Sometimes we get stuck in a rut when it comes to choosing seating, not realising how many great alternatives are on offer to the standard three-piece suite or sofa set. For example, who knew there was a whole range of chairs completely dedicated to cuddling? We’ve taken it upon ourselves to inform the masses – read on to discover which chair is right for you, and all your cuddly needs.

If you’re a serial cuddler, you’ll know there’s nothing quite like getting cosied up with someone you love. Whether you’re watching a movie or mulling over the day’s events, it’s one of life’s best comforts. And there’s scientific research out there to prove it. When we cuddle, our bodies produce feel-good hormones, which boost our mood and make us feel genuinely happier¹.

The power of love: 3 unsung health benefits of cuddling

1. It can make you less stressed: It’s been proven that making skin to skin contact with another human sends a signal to our brains to cut back on cortisol production – the hormone associated with stress. So, when you’re feeling done-in from a long day at the office, what better way to relax than to snuggle your stress away?
2. It makes you feel happy: Cuddling can, quite incredibly, stimulate our parasympathetic systems – or relaxation systems. In short, it causes us to release serotonin, oxytocin and dopamine, otherwise known as happy hormones². Cuddle-induced happiness? Now there’s something to smile about!
3. It helps you stave off illness: All the feel-good hormones mentioned above not only make us feel happy, but play an integral part in keeping our immune system strong³. Cuddles vs colds? There’s a clear winner in our minds.

Choosing the perfect cuddling platform

Sure, you can snuggle up on a sofa, but why stick to conventional cuddling methods when you can get cosied up on a seat dedicated to just that? Here are our top picks of cuddle-friendly furniture…

Cosy up on a cuddle chair

Cuddle chairs – also known as snuggle chairs – are one of the best inventions of the furniture world and it’s time more people knew about them. The perfect size for two, these comfort kings are slightly bigger than an armchair, but smaller than a two-seater sofa, giving you enough room to snuggle up without feeling squashed. From luxurious fabric to sleek and stylish leather cuddle chairs, there are tons of options to choose from when it comes to finding the perfect match for your home. We love cuddle chairs because they blend in nicely with other furnishings, and – even though we’re all for the cuddling – they can offer the perfect place to kick back and get comfy for solo-relaxers too.

Hang out on a hammock

For the more adventurous (or laid-back?) among us, the hammock offers the ultimate cuddle spot. Plus, they’re great for those looking to experiment with interior or exterior design, bringing a fantastic, bohemian vibe to any space, indoors or out.

If you love to chill outside, hanging a hammock big enough for two across a decked area is the perfect excuse to laze in the sun with your other half. You can get creative with the kind of hammock you choose, either opting for something soft and loose, or going for a more structured, net version that feels not unlike like a bed. Cuddling the hours away in the warm evening sun? We’ll say yes to that.

Doze on a day bed

If you read our article about the power of day-time napping, you’re sure to be excited by the prospect of day beds, which do exactly what they promise. A stylish focal point for any garden, they’re not only great for afternoon dozing, but for cuddling and even socialising too. Bring a laid-back beach look to your outdoor space and settle in for an afternoon of snuggling, chatting or snoozing. Who knew it was possible to be this comfortable during the day?

Lose track of time on a love seat

Love seats are the cuddle chair’s elegant sister, often coming in a sophisticated design that’s perfect for whiling away the hours in style. They’re usually slightly bigger than a cuddle chair, and more structured too – think sitting with a cup of tea in one hand and your other half’s hand in the other. Plus, they’re fantastic for those tricky spaces where there’s not quite enough room for a sofa, but where an arm chair would look lost.  

Whisper sweet nothings on a swivel chair

Swivel cuddle chairs don’t just offer the ultimate in cosiness, they’re actually great fun too. We like them because they add a little ‘je ne sais quoi’ to a room, in funky designs which serve to maximise cuddle-ability. They can be squishy and soft or sleek and stylish. But most importantly, they’re perfect for cosying up with your loved one… or swivelling around to get the best TV-viewing angle possible. Romantic, or what?

Whether you’re a cuddle-chair-cuddler, a swivel chair cuddler, an indoor, outdoor or just plain anywhere cuddler, there’s a comfortable snuggle-ready chair out there with your name on it. And with all the health benefits to be reaped from cuddling, there’s more reason than ever to find the perfect place for it.

¹http://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/benefits-of-cuddling/it-strengthens-your-bond/slide/3
²https://www.nature.com/articles/srep03034
³http://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/benefits-of-cuddling/it-strengthens-your-bond/slide/6