Cuddling needs no reason and I agree!! However, Cuddle Day calls for an invitation to the faculty that explains the ‘reason’ behind all there is – to expound upon the benefits of cuddling someone with all your heart. Hello, science! 
So, the next time anybody tells you that cuddling is too lovey-dovey, present them with the evidence. Cuddling has benefits that go beyond the feel-good factor. You’d be surprised there’s so much more to spooning and snuggling than what meets the eye.
Suggested read: Scientific reasons why all need to hug more often
We’ve got it all gathered here, courtesy our special guest – scientific research!!
1. It improves your sex life
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Research has shown that cuddling after sex leads to an increase in satisfaction and happiness levels. As such, an increased level of intimacy on the physical as well as mental plane is established. The release of dopamine causes sexual desire to shoot up, thereby leading to a round two! And since, we all know the health benefits of sex, this one is a win-win that is too sexy to resist!! Come, cuddling! (no puns) 😉
2. It is an effective stress-buster
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Stress management coach and holistic therapist Catherine A. Connors maintains that all forms of touch/physical contact helps stimulate the release of oxytocin (the feel-good hormone), thereby helping to alleviate stress and induce a calmer, peaceful state of mind. Not only do cuddles have an immediate calming effect on the body and help release tension, they are scientifically proven to reduce the amount of cortisol (the stress hormone) produced in our bodies, thereby, helping to weed out the ‘strung-out’ feeling.
3. It helps women bond better
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Dr. Fran Walfish, a leading child, couple, and family psychotherapist from California deems cuddling as immensely healthy for people because of its inherent emotional benefits. Oxytocin released in the body is a neuropeptide, proven to be closely associated with childbirth and breastfeeding, she says. Since this is a difficult period for the mother, cuddling is shown to have a biological effect in strengthening the bond between mother and child. Also, lavishing the new mom with a steady stream of snuggling helps her communicate better. As such, cuddling is a recommended formula for helping women bond better and develop more open patterns of communication with their partners.
4. It reinforces emotional intimacy
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David Klow, a marriage and family therapist in Chicago reminds couples of the enormous benefits of this form of non-erotic physical touch. He maintains that cuddling is one of the most effective forms of non-verbal communication that not only elevates one’s relationship to a higher plane of intimacy but also helps enrich and deepen the bond shared betwixt two people. An expert in couple therapy, he works closely with couples who want to improve intimacy in their lives. He reminds us that cuddling solves communication issues. The process of snuggling up close helps bridge gaps in communication and transmits an enhanced form of understanding and empathy, making one feel loved, appreciated, and cherished.
“Most people want to feel understood, and communication is the vehicle by which they transmit understanding and empathy. Non-verbal communication can be a very powerful way to say to your partner, ‘I get you,’” he says. “Cuddling is a way of saying, ‘I know how you feel.’ It allows us to feel known by our partner in ways that words can’t convey.”
5. It boosts the immune system
Oxytocin released during cuddling helps induce a positive frame of mind, alleviate stress and reduce anxiety. Studies show that these feelings have a direct correlation with the immune system. Dr. Shara Cohen asserts that staying calm, feeling optimistic and cheerful, and having close, interpersonal relationships are all good ways to boost immunity and fight infections and diseases. So, the next time, anyone asks you how one can remain invincible and not fall sick, teach them all about the power of cuddling!!
Suggested read: Surprisingly less known facts about kissing
6. It helps develop a healthy sleep pattern
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Oxytocin released during cuddling helps fight stress and the reduction in cortisol (stress hormone) levels promotes quality sleep. Terri Orbuch, the love doctor, asserts that cuddling makes one feel less anxious, thereby, causing one to snooze at a reasonable hour, for the requisite number of hours.
7. It relieves pain
The power of touch cannot be ignored. A simple hug during the times when we came home with scraped knees or cut ourselves while being mischievous worked like sheer magic. So imagine the magic that being nestled up and close in the arms of someone we love can create. Not only will the pain be reduced, but one shall also find within oneself the power to deem the ‘pain’ bearable. All you need to do is make cuddling happen and feel the magic!!
8. It reduces anxiety
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More touch, more oxytocin, more positivity. With oxytocin coursing through one’s system, one is bound to feel less strained, less anxious, and brimming with cheer. In an article published inPsychology Today titled “The Power of Touch,” DePauw University psychologist Matthew Hertenstein demonstrates our innate ability to decode emotions via touch alone. It is a scientifically proven fact that fifteen minutes of cuddling each day can help one feel calm and at ease due to a simultaneous stimulation of the parasympathetic system, which in turn releases oxytocin (love hormone), serotonin (happiness hormone) and dopamine.
9. It lowers the risk of heart disease
Less stress, less anxiety, less tension = a happy and healthy heart. Yes, it is oxytocin again and it seems to bless you with a heart that smiles all the while when you cuddle it up!! J
10. It makes you a happier you
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If ‘creating and spreading smiles’ is as simple as cuddling, I guess you should always time your clocks for a good hour of snuggling up close during the day and then during the night! After all, those smiles are one of the most unadulterated forms of happiness you will ever give and receive.
“Cuddling, holding, and sexual play releases chemicals, like oxytocin, in the brain that create a sense of well-being and happiness,” says Dr. Renee Horowitz, an ob-gyn who recently opened the Center for Sexual Wellness in Farmington Hills, Michigan.
Apart from oxytocin that helps enhance the feel-good factor associated with cuddling, endorphins released during the tactile process contribute to lifted spirits and a great verve.
So, what are you waiting for? Go, make some cuddling time for your loved ones. It is touch touch all the way!! J
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