Couples Who Cuddle Before Sleep Experience Key Health Benefits, Study Finds

Snuggling up with a partner before falling asleep could do more than just offer a sense of comfort—it may actively boost both emotional connection and lower stress levels, according to new research. A recent study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships provides evidence that the simple act of physical closeness at bedtime helps foster healthier attachment styles and can smooth the rough edges of daily stress.

Researchers at Auburn University analyzed 143 heterosexual couples who regularly shared a bed, aiming to untangle the links between their physical closeness at the onset of sleep, perceived stress, and overall relationship security. They looked at an array of influencing factors such as age, income, whether couples had children or pets sharing their space, daytime sleepiness, length of relationship, and even existing sleep diagnoses.

The findings were compelling: Couples who chose to cuddle or maintain close physical contact as they drifted off reported less attachment insecurity—the kind that causes emotional disconnect or worry about the stability of the relationship. These couples also experienced lower stress levels. However, the act of cuddling itself did not appear to influence the quality of sleep or contribute to sleep disturbances. This suggests that the benefits are primarily emotional and physiological, rather than directly improving restful slumber.

Sleep expert Wendy Troxel, PhD, emphasized the importance of these moments, noting that "the simple act of cuddling before sleep likely triggers powerful psychological and physiological responses, such as increased emotional security and the release of oxytocin—the ‘bonding hormone’ associated with intimacy." She highlighted that it’s those initial moments of closeness before sleep, not necessarily sleeping entwined all night, that have the most positive effect on relationship health.

Interestingly, the study revealed that while a majority of couples share a bed, over one-third do not touch at night. Among those who do, the range of preferred positions varied widely, from back-to-back (almost 20%) to more intimate postures like spooning or intertwining. Study co-author Josh R. Novak, PhD, explained that physical closeness at bedtime was linked with a greater sense of relational safety and reduced stress, and that nonsexual touch could play a critical role in maintaining and repairing relationships.

Novak also observed that, for most people, cuddling is a prelude to sleep rather than an all-night activity—especially as factors like body temperature and comfort become more prominent as the night progresses. He encouraged partners to embrace cuddling as a way to cope with high stress, describing it as a "nonverbal way to feel secure and safe." He even suggested that cuddling might help repair relationship conflicts that linger past the day’s end, allowing couples to reconnect physically and emotionally as they unwind together.

While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of bedtime cuddles, the consensus among experts is clear: Even a few moments of physical closeness before sleep can strengthen bonds, reduce stress, and provide a valuable nightly ritual that enhances overall well-being.