When we cuddle, our body releases hormones like oxytocin that promote good feelings, so we are less likely to react to stress. Physical touch, such as a neck or shoulder massage, can keep your heart rate lower in response to stress, according to one study published in Psychoneuroendocrinology. A warm embrace or soft touch on your arm also stimulates activity in the orbitofrontal cortex, the part of our brain connected to expected rewards and compassion.
Those touches strengthen bonds with our cuddle partners and help us feel better. Snuggles can lift your mood, improve your health, and give you a much-needed sleep boost. Cuddling signals support, making us more resilient in stressful situations.
Hugs, or soothing touches, reduce our levels of cortisol, the hormone that regulates how we react to stress. Those lower levels of cortisol, in turn, can help make it easier to fall and stay asleep. A proper hug might help bolster your immune system. Researchers discovered that hugs made us less likely to get sick by reducing our response to stress. Olaf was right: Warm hugs could be the answer to staying calm.
A study found that women were more likely to have lower resting blood pressure if they received frequent hugs from their partners. Are you a hugger? You are now. Then, the other partner wraps an arm around them like the safety bar coming down on a roller coaster to lock you in place. Pros and cons: This cuddle lets you and your partner move freely without waking the other person. When it comes to the Pretzel, it takes two to tangle.
There are no chaperones for cuddling. This one is a real snuggle attack. While your partner is lounging on the couch, sit next to them sideways. Lay your head on their shoulder and then pour as much of your body over their lap as possible. Pros and cons: A nice way for partners of different physical sizes to be close.
