The Benefits of Cuddling for Your Sleep and Health
Cuddling with a loved one conveys warmth and security. However, did you know that it not only creates a pleasant feeling but can also have positive effects on your sleep quality? Learn more about the benefits of cuddling in bed and how it can help you achieve a better night's rest.
How does cuddling in bed affect sleep?
According to a report by Gorilla Gesund on sleep and partners, 61% of respondents believe: "I sleep better when I cuddle with my partner." But what exactly does cuddling do that leads to better sleep? Let's take a closer look at how cuddling can improve the quality of your sleep and your overall well-being.
Reduces stress and anxiety
"According to the report on sleep and partners, a majority of participants acknowledge that cuddling has many health benefits. About 80% agree that cuddling helps reduce stress and anxiety."
Cuddling in bed releases oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone." This substance is naturally produced during physical touch and can help lower your heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels. This promotes a sense of calm, relaxation, and happiness. Especially before going to sleep, an appropriate cortisol level is important, as cortisol is a stress hormone that can disrupt sleep. When you cuddle with someone, your body releases oxytocin, which in turn reduces cortisol and stress. This ultimately leads to a more peaceful and restful state of mind and thus to better sleep.
Health-promoting effect
"Not only is oxytocin released through cuddling, but physical contact can also stimulate the release of endorphins. These natural painkillers can reduce discomfort and pain that might prevent restful sleep."
Additionally, cuddling can help regulate heart rate and blood pressure by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. This leads to a feeling of relaxation and calmness and has positive effects on sleep quality. Research suggests that touch can have a calming effect that lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease and strokes. Both men and women can benefit from the cardiovascular and stress-reducing advantages of cuddling.
Promotion of intimacy
The report on sleep and partners also shows that 83% of participants believe that cuddling helps them feel emotionally close to their partner. It conveys a sense of comfort and security that encourages relaxation and thus leads to better sleep.
Cuddling can be important after sexual intercourse as it increases satisfaction in the partnership. Oxytocin, the "love hormone" released during cuddling, promotes social bonds and emotional communication, strengthening love and affection for the partner. Ultimately, the "love hormone" contributes to a happier, healthier, and less stressed partnership. Therefore, cuddling is considered an essential part of a healthy relationship for many couples.
Positive influence on mental health
Cuddling not only has a positive effect on physical health, but it also has a positive influence on mental health. Even just a few minutes of cuddling together can promote the production of oxytocin, elevate mood, reduce stress, and provide a sense of calm and satisfaction. This hormone can also reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and increase feelings of happiness and well-being. Cuddling also promotes closeness and intimacy with others, which in turn can reduce feelings of loneliness and foster social support. All these benefits create an ideal environment for improved sleep quality and ultimately for better mental health and overall well-being.
Conclusion
Cuddling with a partner is not only a way to express affection and promote intimacy, but it also offers many benefits for physical and mental health. Cuddling can reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate physical discomfort, and support mental well-being. If you have trouble sleeping, cuddling with a loved one – or even a cozy sleep pillow – can help you achieve a better night's rest and benefit your well-being.
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