Cuddling is one of humans' favorite pastimes, and for good reason, since it has a slew of health benefits. Not only does cuddling release the feel-good hormone oxytocin, but it also reduces our stress levels and blood pressure. While we're cuddling up next to someone and enjoying that oxytocin, we probably don't realize that our position actually says a lot about our relationship with that person.
Lying on your partner's chest signifies trust between two partners.
"Lying head to chest is a display of dominance and submission in the same way it is a demonstration of trust, affection, and love," Tonya Reiman, a body language expert, tells Elite Daily. Plus, those whose chests are being laid on usually wrap their arm around the other person, making that partner feel protected.
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Cuddling face-to-face translates to intimacy, and a deep emotional connection.
Since eye contact doesn't get any more direct than this position, it means that you're fine with being vulnerable with this other person. This is even truer if your limbs are all entangled with each other, since it signifies that your lives are also intertwined as well.
Then there's the classic spooning position, which means partners are satisfied and comfortable, according to Reiman.
The close physical contact of, you know, your bodies basically pressed together is also kind of sexual. "It's a very vulnerable position that's sexual but says, 'I trust you,'" Patti Wood, another body language, told Huffington Post. Now to break down the big spoon–little spoon dynamic, it's possible that being a woman and being the big spoon means you want to protect and nurture your partner, but you also might be a little possessive too (just the messenger here).
On the other hand, a lack of cuddling means that there's probably also a lack of emotional connection and affection, Reiman continued.
Hey, we don't have to cuddle with everyone (or every booty call).
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All in all, if cuddling is important to you and your partner, then by all means, snuggle up however you like!
And turn on some Netflix too while you're at it.
