It seems like most men can’t wrap their heads - or their arms - around the concept of cuddling. Ironically, that couldn’t be further from the truth. New research shows that it’s men who secretly love to be smothered by their loved ones. A study conducted by The Kinsey Institute in Bloomington, Indiana found that kissing, caressing and cuddling were more important to men than women. Of more than 1,000 couples surveyed, it was the men who strongly indicated that they require copious amounts of human touch. The research showed that men require touch and affection to feel good in their relationships, and the men surveyed stressed the importance of intimate physical contact in general. And the guys are right - cuddling is crucial.
Other studies show that getting some snuggle time has major health benefits. For starters, when people cuddle, the body releases the feel-good hormone oxytocin, which makes them feel happier. When physical interaction boosts the levels of oxytocin, it causes blood pressure to go down. The reaction not only lowers the risk of heart problems, but also reduces the levels of stress and anxiety. The obvious bennies are that physical intimacy also brings you closer as a couple. We’re talking about communicating through actions, not words. It’s the opportunity to quietly show someone just how much he or she means to you. That’s not to say that one thing won’t lead to another. When you get closer physically, the body releases dopamine, which heightens sexual desire. At the end of the day, a cozy cuddle is just the right note to end - or begin - the evening.