From The Straits Times    |
cuddling_thumbnail_rectangle

Too busy for date night? Turns out, one solution to ensure you and your man still have those butterflies is to cuddle more.

“Biologically, cuddling likely evolved as a way to strengthen bonds with our mates and children, to ensure that we stay near them,” explains Norman Li, associate professor of psychology at Singapore Management University. Cuddling releases oxytocin – the same hormone released during orgasms – which causes us to “like someone more, and increase the likelihood we continue being with that person.”

We’re down with any excuse for cuddle sessions – here are our top five positions.

1. The Verona skeletons

How: You both lie on your side, facing each other, and entwine your legs around each other’s. Wrap your arms around the upper half of each other’s bodies.

Why we like it: If you want loads of eye and body contact, – it doesn’t get any more intimate than this. Fun fact: This position got its moniker when two 6,000-year-old skeletons were found embracing each other in an Italian city near Verona, home of Romeo and Juliet.

2. The spoon

via GIPHY

How: You’re both on your sides, one person curled around the other. If you’re the outer spoon, you can wrap your leg around your partner for maximum comfort.

Why we like it: This position creates a blissfully warm, affectionate cocoon, whether you’re the inner or outer spoon. If this cuddle is coming postmeal and that food baby’s making you feel awkward, try clasping his hands to your chest instead – we’re pretty sure he won’t mind.

3. The half spoon

How: Your man lies on his back, while you curl up against him and rest your head on his chest. His arm can also snake around you, and pull you in for a tighter hug.

Why we like it: Some people can only get comfortable lying on their backs. The Half Spoon lets you do that, while enjoying the comfort that comes from that feeling of nestling. This is also one of the few positions where you can Netflix and chill (literally) without both of you having to crane your necks towards the television set.

4. The otters

via GIPHY

How: Both of you lie on your backs and hold hands.

Why we like it: If you’re not one for exchanging all that body heat, go with this. Like otters that doze off holding paws, you can get comfortable and have that reassuring physical connection.

5. The foetal hug

How: Your man lies on his back, while you lie on top of him. You should be chest-down, face turned sideways.

Why we like it: For couples with a big height difference, this one narrows the gap. Plus, there’s also something comforting about being pressed up chest to chest. It’s the cuddle equivalent of a child’s pose in yoga – easy to get into, and super relaxing.

This story was first published in the August 2017 issue of Her World magazine.