TOUCH (noun or verb)

to come into or be in contact with something so as to feel it

the quality of something touched that imparts a sensation
close communication

Touch is the first sense we develop in the womb. We know babies thrive on touch, especially in those first moments and weeks after birth, because it helps them feel connected to their caregivers and the new world around them.

Well, guess what? YOU might thrive on touch, too!

Whether we know it or not, we still need a healthy dose of touch, even as adults. We may not recognize that we crave it, especially if we lack nourishing touch or experience an overabundance of draining touch (from adorable and needy smaller humans, as an example).

Touch is intimate because it involves contact with our bodies. It is also a powerful and personal form of communication. One way to relate with our bodies is to discover and nurture our sense of touch.

Engaging in non-sexual self-touch invites us to slow down and be with ourselves more fully. Offering our loving touch to ourselves and our bodies sends an intimate message of connection. It’s like saying “hey, I feel you and I love you” or “hey, I want to feel more of you and I want to love you.” You may be amazed at what happens when your body receives this type of care and attention from you.

Nurturing yourself allows you to more effortlessly nurture those around you. Do you know where and how your body enjoys being nurtured through touch? Even if you’ve explored touch before, I invite you to discover where and how touch might nourish you.

"Touch comes before sight, before speech.
It is the first language, and the last,
and it always tells the truth."
- Margaret Atwood

A TOUCH PRACTICE
(3-4 minutes)

Begin by choosing a song that feels good to you, like you're being wrapped in a soft, warm blanket. Find a simple way to open your practice such as lighting a candle or dimming the lights. Then, while seated or lying down, begin to tune your attention inward to your breath by softening your gaze or allowing your eyes to close. When you feel ready allow your hands to begin gently nuzzling one another. Stay with that or let your hands start to move intuitively around your body, noticing where else your body might call for your touch. Practice tuning into the sensations of your hands in contact with your body - taking in the varied textures of your clothing fabrics, skin, and/or hair. No parts of your body are off limits to your own touch and there is no wrong way to touch - some of us like softer touch and others more firm. You get to decide. The possibilities for touch are endless. The key is doing your best to stay curious. Sometimes it may feel like a lot is happening, and other times, very little.

This practice may feel pleasurable.
It may also bring up feelings of all kinds (even numbness or resistance).
With unconditional friendliness, permit yourself to feel the feelings fully.
No feeling is wrong.

Continue breathing and sensing (even with a still hand) until the song comes to an end.

Close your practice by honoring yourself and anything that unfolded during your exploration. You can also take a few moments to reflect on your experience by journaling or sharing with a trusted friend.

If you prefer to be held and guided in practices like this one, that’s what I do during a 1:1 Deeper Dive. I’d love to work with you. Send me a message.

Nurturing Your Body With Touch