Description

Regular physical affection with a partner, loved ones, or pets.

Benefits

Releases oxytocin, reduces stress, and improves emotional bonding.

Example

Matt started cuddling more after reading about oxytocin and its link to stress relief. He made a point of giving his partner long hugs in the morning and evening, and started letting their cat sleep in the bed again. It didn’t seem like much at first, but over time, he noticed he felt calmer, less reactive, and—somehow—more connected. Cuddling became their nightly wind-down.