Life

5 Reasons To Cuddle During A One-Night Stand

by Emma McGowan

The term “one-night stand” means a lot of different things to different people. At its core, it’s pretty clear: You hook up for one night and that’s that. However, what happens on that one night can vary greatly, right? Some one-night stands are the hottest sex you’ve ever had; some are terrible; some you don’t even remember six months later. Additionally, people have different expectations and “rules” about one night-stands. Like, maybe you’re someone who wraps an entire romantic relationship into a single night together or maybe you’re more of a hit it and quit it type. Which brings up the question: Is it OK to cuddle and kiss on a one-night stand?

And I’m going to come down on a hard “yes” with this one. Just because a hookup is brief or isn’t going to be repeated doesn’t mean it has to be cold. If you like cuddling and kissing and want that to be a part of sex, then make it be a part of the sex you’re having! And if you’re not getting what you want from your casual sexual encounters, then it’s time to consider changing who you’re hooking up with. Casual sex, like one-night stands, can be empowering and awesome, but it can also be painful if you’re not being true to yourself.

But like I said: I’m definitely a cuddles and kisses kind of girl. So with that in mind, here are five reasons why I think you should consider cuddling and kissing during your next one-night stand:

1. People Are Usually Looking For Intimacy

It’s one of the main reasons we have sex, right? Human beings benefit from physical contact with each other, and not just of the genitalia. Kissing and cuddling are great ways to get intimate with someone, no matter if you plan on seeing them again or not.

2. They’re A Person, Not A Kleenex

If you just wanna get off, masturbate. But when you’re involving someone else in sex, it’s important to acknowledge that they’re not just a Kleenex that’s there to absorb your fluids. Giving them some kisses and cuddles with that sweet, sweet lovin’ is a good way to let them know that you respect them as a person, even if your encounter is brief.

3. It Feels Good!

Fact. Nothing like a little big spoon/little action to get you feeling a warm inside. Plus, oxytocin, the "love hormone" that's released during cuddling, is good for your health. Even better? Cuddling can often lead to sex again, and who’s not down for that on a one-night stand?

4. If You Can Touch Each Other’s Genitals, Why Not Give A Hug?

Some people avoid kissing during one-night stands because it's too personal, but I think it's totally possible to enjoy kissing and still keep hookups brief. If you're down to rub genitals, why not enjoy some spooning or kissing on the face? I'm willing to bet it'll feel good, too.

5. Kissing Is A Super Hot Part Of Sex

Mmmm hmm! It’s often the first step in sex, right? So start making out in the bar and bring it home!

Want more of Bustle's Sex and Relationships coverage? Check out our video on sex positions to make him last longer:

Images: Andrew Zaeh/Bustle; Giphy (5)