In our cold, digital, compartmentalized world, is a lack of platonic physical contact with other humans causing us to wither like plants denied sunlight?
Jackie Samuels, a 29-year-old New Yorker working towards her masters degree in social work, charges clients $60 for an hour-long session of explicitly non-sexual snuggling. The venture is apparently going quite well, and it seems to reflect both the widespread wish for non-virtual connection and the continuing monetization of everything. (Will warm smiles soon be sold on subway platforms for ten cents?)
Samuels concocted the idea after an experiment in selling hugs on the street for a dollar proved wildly successful. Her website, called the The Snuggery, explains:
“Jacqueline established The Snuggery because she believes in the healing power of touch. The Snuggery is a place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and focus on the simple restorative pleasure of touch. Though science has unquestionably supported the psychological and physical benefits of non-sexual touch, Americans distinctly lack it. It’s time for change. At The Snuggery, Jacqueline provides individuals with private snuggling sessions. She aims to make the world a gentler place, one snuggle at a time.”
