Regardless of your cuddling preferences, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it comes with strong health benefits.
And while your likes and dislikes may not be in exact unison with your partner’s, it is time to take a good look at what the true benefits of cuddling actually are.
Here are 7 reasons for you and your partner to cozy up more often:
1. Cuddling creates a more powerful bond
Cuddling creates a much stronger connection between you and your significant other.
It creates an environment of comfort, opens up communication, and helps you get away from whatever stress you may be going through.
2. It kills stress
Cuddling triggers the release of oxytocin which works as an antidote against the stress hormone called cortisol.
Cuddling can chase away the stress and helps you feel emotionally stronger.
3. It eases the pain
We hug each other when we are hurt whether it be physically or emotionally, but this is not just some cultural phenomenon – it truly helps us feel better.
The wondrous hormone, oxytocin, helps us feel better overall.
4. It helps us sleep better
Thanks to the cortisol-countering hormone, oxytocin, cuddling also helps us fall asleep easier and sleep better. The reduction of stress helps our bodies calm down and drift off.
5. It reduces anxiety
The ability of oxytocin to lower severe anxiety disorders like social anxiety disorder and generalized anxiety disorder is undeniable. Hold your dear partner’s hand to calm yourself next time you feel like anxiety is taking over.
6. It reduces the risk of heart disease
Anxiety, stress, chronic inflammation, and high levels of blood pressure – all risk factors for heart issues – are reduced when your body releases oxytocin. So, to keep yourself healthy, increase your cuddling!
7. Cuddling makes relationships stronger
Oxytocin is also known as the “love” hormone due to its power to increase bonding in romantic as well as non-romantic relationships.
Oxytocin is closely connected to the process of giving birth to a child. During labor, the body releases oxytocin in order to help the uterus contract and help get itself ready for childbirth.
Later, it helps create a stronger bond between the mother and child.
By knowing about the benefits of physical touch and how oxytocin is released in the body, it serves to remind us that health is not a journey to be taken on your own.
Wellness is about taking the time to care for our health, our loved ones, our community, and ultimately our planet.
Are you a regular cuddler?
Let us know your thoughts on the subject by joining the conversation in the comments and please share this article if you’ve found it helpful.