If you’re not sleeping well, you’ve probably tried all sorts of ways to solve this problem… from sleep masks, to white noise machines, to meditation, hypnosis, and other tools with questionable results. But have you ever thought about cuddling?
It turns out that cuddling (whether with a person, a pet, a stuffed toy, or your favorite childhood blanket) is the panacea. In this article, we’ll tell you about all the benefits of cuddling, as well as some cuddling positions that you can take advantage of and give yourself a wonderful night’s sleep.
What are the benefits of cuddling for sleep and overall health?
1. Relieves stress
It has been proven that cuddling releases oxytocin. Also known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is one of the hormones of happiness and successfully copes with reducing stress (one of the main causes of poor sleep or difficulty falling asleep). Oxytocin neutralizes cortisol (the stress hormone), helping the body relax, fall asleep easier, and sleep better.
2. Lowers blood pressure
Unfortunately, high blood pressure is one of the most common problems. It increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, but it also negatively affects sleep, resulting in insomnia and sometimes even sleep apnea. However, scientists say that cuddling (even for a short time) has a very good effect, lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
According to this study, holding hands (even for 10 minutes), followed by a 20-second hug, reduces blood pressure in both partners.
3. Relieves pain
You probably remember your mom hugging you after you fell and scraped your knees as a child. Well, it’s not accidental.
In addition to emotional support after trauma, cuddling also has a pain-relieving effect. Yes, it really does. This is due to oxytocin, which blocks pain receptors.
4. Improves mood
Massage techniques similar to cuddling have been shown to increase the secretion of dopamine and serotonin (the other happiness hormones). They have a beneficial effect on anxiety, reducing the negative emotions you experience. An additional function of serotonin is that it regulates the “sleep-wake” cycle, which helps to improve quality sleep.
5. Boosts immunity
The feelings of happiness and security that cuddling provides help the brain produce more happiness hormones, which in turn regulate and support the immune system. According to this study, cuddling can protect you from colds.
6. Increases Relationship Satisfaction
Cuddles aren’t just romantic (and sexual), they’re also an act of intimacy that strengthens the bond between two people. Studies show that couples who cuddle regularly not only stay together longer, but they’re also happier and healthier. Couples who cuddle report being more satisfied with their relationships and sleeping better.
What are the best positions for cuddling?
Couples sleep in all sorts of ways, but here are the 4 most traditional positions you can use:
1. Spoons – both partners lie on their sides facing the same direction. One is the “little spoon,” the cuddler, and the other is the “big spoon,” the cuddler.
2. Pretzel – the partners are face to face, with their arms and legs intertwined. This position is a hit among new couples.
3. Back to back – yes, even when you are back to back, you can cuddle. It counts as long as you are touching.
4. Head on shoulder – one partner rests their head on the other’s shoulder.
Cuddling with a fluffy/plush pet?
If you don’t have a (human) partner, fear not, we have a cuddly solution for you. The alternative is a furry or plush pet.
If you choose a pet, its warmth and pulse will provide you with a sense of security and love.
If you choose a stuffed pet from childhood (a favorite toy, an old blanket, or a colorful sweater), you will have security and a nice sense of nostalgia.
So, it turns out that it doesn’t really matter what or who you cuddle. It’s important to cuddle, because comfort, security, and love promote sleep, but also your overall well-being. Until more cuddles!
