Can cuddling heal?
Coming out of the closet. Lack of intimacy. Abuse. Homophobia. Fat shaming.
Our community has been through its fair share of trauma.
What if the way back to connection and good physical and emotional health is through a loving community activity: cuddling?
Yes, we have the power to begin healing ourselves and each other through touch.
Here's why...
Connection
When we cuddle, oxytocin - also called “cuddle hormone” - is released. It leaves you with feelings of connection, bonding, and trust.
Helps you communicate emotions
Research confirms that touch is a way to communicate emotions such as love, gratitude, and sympathy between loved ones. Happiness and sadness can be communicated through touch, too.
In a society where we don't feel seen or heard all the time, cuddling gives us a chance to community non-verbally.
Lowers blood pressure
Touch has a calming effect which may lower blood pressure. Research has shown short periods of hand-holding and hugging lowers both diastolic and systolic blood pressure. High blood pressure is linked to heart disease and stroke, so regular cuddling should be part of any high blood pressure treatment plan.
Relieves stress and anxiety
According to one 2004 study, massage in the form of stroking, squeezing, and stretching can help relieve stress and anxiety by increasing dopamine and serotonin in the body. These two neurotransmitters help regulate your mood. Dopamine also regulates the pleasure center in your brain.
Helps relieve pain
Cuddling in the form of therapeutic touch may even have the power to reduce pain. Therapeutic touch is the method of placing your hands on or near the body to balance energy and promote natural healing.
The good news is that my group, The Belly Club, hosts cuddle pile events in NYC and beyond.