Cuddling is often seen as a purely romantic gesture, but it turns out that this simple act has many health benefits. Several studies prove that cuddling can help relieve stress and tension, help you to keep warm and provide comfort.
How exactly does this happen? Cuddling increases the production of hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain (oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine) that benefit the body.
Cuddling has many unique benefits, and it’s excellent for our bodies and minds. Keep reading to find out just how amazing they are, and you’ll be itching to snuggle someone at the end of this article.
Health benefits of cuddling
1. Reduce stress
Cuddling generates stress-relieving hormones and hormones that induce happiness and pleasure. When we cuddle, our bodies produce oxytocin– called the “cuddle hormone” or the “love hormone.”
This essential hormone is responsible for reducing anxiety and stress while promoting feelings of happiness, calm, and security. So, the next time you’re stressed, try reaching out for a cuddle instead of that extra cup of coffee.
2. Better sleep
Cuddling can also help you sleep better. The increased oxytocin caused by cuddling can lead to deeper and longer sleep. Oxytocin also reduces cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a stress hormone that can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
If you’re struggling to get a good night’s rest, try cuddling with your partner or snuggling up with a soft blanket. You’ll be asleep in no time.
3. Pain relief
Cuddling can also serve as a form of pain relief. Oxytocin, besides reducing stress and promoting sleep, also has pain-relieving properties.
One study found that oxytocin can help reduce the perception of pain. In the study, participants were given a painful heat stimulus. Those who had oxytocin administered to them rated their pain as less intense than those who did not receive oxytocin.
So, cuddling may be a natural and effective way to find relief if you’re in pain.
4. Boosts immune system
Cuddling can also help boost your immune system. Several studies show that oxytocin can increase antibodies’ production, which is essential for fighting infection and disease.
So, if you’re looking for a natural way to boost your immune system, cuddling may be it.
5. Great for baby’s health and bonding
Cuddling is also great for the baby’s health. Oxytocin helps to promote bonding between mother and child, and it also helps to reduce stress and anxiety in both the mother and child.
Cuddling with your baby can also help them to regulate their breathing and heart rate. And it can help them to sleep better.
So, if you’re a new mother, don’t hesitate to cuddle with your baby as much as possible. It’s great for their health and your bond.
6. Lowers blood pressure
Cuddling relaxes the body, which may help reduce blood pressure and its associated risks.
Because high blood pressure is related to heart disease and stroke, frequent cuddling should be part of any therapy strategy for high blood pressure.
7. Stronger bonds with your partner
Cuddling can create a stronger emotional connection with your partner. The physical closeness and affection involved in cuddling can promote feelings of love and trust.
This can benefit both people in the relationship, leading to a more fulfilling and longer-lasting bond.
8. May improve digestion
Cuddling may also help to improve digestion. Cuddling helps produce serotonin, a hormone that plays a role in regulating digestion.
Serotonin helps to move food more quickly through the digestive system and reduces symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating, gas, and constipation.
Who should you cuddle?
You can cuddle with anyone you feel comfortable with, whether it’s your partner, a family member, or a friend. If you don’t have anyone around, consider going for a pro-cuddling session with a professional cuddler.
Professional cuddlers are trained in the art of non-sexual touch and can provide all the benefits of cuddling without any strings attached.
When to cuddle
There’s no wrong time to cuddle, but there are certain moments when cuddling may be especially beneficial. Consider cuddling:
- Before bed to help you relax and fall asleep
- After a workout to help your muscles recover
- During times of stress or anxiety
- When you’re feeling sad or down
- When you’re sick
How to cuddle
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to cuddling. You can cuddle in any comfortable position for you and your partner.
Some popular cuddling positions include:
- Sitting side by side and leaning against each other
- Lying down face to face
- Sitting on each other’s laps
- Spooning (lying down with your partner’s back against your chest)
If you’re cuddling with a professional cuddler, they will likely have their own rules and guidelines.
Cuddle safely
When cuddling with someone you’re not in a relationship with, it’s important to set boundaries and communicate your expectations beforehand. This will help ensure that both people are on the same page and comfortable with the level of physical intimacy.
It’s also important to be aware of your comfort level. If you’re uncomfortable with certain types of physical contact, communicate this to your cuddling partner.
For example, you may not want to be touched on certain parts of your body, or you may only want to cuddle for a certain amount of time.
If you feel uncomfortable during a cuddling session, speak up and let your partner know. Cuddling should always be an enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Cuddling is a great way to show affection and build intimacy with your partner. It also has several health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving digestion, and lowering blood pressure. You can always go for a professional cuddling session if you’re not comfortable cuddling with a partner.