The hug is one of the most beautiful forms of affection we humans have at our disposal. It’s at once simple and impactful: In one mere gesture, you’re enveloping your loved one in care and support. Few things compare to being wrapped up in love in any situation. But that’s especially the case in life’s saddest or most frustrating moments; whether you lack the physical or emotional energy to hug your loved one back, you know they’ll still be standing there, hugging you just the same. Really, hugs are about as physically close as we get to unconditional love. So it’s little surprise that many of us have tried to recreate this intimate embrace by dreaming up the cuddliest sex positions imaginable.
Cuddling and sex already make excellent bedfellows. Spooning sex has become so widely practiced it has earned a sex position genre of its own. And other forms of cuddling offer easy segues into deeper kinds of connection. But cuddly sex positions aren’t quite the same as cuddling sex positions. You’d never refer to a standing embrace as “cuddling,” even though it’s undeniably cuddly. The same is true of any number of hug-inspired sex positions. They’re warm, loving and intimate — but they don’t (always) offer the same relaxed ease of cuddling.
What’s nice? There are any number of ways to integrate hugs into the bedroom — some of which call for energy and others of which invite only effortlessness. Cuddly, hug-worthy sex positions can transpire from just about any angle and in just about any place. Couches, chairs and beds can serve as the back-drop for seriously hug-worthy sex — and your floor can, too. Just as there’s never a wrong time or place for a hug, there’s never really a wrong time or place for hug-inspired, cuddly sex. (OK, there are definitely some wrong times and places for sex — but we trust you can discern that on your own!)
Lap Dance
Though most of us consider hugs a face-to-face endeavor, they can just as easily happen from behind. The Lap Dance fully understands this, offering you sex that’s snuggly and stimulating in equal measure. For this position, the penetrating partner kneels down so that their butt is resting on their ankles. Then, the receiving partner kneels on their lap so their thighs straddling their partner’s. From there, the penetrating partner can pull the receiving partner closer, wrap their arms around them, and shower them with kisses — all while the receiving partner sets the pace of penetration.
Thirst
The Thirst is pretty much just missionary sex turned on its side, so that both partners can enjoy the easy comfort of lying down. If you and your partner happen to be lying in bed facing each other, you’re already well on your way to nailing the Thirst. Simply pull each other closer, entwine your legs, and use your arms to wrap each other in a tight, intimate embrace. Find what feels good, and explore a little penetrative stimulation from there.
Drape
Put your comfiest armchair to good use by trying out the Drape, a seated sex position that involves all kinds of intimate closeness. The penetrating partner sits in a chair the way they normally would — just slightly tilted, so that their butt is in one corner of the chair and their knees are in the opposite corner. Then, the receiving partner climbs on top of them, facing them, with one leg on either side of their partner’s body. From there, the receiving partner can drape their legs over one of the chair’s armrests (since the penetrating partner is sitting at a slant, the receiving partner should be able to get both legs over the same armrest) and under their partner’s armpits. From there, the penetrating partner can wrap their arms around the penetrat-ee, pulling them tight for kisses, while the receiving partner determines the speed and intensity of sex.
Tango
The Tango combines the tight embrace of spooning sex with the immense comfort of missionary, making it as easy as it is intimate. The receiving partner lies on their back, legs outstretched in front of them. The penetrating partner to lies on their side next to them, facing their partner. From there, they can slide one of their legs between the receiving partner’s and slip one of their arms under their neck, cradling them in a tight embrace. From there, you can start to kiss and explore other kinds of stimulation as you pull each other closer and snuggle up even more.
Fifth Element
The Fifth Element proves that power play and snuggly sex are far from mutually exclusive. For this position, it’s time to flip the script and put the receiving partner in control. The penetrating partner lies on their back, with their knees pulled in toward their chest — almost like they’re wrapped up in a tight little ball. Then, the receiving partner climbs on top of them, facing them, with their legs straddling their partners’ and the receiving partner’s chest pressed against the penetrating partner’s knees. From there, the receiving partner should be able to wrap their arms around their neck and kiss them while engaging in a little penetrative fun.
Tight Squeeze
The Tight Squeeze combines the inherent exhilaration of a from-behind sex position with the classic comfort of something a little snugglier. Both partners get on hands and knees with the penetrating partner behind, spooning the receiving partner. The penetrating partner’s legs should be bent and tucked behind the receiving partner’s (so neither of you is straddling their other), with their back draped on top in a tight embrace. From there, they can use one arm for stability and the other to hug the receiving partner’s torso, and you can settle into a rhythm that feels good for both of you.
Watering Can
The Watering Can is missionary, made snugglier — and with the penetrat-ee on top. To start, the penetrating partner lies down with their legs comfortably stretched in front of them. Then, the receiving partner climbs on top, straddling their legs. From there, the receiving partner can bend down to press their chest against their partner’s, wrapping their arms around their neck. The penetrating partner, meanwhile, can use their arms to create an even tighter embrace, and you can kiss and make eye contact to your heart’s content.
Oasis
The Oasis offers passion, drama, and exhilaration, all while ensuring cozy comfort (aka the perfect combination). The penetrating partner starts sitting, legs outstretched in front of them. Then, the receiving partner climbs on top to straddle them, thighs snuggled around their torso. The receiving partner can wrap their arms around their neck and shoulders, and then lean back so they can comfortably nestle their face in your chest. The end result should be a position that’s snuggly but just adventurous enough to feel exciting.
Crab
Naming a sex position the “Crab” may summon visions of bent legs and sideways movement (so hot), but the Crab is really just a snugglier take on sex from the prone position. The receiving partner lies flat on their stomach, with one leg bent and the other stretched out long. To get cozy, they can turn their head to the side and relax, the way you might if you were about to go to sleep. Then, the penetrating partner climbs on top and mirrors the same shape; their head, back, and legs should all be in line, though they can use their elbows and knees to elevate their body to hover slightly over their partner. From there, they can stay lifted or press their body into down to offer a closer, tighter embrace.
A version of this story was published May 2020.
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