell your secrets, or leave. They need no special care to last for generations. They are loyal best friends who can be counted on.
Even simply displaying a special stuffed animal, in home decor, provides psychological balance, sense of calm, and relief. And can even bring a smile to all who see it.
Plush toys, especially teddy bears, are regularly donated to Children’s Hospital’s, homeless shelters, retirement care facilities, and police stations. To provide comfort to injured, ill, and traumatized people of all ages.
Throughout the many years that I have been creating custom plush toys for toy companies and clients around the world, I have been blessed to be able to turn people’s ideas into hugs for them to share.
It’s a joy working with children’s book authors who commission me to design and fabricate a plush replica of their beloved storybook character. I also help them manufacture their custom stuffed toys, utilizing my trusted overseas factories.
Many clients commission me to design and fabricate a one of a kind a life-size custom plush animal replica in honor of their beloved pet. Or a creature they have imagined. Or a huggable Lifesize, realistic, replica of a specific animal… as a substitute for a real pet they are wishing to adopt.
A custom plush pet can serve as a memorial in honor of a beloved pet who has passed on. Which can help a person through the grieving process after the loss of their pet. Or it can be enjoyed as a snuggly tangible motivation while they look forward to their goal of being able to adopt a real pet.
Some people desire to re-create their childhood stuffed toy best friend to share with their own children.
One client confided in me that she fears embarrassment. Because she takes her little plush companion everywhere she goes. Which helps soothe her severe anxiety disorder. Stating that she believes she would be ridiculed for being an adult who still plays with toys. I was happy to inform her that she is not alone. Other clients have told me they do the same.
I was glad to be able to let this dear soul know that it is actually healthy and very common for adults to take along a plush toy/good luck charm in their purse, pocket or briefcase, etc.
Having a sense of humor about it and letting others know that it is your fun, long time good luck charm, helps others better accept it.
A plush character, displayed on a shelf or a bed, is not only very common, but is a point of great pride and affection for collectors around the world. Collectors lovingly refer to their collection of teddy bears as their “Hug “.
Plush teddy bears, especially those which are vintage, thread bare, and love-worn, are so highly valued, they have sold at public auctions for up to $50,000.
Plush toy characters are often used in travel scene photography and as props for television and film.
A beautifully made plush toy companion provides cozy comfort that turns into positively healing magic when it is shared.