Act of cuddling puts everyday worries to bed

While snuggling is usually associated with the after-sex period, new information shows it could essentially save a person's life.

A report put out by the British Broadcasting Corporation on Aug. 8, 2005 states a team from the University of North Carolina surveyed the effects of hugs on 38 couples over a prolonged amount of time. The results concluded that hugs increased the level of oxytocin, a naturally occurring chemical in humans.

"It's sometimes called the 'cuddle hormone,' because it seems that hugging can

increase this hormone's excretion," said Marvin Druger, a biology professor at SU. "Oxytocin is related to reproduction and calms you; it makes you feel good."

The study showed hugs and snuggling can increase the level of oxytocin in the

body, which lowers the amount of cortisol adrenial gland hormone, a substance directly related to the amount of stress in a body. More oxytocin in the body can reduce blood pressure and cut down the risk of heart disease and other stress related occurrences, Druger said.

Cuddling, also known as hugging, snuggling and spooning, clearly has more purposes than it seems at first glance.

One of the main advantages in a cold place like Syracuse is that cuddling is still a friendly and inviting way to stay warm. Finding a cuddle buddy can help keep one cozy, as well as giving the distinct possibility of leading to more then friendship. Yet, as national research shows, there may be more to this activity than just hoping to start a winter fling.

"Warm and protected," said Tung Xuan Nguyen, an undecided freshman in The College of Arts and Sciences, when describing it. "Cuddling is an art; you need to know the right way to touch."

Cuddling is such a popular activity among the SU community that there has even been a facebook group devoted to it. Jillian Blinkof, an undecided sophomore in The College of Arts and Sciences, is a co-creator of the group "Syracuse is for Spooners." Blinkoff, who holds the title of "bootylicious back spoon," felt the group was necessary and something she encourages others to look into.

"I started it because cuddling is comforting; it makes me happy," Blinkoff said. "I

think people who don't want to be lonely should join. Plus it's always nice to stop for a little spooning break."

The reason behind these "hugging hormone" effects has been the topic of much debate. Although there is strong biological evidence, research for the effects of cuddling is still being done since it has a deep root in human psychology.

"There is research showing that people are less reactive to stress if there is a supportive person in the room," said Dr. Randall S. Jorgensen, associate professor of psychology at SU. "If a person does get respect and feedback from other people in a supportive contact, it can help them deal with stress."

A relationship in which one knows that another person is around to support them, both mentally and physically, can provide an outlet for stress and reduce tension in everyday life. This reassurance and validation may be the actual source for this increase in oxytocin, not the hug itself.

"People who are alone and isolated have higher risk if disease because they are not connected to others," Jorgensen said. "A genuine relationship where you can be yourself and the person will accept you for who you are is better than a bunch of superficial connections. Healthy relationships contribute to a higher quality of life."

Like many things that help relieve stress, cuddling done within the wrong context can add to the tension rather than actually reduce it.

"I was cuddling with a girl last year and I saw it as a friend thing; she, on the other hand, wanted a relationship," said Rich Chetney, a senior environmental and forest biology major at State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry. "One night she told me she loved me, and I stopped the cuddling. Basically cuddling is fine between two individuals who are together, or if you are just friends."

After a long day of studying, cuddling can be a nice relaxing break. Students all over SU campus have an appreciation for an activity that is believed to scientifically bond people together.

"My friends and I usually cuddle," said Victoria Del Prato, a freshman public relations major. "When it is late at night and it has been a long, stressful day, it's a nice bonus; a good conclusion at the end of the day."