As the stresses and strains of the modern lifestyle take their toll, we become more and more aware of the healing power of human touch. Human beings love to be touched. We crave – relish it! Sadly the art of touching is used less frequently these days, and it is often associated with negative behaviour and sexual issues or seen as a true indulgence that only few can afford. It doesn’t have to mean any of these things. Touch is both subtle and powerful if treated with respect.
Even though many complimentary therapies out there include the power of touch, you may not always have the time or money to visit one. While many advocates of these therapies feel they are a huge investment in your health and insist you make the time and find the money, it may not always be possible. Find a friend, partner or family member who is keen to give and receive hands-on treatment. Many secondary schools or universities also offer community education classes for things like massage, aromatherapy and shiatsu.
When you place your hands onto someone you love or care abut, an energy transformation takes place between the two of you. It is a unique way of communicating without words. By touching and hugging, we are letting those around us know that we like them, or that we feel for them, or that we believe in their worth.
The daily body boost we all perform is a great way to kick-start your day. It takes only a few minutes to give yourself a top-to-toe treatment. We also use it as a time to acknowledge how great our bodies are – to give thanks for all the body endures and to honour it for being so available and responsive to our demands.
Our children also love to be touched. Often after a bath they will ask for a massage from mummy. What a gift! This truly helps to form deep bonds and to establish a warm, positive parent-child relationship. As women we are probably more likely to use our hands and touch another human being, but that doesn’t mean men don’t like it, or want to do it! Husbands or partners also love to be touched and there is nothing nicer than the hands of your partner to say I love you, I am here for you.
When a girlfriend or family member visits, it is so lovely to be able to share a hand massage or neck and shoulder rub. It makes those ‘girl talk’ times even more of a bonding session.
I truly believe the power of touch is underestimated, especially when we incorporate essential oils and the sense of smell as well. In every workshop we run we encourage a hands-on component. There is a real sense of connecting when we do a neck and shoulder massage on each other. Touch is a very powerful form of communication.
If you are unable to get to a therapist who incorporates hands-on treatments regularly, then we recommend – insist – you start with the daily body boost on yourself. Check out our blog on how to do the Daily Body Boost here! Offer a friend, flatmate, partner or child a massage. You do not have to be a qualified practitioner to know how to care for someone. Trust your instincts and follow the contours of the body, apply pressure and ask for feedback. Try not to tickle or go too deep, especially over bony prominences. Ask to swap turns. Remember it is just as important to receive as it is to give.
Above all, a good massage is one in which the recipient feels totally nurtured and cared for. That goes for the one you give to yourself as well!