Bedtime Cuddling May Lower Stress and Improve Sleep in Adults

A meta review of six adult studies suggests that brief skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, or sleeping close to a partner at bedtime may reduce stre

A review of six adult studies suggests that brief skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, or sleeping close to a partner at bedtime may reduce stress hormone levels, lower blood pressure and heart rate reactivity, and improve certain aspects of sleep quality. These benefits appear strongest for people with lower attachment security, and they don’t seem to disrupt sleep for most.

Study Details

Scientists have long known that affectionate touch triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone tied to bonding and relaxation, and can dampen the body’s stress responses. But until recently, most research focused on babies and mothers. Researchers systematic review looked at six studies that examined how bedtime touch affects adult sleep and stress physiology.

The evidence included one randomized trial, several controlled laboratory studies, a small sleep-lab crossover trial, and large diary-based relationship studies. The participants were healthy adults, often in committed relationships, and the “touch” ranged from hand-holding to full cuddling to sleeping in physical contact.

Methodology

Researchers searched medical databases for studies in which adults engaged in non-sexual, affectionate touch just before sleep or during sleep onset, and where researchers measured stress biology (like cortisol levels, blood pressure, or heart rate) or sleep outcomes (via polysomnography or validated questionnaires). Researchers excluded infant care, sexual activity, and touch from devices like weighted blankets to focus only on human touch.

Key Findings

1. Stress buffering

   • One randomized trial found that either self-soothing touch or a hug before a stressful event led to lower cortisol levels afterward.

   • Other lab studies showed that brief warm contact with a partner before a challenge reduced blood pressure and heart rate spikes, and in some cases increased oxytocin levels.

2. Sleep quality and architecture

   • In a small sleep-lab study, couples sleeping together had higher sleep efficiency and more REM sleep compared with nights spent apart.

   • Diary studies found that spending more time in bed together was linked to better self-reported sleep quality in women with lower attachment security.

   • A recent study of 143 couples found that those starting the night in closer physical contact reported lower relationship stress and felt more secure without reporting worse sleep.

3. No evidence of harm

   • None of the studies found that bedtime cuddling worsened sleep quality overall. Many couples naturally drift apart once asleep, which may help regulate comfort and temperature.

Implications for Practice

For individuals: Even a few minutes of gentle physical contact holding hands, a short cuddle before turning out the lights may help calm your nervous system and ease the transition to sleep.

For couples: If both partners are comfortable, starting the night with physical closeness may help reduce stress and support emotional connection. Those with relationship stress or lower feelings of security might see the biggest benefits.

For healthcare providers: These findings support the inclusion of bedtime touch as part of a holistic approach to improving sleep hygiene and stress resilience. Importantly, providers should consider comfort, personal boundaries, and cultural factors.