I've found myself reflecting on this topic over the years and it's come up in conversation with friends and cuddle colleagues many times. I'd love to share my thoughts and insights with you.
So what are the benefits of both cuddling a friend in a platonic way and also hiring a Cuddle Therapist? Are there any disadvantages? Let's explore.
Cuddling a friend can bring you both into deeper connection with each other and you can find out things about the other and yourself which can be enlightening. Boundaries can be strengthened as cuddling a friend can give us the opportunity to set and uphold a boundary, for example keeping the vibe and intention platonic. The friendship can go to a whole new level of vulnerability and authenticity which can feel deeply satisfying and rich. Another positive is that communication can become better between the friends.
A downside may be a distrust in the friend if they don't respect boundaries. It may feel unbalanced if, for example, one person is always giving. Also, the exchange may be unclear, for example one person may want to receive lots of touch and cuddles and then feel guilty or have a need to give something back (this could turn into a positive though - better communication and negotiation of an exchange).
Hiring a Pro has many benefits. Here are some of them: there are clear boundaries and a clear exchange. Cuddling a stranger is sometimes what people want because there is no backstory or history with the person so it feels like a clean slate. I've heard that clients gain clarity around what their needs are, what they really want and then can seek out other services to get those needs met.
Sometimes a person can open up and share more vulnerably with a person they don't know because they feel more accepted and safe. A Pro is more likely to have better listening and communication skills (this might be a very general statement).
I believe most Pro Cuddlers are doing this line of work because they have a genuine care for others and love for supporting people.
Any downsides? The client may not "vibe" or feel at ease when they meet and not be able to relax. They may not enjoy the session because they don't resonate with the Pro's personality. The client possibly may have had some expectations which were not met.
Overall, there seems to be many benefits to both. It's good to weigh up both sides and reflect.
If you have any other benefits you've experienced or downsides please share.
Happy cuddling!
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