Cuddling With Your Partner May Help You Sleep Better, Scientists Say

Feeling emotionally close to your partner may have a positive effect on your sleep, according to research on connection, stress, and relaxation.

Scientists explain that moments of affection, such as cuddling or sharing a calm moment with someone you trust, can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone linked to bonding and relaxation.

Oxytocin may help calm the nervous system, reduce stress responses, and support a more relaxed state, making it easier for some people to fall asleep.

A 2022 study involving 80 couples over five days examined the relationship between oxytocin levels, emotional closeness, and sleep quality. Researchers found that participants who reported higher oxytocin levels also reported better sleep experiences.

The findings suggest that feeling secure and connected in a relationship may contribute to improved rest.

However, experts note that cuddling is not a replacement for medical treatment for sleep disorders, and the effect can vary from person to person.

Those quiet moments with a loved one may still play a role in helping the body and mind relax before bedtime.