Touch: embodied connection and consent

This is a slow, mindful and nurturing introduction to touch and consent. Embodiment will be explained and practiced. There are some theoretical parts that will introduce you to affective touch, attunement, body zones, and how we can build safety to receive the healing benefits of touch. We will take time to explore, reflect and share together.

Things we practice:

• sensing into our bodily responses
• honouring ourselves and others
• using our voices in clear communication
• suggestions of how we can resource ourselves
• giving and receiving a no
• giving and receiving a yes
• how we can respond if we feel a maybe
• changing our minds
• making choices
• having fun and being silly (consent isn't all serious!)

Experiential exercises will be by yourself or in paired practice, with options to do them with or without touch. Some examples of connection invitations are hugs, back scratches, eye gazing, companioning. All touch is consensual and never a requirement to participate. Please note that learning about touch can be therapeutic, however this is not a group therapy event. You need to be able to engage in your own self-care and boundaries. All exercises are highly facilitated, and have containment.

The Touch event is not dissimilar to the first section of a cuddle event, which is often described as a mini consent workshop. You may choose to attend to learn about touch and connection, or as a first step introduction to cuddle events. Touch is not a cuddle event, and is a small group event.

All Life Spiral events welcome all genders and orientations - individuals, groups and couples - are all welcome.

Please note that ticket sales end on Friday 3 May, a week prior to the event. Last minute ticket sales are not available. Touch runs 1-2 times a year.

Testimonial from a participant: "Very safe and trustable. Enough time and discussion to ease in."

IN THE MEDIA

A curious and insightful conversation about cuddling work with Jacinta Parsons, ABC Radio. Running time: 10 minutes.

How Do You Earn a Crust?

GUIDELINES

These guidelines are like the “etiquette of cuddling" for cuddle events and we will also go through them for the Touch event.

• Agree to confidentiality. You will not discuss or share anyone else’s experience with others. You may share your own experience.
• This is a drug and alcohol free gathering. You need to arrive sober and maintain sobriety during the event. You may find yourself getting a natural high on oxytocin - often called the "hug hormone."
• There’s no touch required, and you can change your mind at any time.
• Respect the boundaries of others (ideally with enthusiasm).
• This is a non-sexual event so all behaviours and speech need to keep in alignment with that.
• Ask and Wait - if you want to touch someone, ask. Then wait for the answer.
• An understanding that if guidelines are not adhered to you may be asked to leave.

ABOUT YOUR FACILITATOR

Natasha Hund is compassionate and empathetic. As a certified cuddle professional, holistic counsellor and play specialist she has experience in touch to nurture, to help with co-regulation and to give comfort. She values the importance of touch and enjoys creating relaxed and nurturing spaces. Natasha enjoys giving and receiving hugs!

Natasha is a Certified Cuddle Event Leader, trained with Cuddle Sanctuary. She has also completed trainings with The School of Consent, Cuddle Therapy Australia and Cuddle Professionals International.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Frequently Asked Questions

Life Spirals

ARRIVE ON TIME

Once the opening circles begins, the doors close and no latecomers can enter. It is important for everyone to be present to get to know each other, and for the group agreements. This creates safety and comfort. If you are driving, allow plently of time to find a carpark.

GETTING UP AND DOWN

The event space is covered with cushions on the floor and there is also seating available.

AGE

For ages18+yrs. Although a PG rated event, it is for adults only.

TRANSPORT

Participants are encouraged to use public transport.

Public transport: tram 11 on Brunswick Street, or tram 96 on Nicholson Street, then a short walk.

By car: street parking near the venue and allow time to find a park. If you need to move your car during the event you can do this any time after we have completed the welcoming circle. Some good car parking options information will be in your ticketing information emailed to you.

Ticketing T&Cs

Bookings are essential, no door sales.

Cancellations up to 72hrs before the event start time will receive a full refund. There is a strict no transfer to future events policy. Events that have a closed door at start time do not offer refunds to latecomers that are locked out and unable to attend the event.

There is no allowing of the on-selling of tickets to others. If you are unable to attend and wish to pass your ticket on to a friend or pay it forward contact the organiser prior so we can track who is at the event, and their contact information.

Arrival

Attendees are expected to arrive when doors open allowing time to settle in, and have a timely start. For the events that contain group guidelines and agreements there is a shut door policy of the door closing when the welcoming circle starts, and latecomers will not be able to enter. Participants are expected to aim to arrive before the event starts and take responsibility for their travel time. The group will not wait for latecomers.

Accessibility

This is a ground floor venue with no steps. There is access to a toilet in the venue, and access to an accessible toilet. The space has mats and cushions on the floor, and chairs available. If a support worker with a companion card is accompanying you please let the organiser know re numbers (card required to be presented on entry).

Sensory Guide

Sound: music at a low/medium volume, some people are quiet at events and some are chatty. Smell: possible smells from tea and snacks, people are asked to come fragrance free but the organiser cannot guarantee this. Touch: plushies and cushions with a variety of textures. Reminder that touch with others is always optional and not a requirement to participate. Lighting: natural lighting from the windows, and low lighting only used if necessary. You are welcome to bring your own sensory aids.

All events have a space where you can take a break.

Health

All attendees are required to be in good health without displaying signs and symptoms of illness (no runny noses, coughs, shivers, fevers, sore throats, sneezing). Attendees are expected to maintain good personal hygiene.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Melbourne Shiatsu Fitzroy, 43 Rose Street, Melbourne, Australia