“Just reach out and touch somebody’s hand make this world a better place.” — Diana Ross
A good relationship with touch is vital to being comfortable in the world. Many studies show that it is the capacity to give and receive affection within a family that can influence the capacity for happiness in adults.
When a little human has an irritable sense of touch- or touch defensiveness- their parents learn quickly to give them space. This ultimately deprives them of soothing doses of oxytocin, the love hormone. If a human in your life avoids touch, cuddles, or hugs, show them safe comfortable ways to experience touch.
Skin brushing is a good gateway: find a soft brush that has a lovely texture like a grooming brush for a horse, a shoe shine brush, or a surgical scrub brush. Vigorously brush up and down legs, arms, and back. Do clockwise circles on the belly.
- In kids, do “hugs” with your hands up and down their arms and legs
- Do get messy, play in bowls of dried rice, mix cookie batter with hands
- Salt scrubs for adults
- Find bodywork you DO like
As a therapist, I can tell you touch is one of the most powerful tools I have to help people shift from fear and discomfort to peace and comfort. Our relationship with touch has been marred by fear and abuse of it. This has distanced us from each other in detrimental ways. We can change this.
Take a chance, learn to reach out and touch and make this world a better place!!!
