D., LMFT, explains, cuddling can be a way to initiate sex or practice aftercare after sex, or it can simply be a way for couples to bond with each other—thanks in part to the fact that the physical act of cuddling triggers the release of hormones like oxytocin and dopamine, which create feelings of closeness.
Increased cuddling in committed romantic relationships can increase relationship and sexual satisfaction. Cuddling occurs around sexual activity, but it is also perceived as a nurturing behavior. Not everyone wants to cuddle often, so it's best to check with one's partner about their affectionate needs.
"Cuddling, especially with someone you like, gives you a sense of closeness and relaxed intimacy that's difficult to find in other activities. If you feel comfortable with the other person, it kind of just let's you relax and not have to do much physically.
Oxytocin is released during sex, but it's also released by physical contact such as cuddling, kissing or hugging. When those feelings of calmness and overall happiness become associated with a certain person, it can be hard not to feel attachment to the cause of that association.
1. It produces the "love hormone," oxytocin. This little hormone basically goes into hyperdrive when you make physical contact with someone, which means cuddling has the potential to release a lot of it. Oxytocin can also create feelings of sexual arousal and trust, earning it the nickname the "love hormone."
Cuddling is typically a sign that a person is interested or has affection towards you, but it doesn't necessarily translate into love. Regarding how they feel about cuddling, some people believe may see it as incredibly intimate, while others enjoy cuddling even in platonic friendships.
In a study that refutes gender stereotypes, researchers looking at couples in long-term relationships have found that men value cuddling and caressing as important for their relationship happiness more than women do.
Psychologists in London claim they have cracked the code on the ideal embrace, saying hugs should last between five and 10 seconds. According to researchers at Goldsmiths university, longer hugs were found to provide an immediate pleasure boost compared to shorter ones (lasting just one second).
If the guy you like is willing to stay around and cuddle all night, you can bet that he wants to be close. He's looking for intimacy from your connection. Guys, on the whole, appreciate and are interested in cuddling and usually won't spend the night doing it unless they have an interest in you.
Cuddling is typically a sign that a person is interested or has affection towards you, but it doesn't necessarily translate into love. Regarding how they feel about cuddling, some people believe may see it as incredibly intimate, while others enjoy cuddling even in platonic friendships.
Cuddling is an inherently intimate act, probably more so than sexual intercourse, so I would say it's almost (ALMOST) worse than finding out your partner had sex with someone else. Sex can almost certainly be free of an emotional connection. Cuddling seems less like it can. Yes, cuddling is cheating!
Hugging, snuggling, massage, and kissing all fall under the cuddling umbrella. There's no right or wrong way to cuddle, but these common cuddling positions can pave the way to an epic cuddling session.
When we touch – cuddle, hug, or holding hands – our bodies release “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.
Spooning is the classic cuddle, with 31% of couples opting to nestle together like a set of flatware. If you're not aware, spooning takes place when lying down, with both people on their sides, facing the same way. The Big Spoon envelops the Little Spoon in a bear hug, tucking knees behind the little spoon's knees.
A "steady diet" of oxytocin helps trigger the release of dopamine, which means we're almost literally addicted to the person we're in love with. Cuddling is a drug, so to speak.
Just lean in to kiss his lips, hold your lips there for a second, and then pull away while locking eyes. French kiss him. Once you're comfortable with soft, gentle kisses, you can start French kissing if you're comfortable with that. Move your tongue slowly into your boyfriend's mouth as he does the same.
Sharing a bed is the ultimate intimacy and research suggests that sleeping close and cuddling increases oxytocin (the 'love' hormone) which helps to lower stress hormones, making you feel calmer and encourages feelings of safety and security – leading to less interrupted sleep.
In response to the physical act of cuddling, the body releases hormones like oxytocin and dopamine that create feelings of closeness. "Oxytocin, often nicknamed the 'cuddle hormone' or 'love hormone,' promotes feelings of wellness, pleasure, and overall happiness," says Engle.
A great cuddling position is spooning — and you can switch up who gets to be the little spoon. You can also try hugging and wrapping your legs around your partner's body for maximum closeness. Cuddling releases oxytocin, which can help you feel more relaxed and bonded with your partner.
It's All about the “Cuddle Chemical.”
Levels of oxytocin rise when we make physical contact with another human being. So when you hop into bed and spoon with your honey or take it to the next level of intimacy, the chemical is released and you feel calm and protected.
Main Difference – Hug vs Cuddle
Hug is indicative love, affection, friendship, sympathy, support, comfort, and it is also used as a form of greeting. In contrast, cuddle is mainly indicative of love and affection. The main difference between hug and cuddle is that cuddle is more intimate and affectionate than hug.
For girls, cuddling means reassurance from their boyfriend that they are safe and can let their guard down. Cuddling also provides happiness due to the release of the hormone oxytocin. When the girl cuddles up, there is a release of a chemical called oxytocin in the brain.
Get comfortable with how you feel about making the request first… and remember, there is nothing strange about wanting physical intimacy with someone in or outside of an intimate relationship. You are allowed to want to cuddle. It's totally fine and normal.