Experts claim cuddle therapy aids with anxiety, stress, and isolation
Stressed AF over work?
Finances are out of whack?
I know just the thing to relax and chill you out: a hug.
Verywell Mind / Getty Images.
I know what you’re thinking:what is she talking about?
Hugs don’t solve problems.And that’s slightly true.
These days, we dont get hugs as frequently as wed like (or need!).
or best friendas part of your self-care routine?
With professional cuddling and cuddle therapy, you get this and more.
What Is Cuddle Therapy?
Professional cuddling is a therapy proven torelieve stress and anxietywhile boosting your mood and self-esteem.
In a cuddle therapy session, a trained professional cuddler (yes, it’s a real job!)
offers different forms of physical contact, from holding to hugging and hand-holding.
How Does It Work?
Want your cuddler to sit beside you and only hold your hands?
you’re able to do that.
Desire more physical contact and need to be held while lying down?
That’s an option too.
Whatever affection needs you have, a professional cuddler certainly can provide.
What Are the Benefits of Professional Cuddling?
Cuddle therapy offers as many benefits for your physical and mental health as traditional therapy.
Here is how it can support your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Benefits to Your Physical Health
Remember oxytocin?
That chemical messenger your body needs to release stress and anxiety?
Yeah, physical touch (like cuddle therapy) triggers it.
Not only does oxytocin keep you calm, but it’s also soothing.
The more oxytocin in your body, the better your body feels.
Oxytocin acts as a natural pain relief.Can’t sleep throughout the night?
The happy hormone will help you get your zzzs.
Getting your regular dose of cuddles and affection is key to maintaining and increasing the oxytocin in your body.
And the more oxytocin you have, the better your physical health will be.
Benefits to Your Emotional Well-Being
Being held can do wonders for your emotional well-being.
You just feel more content, happier, comforted, and relaxed after getting some cuddles in.
Regular cuddling sessions can also help if youve been struggling with feelings of loneliness and isolation.
You feel more connected and cared for, which boosts your self-esteem and self-worth.
Something that can ultimately encourage you to go into the world and form more human connections.
For older people, disabled, or simply those starved of platonic intimacy, it provides profound comfort.
Professional cuddling is so much more than just a warm hug.
Its a therapeutic form of self-care that improves yourphysical, emotional, and mental health.
Who Is Professional Cuddling For?
It’s especially helpful for people whoselove language is physical touch.
you’re able to go at your own pace and gradually overcome your fear of physical touch.
That can be people who live alone or who have busy lifestyles.
The unifying thread is a desire for safe, caring human connection.
What Does It Take to Become a Professional Cuddler?
No mandatory training or certification is required to become a professional cuddler.
But, its advisable to go through some training.
A good professional cuddler empathizes with their clients and understands why they want to connect physically.
Being naturally compassionate and genuinely wanting to help others is a great start.
Effective communication is another.
You mustbe clear when discussing boundaries, understanding the clients needs, and providing reassurance throughout the session.
Clear, open, and respectful communication ensures the cuddler and the client feel comfortable and safe.
A Professional Attitude
Maintaining professionalism is also vital with professional cuddling.
Cuddling might seem passive, but it can be physically demanding.
They should also beattuned to body languageand nonverbal cues to adjust positions and ensure their clients comfort.
The space should be clean, private, and conducive to relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, professional cuddling is strictly a non-sexual service.
Professional cuddlers maintain clear boundaries to ensure sessions are platonic and respectful.
This open communication ensures both parties feel safe and respected.
Finding a reputable professional cuddler involves doing some research.
Look for professionals who have undergone training and certification from recognized organizations.
