Share on PinterestIf you turn into pajamas, illuminate candles and wrap them in a blanket and sound like a self-care idea, then you’ll love Tiktok’s latest wellness trend, #cozymaxxing.
This snug exercise has been welcomed among Tiktok users as an antidote to stress.
Search for “cozymaxxing” on Tiktok to unearth a mass of comfort and tranquility. Wrapped in a fluffy blanket, illuminate candles, enjoy your favorite comfort show, or relax with gentle music.
The trend in self-care is to engage in a comfortable comfort ritual that helps to relieve stress and promote calmness.
Fierheller told Healthline there are many reasons why Cozymaxxing is currently popular. The chief among them? Burnout syndrome.
“People are burning out and looking for ways to make small pockets of peace in their lives,” he said.
“There are many stressors in the world right now. Finding moments that make you feel safe and comfortable is a great way to relax and stress.”
“People are increasingly rejecting the glory of busyness and hustle, and instead opting for self-care and balance,” she told Healthline.
Villa added that the prolonged aftereffects of the pandemic that have led many to prioritize mental health and practice self-care should not be underestimated.
“The pandemic has forced many of us to stay home, leading to a deeper understanding of comfort and safety within our personal space,” she noted.
Economic uncertainty and political turmoil may be other reasons why people seek comfort from people they feel comfortable with.
“Economic stress, climate anxiety, and political instability often find people in comfortable, familiar environments that make people yearn for a sense of safety and control,” explained Villa.
An expert interviewed by Healthline agreed that Cozymaxxing could benefit your mental health.
“A cozy and predictable environment shows brain safety, reduces cortisol (stress hormones) and promotes relaxation, which can lead to reduced stress and anxiety,” Villa said.
Another advantage is the increased emotional regulation. Being consciously relaxed and comfortable may give you time to reflect and manage your emotions.
This branch of the nervous system is responsible for the body’s “rest and digestion” function and functions in opposition to the body’s “fighting or flying” stress response.
Birah added that Cozymaxxing could help people manage their feelings of anxiety, as this practice promotes a sense of security and provides a sense of control.
Improved sleep quality is another potential mental health benefit that should not be overlooked.
“Creating a comfortable space is great for stress relief, and even improving sleep as it allows for a tidy, attractive space to easily swell and provide better quality rest. This is key to emotional balance.”
It seems like a rather harmless ritual, dressed in a blanket and sipping on a hot tea self-stopping after a stressful day.
However, if not done with some parameters, Cozymaxxing can lead to avoidance.
“I always go back to intentions and balance with all actions because people can worry about indulging when it comes to self-care,” Villa said.
She asked herself the following questions and recommended mental health check-in when practicing self-care.
“Excessive in-movement comfort can contribute to physical health issues and lethargy while using comfort as an escape.
Her advice? Check your intent and ask yourself, “Am I resting to recharge, or am I avoiding something difficult?”
She said setting time limits to avoid cozy rituals becoming isolated or excessive escapism is a good idea.
If you find yourself having difficulty managing your own stress or anxiety, consider finding a therapist or connecting with a mental health professional for support.
If cozymaxxing sounds like something you need to help with stress management, it’s very easy to get started.
Villa started by curating your space and advised. “They add soft lighting, blankets, warm colours and fragrances like lavender and vanilla to create a calm environment.”
Next? Create a pleasant ritual. “Perform daily rituals that showcase relaxation by stretching before cooking warm drinks, reading or going to bed,” Villa said.
Fierheller recommends taking time to baths with gentle music and candles.
Both experts support cleaning up your smartphone and other devices during Kojimax practice.
“Our phones and laptops can be a huge source of stress, especially if you feel an obligation to check work emails after business hours or to respond to people immediately,” Fearheler said.
“Passing digital free time is a great way to embrace the cozy, stress-free environment you are trying to create.”
Villa said it would also be nice to incorporate gentle movement into your day. “You can maintain your activity with calm and cozy movements, such as yoga, stretching or a short walk in a comfortable layer.”
Finally, don’t forget that cozymaxxing doesn’t have to be a lonely activity. A little “my time” is very helpful when you are emphasized.
Meanwhile, being around others can also help you feel recharged.
“Invite your loved ones and share your cozy ritual, whether it’s a movie night, a tea pot or a leisurely Sunday brunch,” Villa said.
Cozymaxxing is a low-efficiency and effective way to deal with mental health, but should be seen as a recovery tool rather than avoidance.
By balancing your comfort, movement, connection and purpose, Cozymaxxing becomes a sustainable and healthy self-care practice that supports your physical and emotional well-being.
