QUESTION: I’M IN A NEW RELATIONSHIP. WHAT ARE THE BEST CUDDLING POSITIONS TO TRY? I’M PRETTY ROMANTIC SO ANYTHING THAT UPS THE INTIMACY WOULD BE GREAT.

CUDDLING IN NEW RELATIONSHIPS.

I don’t want to confuse you here. There are not specific cuddling positions that are particularly good for any specific time in a relationship - it's really about what you feel comfortable with and what your partner feels comfortable with.

The only way to do this is to ask if someone is open to cuddling. Some people have very strong positive or negative feelings about it so communication is always key.

Cuddling has a lot of health benefits. Human beings are naturally social creatures. We're designed to interact in groups - it's just the way we are! Cuddling and intimacy release a host of feel-good chemicals in the brain including oxytocin and dopamine. Oxytocin, often nicknamed the "cuddle hormone" or "love hormone," promotes feelings of wellness, pleasure, and overall happiness. It is the main neuro-chemical that allows us to bond with other people, especially a new romantic partner.

ROMANTIC CUDDLING POSITIONS TO TRY

As I mentioned before, this is super subjective. What constitutes “romance” will depend on your personal preferences and that of your partner. But, if you are looking for my favorite intimate cuddling positions, I’d say these two are my top recommendations:

1. SPOONING (WHERE YOU'RE THE LITTLE SPOON)

Being the little spoon in the spooning position can help make you feel safe. With your partner lying behind you, holding you, you get the feeling of being supported and cradled. This can be a good position for new relationships because you're facing away from each other -meaning there is a bit less need for awkward eye contact and prolonged conversation. It's romantic because it gives you a feeling of unity and comfort.

2. CROOK OF THE ARM

Lying in the crook of your partner's arm with your arm over their chest is very intimate. You're cradled and being held by someone, which can help foster feelings of love and closeness.

XOXO GIGI

This article originally appeared as an interview with Mind Body Green.