What is spooning?

We spoke to relationship expert Rachel Lloyd, from eharmony , about how spooning can not only benefit your health but your relationship, too. A hormone called oxytocin — which is affectionately known as the cuddle chemical or love hormone — is released when two people spoon, alongside dopamine and serotonin. And, the humble act of spooning can really deepen feelings of intimacy. This boosts the immune system and reduces anxiety. Our skin is the largest organ we have and the skin-to-skin contact which occurs during spooning makes us feel safe with our partner. Much like how a crying baby is soothed by skin contact.

This type of cuddling is called spooning because the two people resemble two spoons resting neatly against each other in a utensils drawer. Spooning could simply mean you want to comfort someone or be comforted. Or perhaps, the one who is comforting the other person. You can also spoon with a stuffed animal, pillow, or anything else you can comfortably wrap your arms around. Lie down.

If for some reason you haven't been cuddling with your partner after sex, you probably didn't realize that post-sex intimacy is just as important for many people as foreplay. Whether you struggle with intimacy issues or not, a little thing called spooning doesn't take much effort at all, and can actually reap some benefits for you and your partner. Sometimes some of us just want to be held, ya know? Spooning refers to lying on your side with a partner or more!

And what are some other options for couples looking for a nighttime bonding session? Oxytocin , affectionately known as the cuddle chemical or love hormone, is said to release when two people spoon. So is dopamine and serotonin.