Name: Somatics and the Healing Power of Touch with Lisa Daugherty
Start: 2025-11-15T16:00:00-05:00
End: 2025-11-15T18:00:00-05:00
Location: CITYOGA School of Yoga and Health

Somatics and the Healing Power of Touch with Lisa Daugherty

ROOM
With Lisa Daugherty & Guest Teacher Zelideh Martinez Hoy
**This gathering is for those who identify as women —a space to return to yourself, to be held in presence, and to reconnect in sacred community.**
Meet Your Facilitators
Lisa Daugherty is a seasoned somatics practitioner passionate about building safer, more connected communities through body-based healing. Zelideh Martinez Hoy, M.S.Ed, Ph.D., is a 200-hour certified yoga instructor, yin yoga teacher, and cuddle therapist with a deep background in trauma-informed education and embodied care.
Event Details:
Join us at Cityoga for Somatics and the Healing Power of Touch, a heart-opening and restorative experience co-facilitated by friends and colleagues Lisa Daugherty and Zelideh Martinez Hoy. Through the lens of somatics, trauma-informed care, and consensual touch, this unique offering creates a safe and soulful space where participants can reconnect to themselves and one another. This workshop blends gentle movement, somatic techniques, and platonic cuddle sessions to support emotional regulation, connection, and community. With a strong emphasis on clear communication, consent, and body awareness, you’ll experience practices that nourish your nervous system and offer deep repair for anyone navigating stress, or social isolation. Touch is powerful—it releases oxytocin, often called the “hug hormone”, which fosters wellbeing, reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and helps you feel seen, safe, and supported.
Why a Women-Only Space?
We are intentionally creating this space for those who identify as women (inclusive of trans women, non-binary folks, and femme-aligned individuals) because we recognize that gendered socialization, lived experiences, and trauma histories can significantly impact how people experience their bodies, touch, and connection. Many women—especially those healing from trauma—benefit from environments where they feel physically and emotionally safe, free from the male gaze, and surrounded by others with shared or similar lived experiences. This space is designed to foster deep safety, care, and community in a container where connection can emerge with ease. If you’re unsure whether this space is right for you, we invite you to reach out—we’re happy to talk.
What to Expect
A welcome circle to ground and connect
Relaxation and communication exercises to support comfort and consent
A gentle introduction to cuddle etiquette
A guided “cuddle laboratory” for safe, consensual, platonic touch
Options for non-touch participation for those who prefer to witness, rest, or simply be in community without engaging in physical contact
A closing circle to integrate and reflect
You may leave feeling more connected, relaxed, playful, and at peace—and perhaps sleep better than you have in weeks.
What to Bring (all optional)
A pillow
A water bottle
Your favorite snuggly item for added comfort
What to Wear
Think comfort and softness: Cozy pajamas, cotton t-shirts, sweatpants, etc., are all welcome. Feel free to change clothes upon arrival.
Hygiene tip: Please come clean and minty fresh—no perfumes, colognes, body sprays, or cigarette smoke. Some participants have scent sensitivities. Thank you!
Guidelines for a Safe & Supportive Space
These agreements help us build a culture of care and respect. We’ll review them at the start of the workshop:
Touch is never required. You are welcome to participate without engaging in physical contact. Quiet resting areas and community presence are valid ways to be part of the experience.
You can say “no” or change your mind at any time.
Ask and wait: If you want to touch someone, ask and wait for a clear “yes” before proceeding.
Respect the boundaries of others enthusiastically.
Keep conversations PG-13
Maintain confidentiality (unless given explicit permission).
Please arrive sober and remain so during the event.
Health & Safety
If you’re feeling sick, “off,” or may have been exposed to COVID, RSV, or the flu, please stay home. Let’s keep our community safe and well. (For full Cityoga health policies, please check with the front desk)
Accessibility
Most of our activities take place on floor cushions. If getting up and down from the floor is a concern, please reach out ahead of time to discuss accommodations.
Reserve Your Spot
Spaces are limited, and pre-registration is encouraged! Come solo or bring a friend—you’ll be warmly welcomed either way. Doors open at 3:45 PM and will close promptly at 4:05 PM. Participants who need to leave early are welcome to begin departing at 6:00 PM. For those who can stay, we’ll close with a gentle integration circle and enjoy tea together in community reflection.