“Professional cuddling offers soothing touch and comfort in a safe, calm environment,” says Mary Tucker, a local business woman who hopes to open RVA’s first cuddling salon, The Holding Company.
“Professional cuddling offers soothing touch and comfort in a safe, calm environment,” says Mary Tucker, a local business woman who hopes to open RVA’s first cuddling salon, The Holding Company.
What is a cuddling salon? Well, it’s kind of exactly what it sounds like – customers come in and pay to be snuggled.
“Sessions may include whatever makes the client happy and relaxed, such as spooning in bed, talking over tea, reading to each other while snuggling on the sofa, even ‘movie night,'” said Tucker in a press release announcing the project.
Tucker’s dreams are starting small, with one location in an already established hair salon, but she hopes to open multiple locations within 3 years.
“Numerous studies have cites the health benefits of touch, such as lowering blood pressure and heart rate, increasing immune function and relieving pain by reducing cortisol and increasing oxytocin levels in the body,” writes Tucker.
Sessions will be $60 an hour, with options for more or less. Clients will meet with an assigned pro-cuddler in a public, neutral location prior to starting their session to discuss policies and expectations.
“No nudity or sexual contact will be tolerated,” clarified Tucker. “Video cameras will be in use during all sessions for the security of everyone involved.”
Still confused? Check out this CNN story on Japan’s own version of a similar venture:
There’s also an Indiegogo campaign hoping to help raise funds for the project. Check it out and donate here!
You can keep up with the Holding Company via Facebook here.
The first Holding Company is set to open in Feb, 2015. Stay tuned, because we’ll be on this as soon as more news is released.
