By Adesuwa Ewoigbokhan

Almost everyone loves a rainy day; with a cooler temperature, it presents a perfect setting to lay back, relax and unwind.

There is no better time to snuggle than when you hear the sound and smell of fresh rain.

There is no denying the fact that cuddles can be lovely. Partners who indulge in it are happier and end up with a deeper connection and better relationship.

Grab a blanket, soft pillow, curl around your comfy spouse and allow the magic of cuddling work from there. Don’t forget that kisses are freebies for cuddling.

See below reasons why rainy days can be some of the best days for couples who stay together and who cuddle.

It boosts immune system: aside from oxytocin, cuddling also releases the ‘happy hormone’ serotonin.

The combination of both work together to boost your immune system. Do you still remember that feeling when you first met your spouse?

That warm and fuzzy feeling was probably caused by the release of the feel-good hormone. This also is release during cuddles. If you are happy and healthy, possibility of falling sick is very narrow.

According to a 2014 study from researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, they found that people who hugged were less likely to contact a cold after being exposed to the cold virus while those who did get sick, had less severe symptoms. Getting regular hugs sounds a whole lot better than drinking vitamin-C daily.

Intimate bond: Cuddling in the early stages of a relationship helps to create an intimate bond. It is also powerful for connecting with a romantic mate, giving you room to just focus on one another. “Cuddling helps release oxytocin, which is a bonding hormone that helps us feel close,” explains relationship therapist Isiah McKimmie.

Eases stress: Getting cuddles from a loved one can instantly help to ease stress by releasing oxytocin, which is like an all natural anti- anxiety medication. It also decreases the level of cortisol-the ‘stress hormone. Take advantage of ten minutes hug from your partner after a stressful day at work. It will reduce social anxiety and help you face your fears.

It keeps the spark alive: It’s no secret that in marriage, the exciting spark you had when you first met has the tendency of turning into a gentler fizzle, rather than an exploding firework.

Though not a bad thing, it only means you are comfortable around your significant other. A major way to keeping the fire burning is through regular physical contact. In addition to caressing, cuddling constantly is vital for long-term relationship satisfaction.

Most people believe that there are some men that don’t like cuddles. This is not true as being cuddled is one way to show love and affection for one another. Although there is the perception that men often want sex, bear in mind that cuddling is equally important to them as well.

It usually leads to more sex: a cuddle is not always just a cuddle since being touched, releases dopamine which increases sexual desire as well as that wondrous oxytocin, which a lady needs to prepare for sex.

It is an awesome way to start foreplay that leads to more fun times, a win-win for both of you. Love-making also has plenty of gains including strengthening your relationship, relieving stress and of course, as a form of physical exercise.

A study found that couples who engage in affection after sex, such as cuddling, kissing and spooning are more sexually fulfilled; especially, those that have children.

For spouses that are too shy to tell their partners “I love you” or can’t find the words to say how they feel at that moment, can simply just shower their partners with cuddles and affection which is an easy way to say “I love you.”

Helps to reduce your risk of heart disease: The release of oxytocin is responsible for this because it also works to reduce stress, blood pressure and anxiety. The oxytocin released by cuddling, works to reduces your risk of heart disease too. You feeling happier helps to put less pressure on the heart. This way, you stay healthier.

Summer months can make cuddling a bit uncomfortable. This is because you feel like you are going to drown in sweat: whereas, the winter months come with the freezing nights that are basically made for cuddling. Because it’s cooler, you are not only more inclined to snuggle up to your guy/lady, but you’re also probably spending more time inside.

On a final note, cuddling is highly recommended for couple’s intimacy. It does not always have to lead to intercourse but, you can go for it if you are in the mood. Cuddling is all about bonding and relaxation. So, take time out to connect and cuddle when next it rains.