Cuddling stimulates the release of endorphins, which help to alleviate pain. (Representational image via canva)
Sometimes, all you need to bust your stress is to hold somebody close with love and tenderness. That’s called cuddling and this action between two people — parent-child, partners or friends — actually has a cascade of health benefits. That’s because it triggers the release of oxytocin or the “bonding hormone” that promotes feelings of trust, intimacy and attachment.
GOOD FOR HEART HEALTH
Physical touch is known to lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol within the body. This lowers heart rate and blood pressure, reduces feelings of anxiety and promotes relaxation and well-being. Just 30 minutes of positive physical contact can reduce circulating cortisol levels by as much as 50 per cent, according to a study.
Cuddling stimulates the release of endorphins, which help to alleviate pain (whether it’s physical – headaches/menstrual cramps, or emotional – grief/loneliness) and act as a natural mood elevator, leading to feelings of happiness, contentment and pleasure. The reduced stress levels and increased ‘happy’ hormones strengthen the immune system.
Cuddling before bedtime is known to promote relaxation and reduce feelings of insecurity. This leads to improved sleep quality, helps individuals fall asleep faster and gives more restful sleep.
BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY TOOL
Our desire to cuddle isn’t purely a social one, it’s ingrained into our genes. The reason that we both desire and get satisfaction out of physical touch is that it was evolutionarily advantageous to do so. Mammals who huddled in their nests during winters felt the benefits of being close to each other because their internal body heat kept them warm. Huddling together also protected predators, while fostering social bonds within groups.
During the evolutionary process, newborn babies that are most fit and likely to survive are those that can form close attachments with their mothers, who can in turn protect and feed them (John Bowlby’s Attachment theory). Thus, cuddling acts like a behavioural cue, signalling that all is okay.
Cuddling is a form of non-verbal communication which helps partners feel more connected and understood. It fosters greater intimacy and closeness. Regular physical contact strengthens bonds leading to greater relationship satisfaction.
WHAT RESEARCH SAYS
Research has shown that oxytocin may particularly relieve stress and anxiety in social settings. Another study found that oxytocin increases sensitivity to advertising. Researchers found that after sniffing oxytocin, people were more empathetic toward public service announcements and more likely to donate to their causes. More studies have demonstrated how touch can reduce stress and reactivity to stress, as well as promote feelings of security and trust.
FAQs
That's because it triggers the release of oxytocin or the “bonding hormone” that promotes feelings of trust, intimacy and attachment. Physical touch is known to lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol within the body.
Why does cuddling relieve stress? ›
When you cuddle with someone you care about, your body releases a hormone called oxytocin that calms you and makes you more likely to deal better with stress. For example, you might laugh, distract yourself, or try to solve a problem.
Is cuddling good for your heart? ›
Improves heart health
Cuddling releases oxytocin and decreases cortisol levels. As a result, it positively affects your cardiovascular health. Dr Rex explains: it stabilises your heart rate and even lowers blood pressure. Blood pressure is often linked to stress, and things that reduce stress help bring BP levels down.
Why is cuddling so important? ›
Not only is cuddling with a partner a great way to express affection and foster intimacy, but it also provides many benefits for your physical and mental health. Cuddling can reduce stress and anxiety, relieve physical discomfort, and support your mental well-being.
Does cuddling reduce depression? ›
Cuddling releases "feel good" hormones
These hormones include oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. Once the hormones are released into our bodies we experience feelings of happiness, relaxation, improve mood, and lower levels of depression.
How healthy is cuddling? ›
Cuddling can improve sleep and support overall health by releasing oxytocin, reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, easing pain, boosting mood, boosting immunity, and increasing relationship satisfaction. Couples can benefit from different cuddling positions, such as spooning or face-to-face cuddling.
Why is cuddling so addictive? ›
Cuddling and touching releases the bonding hormone known as oxytocin, which can keep people connected to relationships. Both of these chemicals can be released in the brain when someone enters into a relationship, especially one with a strong degree of sexual attraction and chemistry.
Why do we crave cuddling? ›
“When we cuddle, our bodies release serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin,” explains Stefani Goerlich, certified sex therapist and licensed social worker. These hormones make us feel good, happy, and bonded.
Why do tight hugs help anxiety? ›
When you hug, touch, or sit close to someone you love, your body releases oxytocin, which scientists call the “cuddle hormone.” This hormone can help relax and lower anxiety, which in turn can effectively lower blood pressure. It boosts heart health.
Should you cuddle everyday? ›
It fosters greater intimacy and closeness. Regular physical contact strengthens bonds leading to greater relationship satisfaction. Research has shown that oxytocin may particularly relieve stress and anxiety in social settings. Another study found that oxytocin increases sensitivity to advertising.
Here's how it works: The brain sends signals to the adrenal gland, which secretes hormones such as adrenaline, epinephrine and norepinephrine. They flow through the blood and cause the heart to beat faster and stronger, Ho said.
What does cuddling mean to guys? ›
For guys, cuddling is a form of physical intimacy that can help build emotional connection, trust, and bonding. In other words, it's a way of deepening the sense of intimacy between partners. While it could mean it's his way of trying to have sex, it could also signal that he just enjoys being close to you.
Does cuddling have kissing? ›
Cuddling does not necessarily involve kissing, as it generally refers to the act of holding or embracing someone in a close and affectionate manner. Kissing can be a part of cuddling, but it is not required.
What is the 20 second hug rule? ›
A 20-second hug allows your body to release a significant amount of oxytocin, helping you de-stress after a long day and promoting a positive mindset. 2. Enhanced Emotional Bond: Physical touch, like hugging, is a powerful way to strengthen emotional connections with loved ones.
Where to touch a guy while hugging? ›
You can put both arms around his neck and keep one palm gently on the nape of his neck. If your arms are around his neck, run your fingers softly through the hair at the base of his neck. If your arms are around his torso, rub his back gently. A behind-the-back hug can also be a good way to hug a guy hello.
How many hugs does a woman need a day? ›
Remember touch is essential and there is no substitution for a great big hug! As author and family therapist Virginia Satir once said, “We need four hugs a day for survival. We need eight hugs a day for maintenance.
Why does cuddling turn you on? ›
In particular, oxytocin helps us bond with others, form memories, and, as Goerlich noted, feel “warm-fuzzy feelings.” So when the cuddles are romantic, the embrace can make us feel more infatuated, in love, or generally romantic toward our partner.
What hormone does cuddling release? ›
As oxytocin is associated with trust, sexual arousal and relationship building, it's sometimes referred to as the “love hormone” or “cuddle chemical.” Oxytocin levels also increase when you're hugging someone and when you're experiencing an org*sm.
Cuddling stimulates the release of endorphins, which help to alleviate pain. (Representational image via canva)
