Cuddling therapist makes £18,000 a year hugging and throwing strangers

CARE Kristiina Link earns £18,000 a year spending hours hugging and flirting with strangers.

Kristiina, 30, is a certified “cuddle therapist” and offers to hug people who feel lonely and isolated.

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Her unusual service includes holding hands, stroking her hair and hugging clients for up to three hours at a time, including in her double bed.

Kristiina, who says there are mental benefits to the workout, earns up to £170 per session and more than £1,500 a month.

She attended a training course after breaking up three years ago.

“I missed the cuddling and cuddling side of a relationship,” explains Kristiina.

“I think there should be a service where people help each other and cuddle.

Hugs release the love hormone oxytocin, which is known to help alleviate loneliness, anxiety, and depression.

“In my work, I see so many people feeling isolated because of the pandemic as well as those who are grieving and need physical comfort.

“I start by playing soothing music, holding hands, and I encourage deep breathing.

“We cuddle in many positions like standing up and spooning. Boundaries are always discussed before we start.”

Kristiina, in Stratford, East Londonemphasizes that her visiting clients – mostly men and mostly between the ages of 30 and 40 – understand that “cuddle is a form of pure touch therapy”.

Meanwhile, she’s getting lots of hugs from her new love, partner Matt, 44.

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