This trend extends beyond large cities, with professional cuddlers to be found everywhere from New York City to a small town in rural Alabama.Īdam Lippin, CEO of Cuddlist, spoke with Newsweek about his unusual company and his belief in the power of therapeutic touch. But why has professional cuddling become so popular?Ī quick Google search for professional cuddling reveals hundreds of individuals and companies that cater to clients seeking professional cuddling services. In the past ten years, cuddling has evolved from a simple display of affection to a successful industry centered around the philosophy of consent. Now an emerging niche market positions cuddling as a new form of therapy and self-care. At its worst, it's something people have no business attempting on a crowded subway car.
At its best, cuddling is a small tender moment shared between significant others.
The term cuddling likely brings to mind two people in a relationship, a parent and their child, or a group of exhausted college students lending each other their support.