Many people – when they consider cuddling – think of it as an activity that happens before or after sex. While those are terrific times to cuddle, I’m an advocate of opening up the touch repertoire to include platonic activities and platonic people. One way to do that is to invite playfulness. Here are suggestions to deepen your sense of whimsy and enhance your sense of play while cuddling.

Onesies

There are two categories of outfits that are basically made for cuddling: pajamas and onesies. Choose pajamas that are comfy and “adorkable”:

Or go all out and invest in a onesie:

Games

The Animal Game

While cuddling, ask your cuddle buddy the name of an animal. Now it’s your turn. Think of an animal that starts with the last letter of the animal your cuddle buddy said:

Ant (ends with a “T”)

Tiger (ends with an “R”)

Roadrunner (ends with another “R”)

Places Game

This is just like the Animal Game. Instead of animals, use cities, states, countries and continents:

Florida (ends with an “A”)

Arkansas (ends with an “S”)

South Carolina (ends with another “A)

Gratitude Game

While cuddling, take turns with your cuddle buddy thinking of stuff you’re grateful for:

“I’m grateful for goat cheese.”

“I’m grateful for purple flowers in my garden.”

“I’m grateful for tennis.”

Laughter

Try fake laughing together for 30 seconds. Even if you feel foolish, keep going for 30 seconds. This activity strengthens your core and makes people in other rooms wish they were hanging out with you guys.