You know, there’s a term in psychology called skin hunger. It’s when you feel this unexplained anxiety, loneliness, and just crave a hug. I used to think it was a bit dramatic until I hit my thirties. One night, I was working late, sitting alone in my living room, and all I wanted was for someone to just touch me. Nothing weird, just to know I was still alive.
That silent wish, the one I was too embarrassed to say out loud, led me to one of those self-experience places.
I used to judge these spots too, thought they were a bit odd. I’m a regular office worker, usually dressed up in a suit. But once I stepped into that room, and the door closed, cutting me off from the noisy world outside, I realized I wasn’t just letting down my guard.
The room felt cozy. Under the warm yellow light, there was a lifelike doll sitting by the bed. It looked so real, and even felt real to the touch.
When I touched that high-quality silicone, there was a slight resistance and even some warmth; it felt incredibly real. I didn’t get all emotional like some might expect; instead, I just awkwardly and gently hugged her, and I held on for a long time.
That moment was pretty special. My face was against her warm shoulder, my arms around her waist, and it felt like the emptiness I’d been carrying inside me was finally filled. Doctors say hugs help your brain release oxytocin, which makes you feel calm and happy.
Here, there’s none of that office drama, no nitpicking like on a blind date, and you don’t have to put so much effort into a relationship. She doesn’t talk, doesn’t judge me, just quietly takes all my tiredness. I actually felt a real connection from a fake person after a long time.
It might sound a little sad, I know. We have all these ways to communicate now, with our phones always buzzing, but it’s rare to truly feel someone’s warmth. We’re like porcupines, scared to get too close and hurt each other, but also scared to stay too far and freeze. When you’ve been single for a while, you even forget what a hug feels like.
When my time was up, I got my clothes together and left. I looked back at the doll, still sitting there quietly, and the shame I felt earlier was gone, replaced by a sense of calm after being healed.
As I left, I saw a sign in the shop that said, In this fast-paced city, even a hug has become a luxury, and here, I sell warmth. I thought that was so true then.
Maybe this is the last safe space for adults. If you’re feeling that skin hunger, you should give this place a try, even if it’s just for a quiet hug.
If you want to test the doll before ordering, as well you are in China, pls contact our team
