Restorative Contact

In this workshop, you will be guided through a mindful touch and movement practice. We will work slowly, with care and respect for our body as well as our partner's, as we learn to listen through the skin. The effects of touch are far-reaching, including emotional, physical, and cognitive wellbeing and improvement. Touch boosts dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin—the hormones associated with making people feel good—and lowers cortisol levels which are associated with stress.

This workshop is strictly non-sexual, and you should expect to be in close contact with another person for the majority of the time. Joining with a partner can be a great way to deepen a pre-existing relationship (romantic or platonic), providing a base level of trust, which may be a good fit for individuals for whom touch-based movement is novel. Individuals are also welcome to sign up solo, and will be partnered upon arrival with another student in the room. This is ideal for those who have a base level of comfort with interpersonal touch, particularly contact improvisation. The workshop is accessible to students who can be on the ground for extended periods of time; however, many adaptations can be offered, and the practice uses supportive props for comfort. No prior movement or meditation experience required. If you have any questions or concerns about whether this practice is right for you, please email Gabrielle at aW5mbyB8IHJlc3RvcmF0aXZlY29udGFjdCAhIGNvbQ==.