Need a little more than just a vent session with your friends to release stress after a long day? Seattle might have just what you need. According to NBC News, a new “Cuddle Club” has opened in West Seattle, promising a zen, peaceful space where you can come to feel safe and nurtured.
Lashanna Williams, a professional “hugger for hire“, has opened up a one-of-a-kind space in which cuddle sessions are offered to only pre-screened members of the business. She claims to thoroughly examine membership applications before admitting people into the Cuddle Club, to ensure that it’s a safe environment for everyone.
The 35-year-old has also created strict rules and security measures to ensure that both parties can feel comfortable and free from harm during the cuddle session. “It says no sexual activity is permitted, and it goes through what’s acceptable here,” explains Williams of her requirements within the club. “No touching me where my underclothes are. You have to come clothed, you have to shower. You have to be reasonably clean.”
Cuddling with a stranger may seem extraordinarily strange to anyone outside of the practice, however, devotees swear there are health benefits to participating in the club. Some of which include, lower blood pressure and stress levels, a rise in serotonin levels and help for those who suffer from depression, KTVB reports.
Seattle seems to be accepting the trend easier than we may have thought. Frequent cuddle parties have been scheduled within the city, occurring every three to four weeks with locations and dates listed on this website. According to their site, these cuddle parties have members of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations, proving it’s open to everyone.
I’m not sure how long any Cuddle Club can stay scandal free (I mean, people can be crazy), but for now, it seems like a good way to beat loneliness. To that I say, cuddle on, people!
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