Stressed out? A G-rated “cuddle party” may help

Stressed out about the economy? 

Need a hug?

How about snuggling with strangers to relax? 

That’s what dozens of people are doing at “cuddle parties”.
It’s something that started and New York and moved west. 

At a recent Cuddle Party in Oakland, California, Marcia Baczynski is welcoming a new Cuddle Party crew. 

Baczynski co-founded a Bay area cuddle party faction. 

“The feeling we want to create at a cuddle party is a sense of fearlessness and fun”, she explains.

There are rules.

Lots of them. 

Nobody gets naked. 

Respect people’s privacy. 

Be hygienically savvy.  Occasionally taking a shower.
No alcohol, no drugs. 

Ask before you touch.

The “high” comes from spooning.

Ice breakers help the strangers get to know each other and communication is critical. 

Who comes to a cuddling party? 

You might be surprised. 

Vin De Silva ia a math professor.

“Everyone here was a stranger to me when I came here”, De Silva said.  “But I miraculously feel quite safe.“
Billy Andrade is a cuddle party regular. 

“A cuddle party is more like a refuge or a sanctuary for those who are looking for touching or nurturing,“ he explains.

Hard times have motivated more people to embrace this trend.

It’s a good place to network. 

Careers have launched in the throws of hugs.

“It’s been really interesting cause I know people have found work they’ve found roommates they’ve found furniture”, Baczynski said.  “It’s almost like a social in-person version of Craigslist sometimes.“

How much does it cost to cuddle? 

Most parties will set you back between $20 and $40.