SEATTLE -- Are you ever lonely, stressed out, or depressed? Perhaps all you need is a big hug.
To give customers just that, new "Cuddle Club" has opened up in West Seattle.
The only sign you'll see from outside the building are the pillows in the window. And in the hallway directory, the words "Cuddle Club" may never catch your eye.
Lashanna Williams is hugger for hire. She opened a space full of zen and relaxation, offering cuddle sessions for members who apply. Sessions start at $45 for a half hour of cuddling.
"A space for people to come where they feel safe, where they feel nurtured," Williams said.
The 35 year old says she's trained and certified, and is already reviewing member applications. And she's not the only one embracing the trend.
Frequent cuddle parties are posted on a website, the next one in Seattle planned for this weekend.
Practitioners swear by its health benefits, of lowering stress and blood pressure, increasing serotonin levels, helping people who battle depression and PTSD.
In Portland, a studio called Cuddle Up to Me comes fully equipped with rooms, professional cuddlers and security cameras to keep both spooner and spoonee safe.
Williams installed security measures, too, and strict rules.
"It says no sexual activity is permitted, and it goes through what's acceptable here," said Williams. "No touching me where my underclothes are. You have to come clothed, you have to shower. You have to be reasonably clean."
At the neighboring freight brokerage business across the hall, the employees will tell you, it's clearly not for everyone.
"You really don't know who you are going to be cuddling with and that's really weird," said broker Julie Long.
"Oh I'll be very curious. I might even make an appointment myself," said broker David Webster.
Williams hopes people will open their minds, and their arms, to the idea.
