Doctors already know physical affection — be it romantic or platonic — can do wonders for one’s mental health. Now, a new study has found snuggling with a loved one before bed is not only good for personal health but relationship health as well.
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How did researchers come to their conclusion?
Researchers at Auburn University in Alabama analyzed data from 143 heterosexual couples who had been together for an average of 13 years. They found that couples who cuddle before drifting off to sleep are less stressed and feel more secure in their relationship.
Even if they didn’t keep snuggling while they slept, those who were physically close as they fell asleep reported feeling lower levels of stress. The study also found an indirect link to lower levels of insecure attachment, or trouble connecting emotionally, in relationships.
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According to research by a psychologist at the University of Hertfordshire, 94% of couples who spent the night in contact with each other reported feeling happy with their relationship, compared to 68% who didn’t touch.
Is there a right way to cuddle?
Researchers found that while individual preferences for sleeping positions didn’t align with the positions couples took at the start of the night, closer positions — such as spooning, sleeping intertwined, or sleeping face-to-face — were associated with psychological benefits.
“This finding may suggest that individual sleep position may not be a driver or a factor in how a couple chooses to cuddle at night, and rather is driven by a desire or need to be close to one’s partner,” the researchers wrote.
They did not look at whether physical proximity at the onset of sleep made a difference in sleep quality.
“Perhaps intimate positions are disruptive of sleep because sustaining long cuddling positions may be uncomfortable, may increase body temperature, one or both partners have sleep problems or disorders or a myriad of other reasons,” the study’s authors said, noting further research would be needed to determine that.
Why does snuggling make things better?
While the study’s authors said they can’t be sure exactly why snuggling lowers stress and helps relationships, they have some theories.
“My study suggests that cuddling with a partner can be both a barometer of how a relationship is doing and a way to maintain or repair a relationship, as well as lower stress levels,” co-author Josh R. Novak, Ph.D, told Fox News Digital.
He added, “Although research needs to substantiate this further, it might also imply that, in the face of conflict during the day that is not solved or repaired … cuddling might be a way to start that process and move toward repair.”
