CUDDLE AND THERAPEUTIC TOUCH SERVICES

I believe that platonic touch is essential for health. Touch releases oxytocin, known as the “love hormone/cuddle chemical”, which reduces stress and anxiety and increases trust and relaxation…all much needed in today’s tech heavy, low touch environment.

When I talk to others about being a professional Cuddler, I usually begin with “What I do is kind of weird.” I think it’s best to put that out there up front. (You may not think it’s weird, but I’m originally from a very small town…many people there would think it’s weird.) However, cuddling is also powerful and needed. It wasn’t long ago that therapeutic massage and meditation were viewed skeptically. Given time, I know cuddling will reach the same level of enthusiasm and acceptance as those modalities.

In our session together, there are limitless ways that we can cuddle. We can hold hands and talk or hug and just breathe. We can spoon, nap, watch a show, trade massages, or try our hands at the various snuggle positions in the Cuddle Sutra. It’s up to you. All cuddling is clothed and platonic. Communication and consent are an integral aspect of cuddling sessions so I will encourage you to share your wants. Most people are hesitant to ask for what they want so my goal is to create a welcoming space where you feel comfortable sharing with me. I will provide a nurturing environment without judgment where both laughter and tears are welcome.

What is platonic play? Any number of activities can fall under platonic play. Platonic play refers to activities that provide enjoyment or pleasure and are not intended to cause or involve sexual arousal.

Platonic play can involve playing games (video or board), doing puzzles, building a LEGO set together or painting miniatures. It can be role playing or touch centered on specific (non-genital) body parts. 

If you have something that provides you pleasure or just piques your interest (and it’s legal and non-sexual) and you have been hesitant to ask for it, I encourage you to do just that. Ask for it. I may not be open to providing it, but I will not “yuck your yum.” We all have different, unique interests and I welcome you to share yours with me without shame or fear of judgement.

Social companionship can involve any number of activities: dining out, going to a movie, attending an event, going for a walk or other activities that would be enhanced by having a companion there with you. Enjoying all of these activities solo can be wonderful, but there are times that sharing an experience with another enhances the overall experience. 

Social companionship does not include cuddling. Although a hug is almost always offered, and welcomed when asked for, I do not combine social companionship sessions with cuddling sessions as this can blur the lines of our professional relationship. 

Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to hug someone to comfort them, but you held back because you didn’t know if that’s really what they wanted, and you didn’t want to do something wrong? Or you proactively hugged someone and felt them stiffen in your arms sending you the signal that they really didn’t want to be touched in that way?  How about the first kiss? In the age of consent and boundaries, can you just go in for that kiss or do you need to ask? Is it just awkward asking or can it enhance the moment?

Communication around intimacy can be daunting. Being comfortable asking for what you want is a learned skill. Setting personal boundaries and asking for consent are learned skills. It takes time and practice to be comfortable initiating intimacy in a consent based, respectful way. This is the place to practice and become comfortable with these skills.

Communication Skills Sessions can be coupled with a cuddle session. During all cuddle sessions we practice consent by asking before trying new touch or positions, but with these sessions we can role play beyond cuddling. What are the relationship/intimate (still platonic) situations that you want to practice and to build confidence? Communication Sessions can also be solely about role-playing scenarios and skill building. This is time to talk about these relationship dynamics, practice verbally setting boundaries, asking for what we want, learning to respect the answers from others, and building intimacy in a respectful, consent based manner.