Unique Career: Cuddle Therapist Earns Big by Offering Emotional Support
An Unconventional Job in East London
In the quest for income, individuals often engage in various jobs, some of which are quite unusual yet lucrative. Take, for instance, 30-year-old Kristiina Link from Stratford, East London. Kristiina provides comfort to distressed and depressed individuals by hugging them and even sleeping alongside them. This part-time role allows her to earn substantial amounts each month.
Charging £170 for Three Hours
For her unique 'cuddle therapy,' Kristiina charges £170 (approximately ₹17,000) for a three-hour session. Her therapy includes holding hands, stroking hair, and cuddling while sleeping. Typically, she charges around ₹6,500 for a one-hour session but offers a 25% discount for three-hour bookings. She limits her sessions to a maximum of three hours, which enables her to earn a significant monthly income.
How She Started This Unique Profession
Kristiina identifies herself as a cuddle therapist, aiming to provide emotional support and mental relief to her clients. She embarked on this unconventional career after experiencing a breakup in 2019. Following her heartbreak and subsequent feelings of loneliness, she completed a snuggling training course, which has now become her profession.
Sessions Begin with Soothing Music
Kristiina helps those who feel a lack of love and attachment by alleviating their stress through cuddling. The act of hugging releases oxytocin, often referred to as the love hormone, which combats loneliness and stress. She starts her sessions by playing calming music to help relax the mind, followed by cuddling with her clients on a double bed.
Boundaries in Therapy Sessions
During the sessions, Kristiina holds her clients' hands, strokes their hair, and ensures they feel comfortable. She changes her sleeping position every 15 minutes to maintain a dynamic interaction. However, there are certain boundaries in place; she focuses solely on providing emotional support and ensures that her clients do not misconstrue the cuddling for physical intimacy.
Kristiina also discusses with her clients the extent to which they are comfortable with hugging and touching. She notes that some individuals may initially be apprehensive about hair and arm stroking, so she makes it a point to communicate about their boundaries.
Support from Her Boyfriend
Currently, Kristiina is in a relationship. Her boyfriend has no objections to her profession and understands her professional needs. Kristiina mentions that people often misinterpret her work, but she clarifies that her primary goal is to provide mental support to others.