Combating loneliness with cuddles

Cuddle gatherings are coming to Geelong as a way of addressing isolation and bringing more connection, care and community to the region.

On September 22, participants will have the opportunity to connect and experience physical touch in a safe and non-sexual way.

The session will be run by certified trauma therapist, somatic sexologist and experienced group facilitator Josslyn Owleye.

“All the touching is very platonic and there’s no pressure for people to do anything that they don’t feel comfortable with,” she said.

Starting with an opening circle, the group can make agreements around what it ok in the space before running through a series of activities, grounding people and allowing them to get into their body and practice embodied consent.

People will then be able to experience cuddles with those they feel comfortable with as the space opens up.

Ms Owleye believes it is important for people to learn about how to be safely in their body with other people and how to communicate their needs and wants, motivating her to hold the cuddling gathering.

She also recognises people are isolated and lonely at times and, after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, are rediscovering what it is like to connect with others.

“There’s a lot of loneliness in the world at the moment and I think people need to come together and connect and build community because the world is a very hard place to live on your own.

“Cuddle gatherings teach skills in communication, embodied consent, relaxation and somatic awareness.”

The cuddle gathering is open to singles and couples over the age of 18, with Ms Owleye hoping to get a range of ages and genders.

“I hope that it becomes a really inclusive space for all different sorts of people to attend, I think anyone who’s feeling like they’re disconnected or not having enough touch or affection in their life could benefit.”

Participants are encouraged to keep an open mind and wear comfortable clothes.

The cuddle gathering will be held at Good Folk Yoga in Myers Street from 11.15am until 2pm.

For tickets and more information, head to humanitix.com/au