Should You Hire A Professional Cuddler?
An analysis of paying for affection
Before we get started, one important question needs to be answered:
What is professional cuddling?
From what I can find online about this unique but intriguing service, professional cuddling is a completely platonic (NON-sexual) agreement where a “cuddler” is matched with a “cuddlee” who provides intimacy, mainly in hugs (cuddling) but also in other ways (if requested) like just keeping someone company.
What it is NOT
Cuddling services are NOT a gateway for sexual interaction. “Cuddlers” are people who want to provide comfort by making someone not feel alone, not to sell their bodies.
Now that we have that established, there’s another question that needs answering:
Who is professional cuddling good for?
After some deep thought, here is what I came up with:
People in need of therapy and/ or are anxious or stressed
When you cuddle with someone your body releases a hormone called oxytocin that has a calming effect. Therefore, having an on call “cuddler” can be a great way to give you some instant relief.
People with attachment issues
Like I previously stated, cuddling has a calming effect.
Getting comforted can be amazing, but many people struggle with separating the feeling of comfort from the person it is coming from, causing them to attach themselves to anyone who makes them feel ok when they are spiraling.
Because of this, I had an interesting thought that cuddling services would be amazing for people who fit into this category because they can get the comfort they need without the confusion of personal connections and history, allowing them to practice letting go of their source of comfort (with the use of self control).
People with intimacy issues
I am NOT a therapist, this is simply just an idea that I had, but I also thought that cuddling services may be great for people with touch-related trauma.
This service could be a way for them to get back to a place where they can be physically touched in a controlled setting (similar to exposure therapy) to show themselves it’s ok and allow themselves to feel safe without hurting relationships with anyone (like a significant other who wants physical affection).
Final Thoughts
When I first heard of people paying for someone to cuddle with them my initial thoughts were that it was weird and sounded uncomfortable. However, after reading up on it I now think that this service is an amazing thing, and could help a lot of people in need.
For personal reasons (such as being a germaphobe and someone who just prefers not to be touched) I wouldn’t take advantage of this service, but I love that this service is available for those who want and/ or need it.
Let me know in the comments, what are your thoughts on cuddling services?
