Cuddle therapist makes £18,000 a year hugging and spooning strangers
CARING Kristiina Link makes £18,000 a year spending hours hugging and spooning strangers.
Kristiina, 30, is a certified “cuddle therapist” and offers to embrace those feeling lonely and isolated.
Her unusual service involves hand holding, hair stroking and hugging clients for up to three hours at a time, including in her double bed.
Kristiina, who says there are many emotional benefits to the practice, earns up to £170 per session and more than £1,500 a month.
She took a training course after a break-up three years ago.
Kristiina explained: “I was missing the cuddling and affectionate side of a relationship.
“I thought there should be a service where people help each other and cuddle.
Hugs release the love hormone oxytocin, which is known to help with loneliness, anxiety and depression
“In my work, I see a lot of people who are feeling isolated because of the pandemic as well as those who are grieving and in need of physical comfort.
“I start by playing calming music, handholding and I encourage deep breathing.
“We cuddle in multiple positions such as standing up and spooning. Boundaries are always discussed before we begin.”
Kristiina, of Stratford, East London, stressed that her visiting clients — who are mostly men and mainly aged 30 to 40 — understand that “cuddling is a form of platonic touch therapy”.
Meanwhile, she is receiving plenty of hugs herself from her new love, partner Matt, 44.
