How much can cuddling reduce stress?

Hafeez explains that “cuddling triggers the release of oxytocin, which relieves stress. Less stress, less anxiety and lower blood pressure all mean less strain on the heart.” She adds that “touch is critical to our well being, and it has been said that just 20 seconds of cuddling can improve mood for up to 24 hours.”

Do cuddles help anxiety?

Scientists have found that touch can reduce anxiety in people with low self-esteem. Touch can also keep people from isolating themselves when reminded of their mortality. They found that even touching an inanimate object — in this case a teddy bear — helped reduce people's fears about their existence.