The Cuddle Sanctuary
As we navigate our own personal journey, it can often be intimidating for many Trans & GNC individuals to find and/or feel worthy of human contact. The Cuddle Sanctuary is a guided social experience where you affirm healthy boundaries and cultivate that necessary tender human touch.
This fun and interactive workshop includes a welcome circle, easy relaxation activities and communication exercises designed to empower and bring a sense of calm and wellness to our often hectic lives. The workshop culminates with a voluntary “Cuddle Lab”. Touch is ALWAYS consensual and NEVER a requirement to participate. All cuddling and touching is purely non-sexual and presented for therapeutic purposes only.
By the end of this workshop, you may experience an increased sense of well-being and belonging, a boost in compassion and playfulness, a decreased blood pressure and a better night’s sleep. Healthy, human touch also improves your immune system! The Cuddle Sanctuary is a great place to meet new friends, connect with partners and pals in a soulful new way and be part of a warm and huggable tribe; all in a safe and nonjudgmental space.
REQUIREMENTS:
What to Wear
Dress in clothes that are conducive to snuggling. Soft, cozy pajamas, cotton t-shirts, sweatpants, leggings are all welcome. Tank tops and shorts are a-okay for the warmer weather. Feel free to change clothes when you arrive. Hygiene is important at cuddles – be squeaky clean and minty fresh – it’s easier to get close that way! (Note: come free of perfumes, colognes and cigarette smoke. Some have sensitive noses – thanks!)
Intoxicants
Please arrive and remain sober throughout the event. You may find yourself getting a natural high on oxytocin – often called the “hug hormone.”
Getting Up and Down:
The class space will be covered with cushions on the floor and most of our exercises are on those cushions. If you are concerned about your ability to get up and down from the floor to a standing position, please contact us to discuss accommodation.
Guidelines
– There’s no touch ever required.
– You can change your mind at any time.
– Respect the boundaries of others.
– Touch Stays Rated G (and stay dressed).
– Ask and Wait: If you want to touch someone, ask. Then wait for their answer.
– Respect the confidentiality of others.
INSTRUCTOR
Fei Wyatt first discovered cuddling as part of a wellness practice and when she did, it felt like she was coming home. She is now a leading expert in the field of professional cuddling and works to spread compassion and unconditional love through therapeutic touch.
As Chief People Officer at Cuddle Sanctuary, Fei empowers others through spaces that invite consent, embodiment, vulnerability, connection and exploration. Her work has been featured on 60-second Docs, Good Day LA, KCET, Fusion TV, Comedy Central, Rolling Stone and Buzzfeed.