Cuddling would not only be a pleasant moment, but would also improve sleep and the immune system and also reduce stress and depression.
The benefits of hugs on morale are well established. The physical and emotional contact of the hug reassures and reduces tension. But if the interest is obvious in the event of psychological suffering, what about children or the immune system? Why is it so important to cuddle in a couple?
The essential hugs in the development of the child
The experience of Dr. Bowlby (1) during the Second World War has remained famous. At that time, abandoned children did not receive hugs from orphanage staff. Many were the babies who stopped feeding and sleeping until they died in some cases.
Dr. Bowlby became the first doctor to understand the importance of hugs and physical contact from an early age in helping children not only survive, but also grow and become independent.
Hugs to strengthen the immune system
According to a scientific experiment carried out on 406 patients (2), the greater the number of hugs during the day, the lower the risk of developing a viral disease. This would also be the case at any age, including children.
The benefits of hugs on the couple
Holding your partner not only reduces stress, but also provides a feeling of warmth and comfort. A study of 514 participants (3) showed that the general level of satisfaction in the couple increases with the number of daily hugs.
According to the authors of this study, when you feel more attracted and in love with your partner, you tend to cuddle more. But the more we cuddle, the more attraction and affection we feel. It is therefore a virtuous circle that is set up and which maintains the romantic relationship thanks to the hug.
- McLeod, SA (2007). Bowlby’s attachment theory. Retrieved from https://www.simplypsychology.org/bowlby.html
- Cohen S et al “Does hugging provide stress-buffering social support? A study of susceptibility to upper respiratory infection and illness. Psychol Sci. 2015 Feb;26(2):135-47.
- Van Anders SM, Edelstein RS, Wade RM, Samples-Steele CR. Descriptive experiences and sexual vs. nurturing aspects of cuddling between adult romantic partners. Arch Sex Behav. 2013 May;42(4):553-60.
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