Cuddling and its Advantages: A Look into Spooning and Its Perks Within and Beyond the Bedroom
In the realm of relationships, a simple act of intimacy known as spoons has been gaining attention for its numerous psychological and physical benefits. The term 'spooning' was coined to describe a position where two people lie facing the same direction, one person facing away while the other person lies behind, stomach to back [1].
According to a study published by the University of Connecticut, adults in relationships with frequent affectionate behaviors, such as spooning, are more sexually and rationally satisfied [2]. This is primarily due to the release of oxytocin, a hormone that fosters bonding and reduces stress [3].
Psychologically, spooning helps partners feel closer and more connected, strengthening emotional bonding, and leading to greater relationship satisfaction and fewer conflicts [3]. Physically, the oxytocin release lowers cortisol (a stress hormone), reduces pain, boosts the immune system, improves sleep quality by promoting deeper REM sleep, and creates feelings of comfort, peace, and calm [2][3].
Spooning can also serve as a natural anxiety remedy, as the reduction of cortisol levels can promote relaxation [3]. For those who struggle to show affection in other ways, spooning can be a natural and private way to express love and care [4].
Moreover, the affectionate physical touch supports relationship health by making couples feel more connected, increasing satisfaction, and decreasing perceived relationship stress during the day [3][5]. Even in the absence of sexual interaction, spooning can improve the sexual side of a relationship, fostering better sex and increased satisfaction [6].
The release of oxytocin during spooning has been proven to reduce stress, alleviate pain, and boost the immune system [3]. In premenopausal women, a higher level of oxytocin has been linked to lower blood pressure and heart rate [7]. Oxytocin may also promote wound healing due to its role in angiogenesis (creating new blood vessels) [8].
Family therapist Virginia Satir famously stated that four hugs a day are necessary for survival, eight for maintenance, and twelve for growth [9]. In the context of spooning, the one being hugged from behind is called the "little spoon", while the other is the "big spoon" [1].
When this is reversed, it is affectionately called "jetpacking" or "jetpack cuddling" [1]. In the big spoon position, the arms and legs can go anywhere that feels comfortable, and some people also like to intertwine their legs with their partner's [1].
Studies suggest that emotional stress or turmoil can slow down the repair of injuries, due to lower oxytocin levels [10]. Conversely, a strong link between partner support and higher oxytocin levels has been found [11]. Couples who have intense conflict in their relationship may experience slower wound healing compared to those without conflict [12].
In conclusion, spooning offers a multitude of benefits, from reducing stress and promoting relaxation, to improving sleep quality and fostering intimacy. It serves as a natural remedy for anxiety and a private way to express love and care. Moreover, it can improve the sexual side of a relationship and promote wound healing. So, whether you're looking for a way to strengthen your bond or simply seeking a comforting embrace, spooning could be just what you need.
- Spooning, a position of intimacy, is linked to improved mental health, as it boosts oxytocin levels, fostering bonding and reducing stress.
- In the realm of family and relationships, spoons can strengthen emotional bonding, leading to greater relationship satisfaction and fewer conflicts.
- The health-and-wellness benefits of spooning stretch beyond mental health, with the oxytocin release also reducing pain, boosting the immune system, and improving sleep quality.
- The fashion-and-beauty industry has taken notice of the intimate act, with couples finding creative ways to modify the positions, such as jetpacking or jetpack cuddling.
- Lifestyle choices that promote physical touch, like regular spoons, can also aid in wound healing due to the role of oxytocin in angiogenesis.
- Adequate, affectionate physical contact, such as spooning, is essential for emotional and physical well-being, as suggested by family therapist Virginia Satir's statement that four hugs a day are necessary for survival.
