Attention everyone! Do you know that indulging in cuddling after sex could be the best thing that can help strengthen your bond? Are you someone who regularly partakes in spooning with your partner, or do you secretly crave a sleep break-up from your partner? If you are not a fan of sweet words and snuggled conversations, then we’re afraid you’re missing out on something really amazing.

Cuddling after sex can have umpteen mental and physical benefits and can also improve the health of your relationship. Health shots got in touch with clinical psychologist Dr Smita Vasudev to understand the various health benefits behind cuddling after sex.

How does cuddling after sex helps?

Just like hugging, curling up to your partner levels up the production of oxytocin in the body aka the love hormone. Its secretion also increases during orgasm, and it does a great deal in boosting your mood and strengthening the relationship between partners.

As per Dr Vasudev, some of the benefits of cuddling after sex includes:

1. Low levels of stress

Stress has become an unavoidable part of our everyday lives. However, chronic stress is something we should try to manage since it can have a detrimental impact on our health.

Fortunately, cocooning under your partner after a pressing day can release oxytocin that reduces stress levels. Research published in the Biological Sciences claims that oxytocin release in the body can lower levels of stress hormone, cortisol. Another study published in the journal Association for Psychological Science reveals that oxytocin can help provide relief from symptoms of anxiety. So, if you are struggling with any of these, it’s time to feel cosy with your partner.

2. Improves immune system

Dr Vasudev explains, “Apart from oxytocin, cuddling promotes the body to stimulate serotonin and dopamine. After this happens, all three hormones work in unison to guard the body against harmful infections, thus boosting your immune system.” Oxytocin helps the functioning of the body’s cells, responsible for regulating the immune system.

3. Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease

“Hugs and cuddles tend to lower blood pressure, which in turn the risk of heart disease,” says the expert. A study found in the Biological Psychology journal concluded that regular cuddling after sex with your partner can help manage blood pressure levels. An experiment conducted on 59 pre-menopausal women got their blood pressure checked before and after hugging their partners. The experiment revealed not just a considerable reduction in blood pressure, but also marked high levels of oxytocin in the body.

4. Strengthens the emotional bond between partners

Cuddling post-sex is as beneficial as having sex with your partner. As aforementioned, cuddling encourages the release of oxytocin, also known as the “Bonding Hormone” in the body, which promotes strong bonding between partners. If you wish to maintain health and joy in your relationship, you must cuddle more. After-sex is the time when both partners are extremely vulnerable, and physical intimacy shared during this period can have a positive impact on your relationship.