Feelosophy: 5 Points of Positive Self Touch by Ash Belluz
Touch is a critical part of human nature. Check out these five points of positive self touch by Ash Belluz to help you feel more connected to yourself today.
1. Use touch to slow down.
So often we slap on our moisturizer and quickly lather on soap, however could you create a new experience in YOUR body by slowing the process down? Try using different fingers when applying face cream (pinky and ring finger instead of index and middle) and use different pressure (more likely than not, apply less pressure).
2. Try a self hold.
Place one hand under your armpit (or on your opposite scapula) and the other along the side/back of your neck, think of it like you’re giving yourself a bear hug. Holding here for at least 30 seconds, allowing yourself to feel held.
3. Self massage not-so-obvious areas.
Try massaging your forearms (especially if you’ve spent a lot of time on your computer or the last 2 hours scrolling TikTok). Or try massaging the back of your calves. There’s so many juicy spots in forearms and calves that get passed over in a traditional massage.
4. Listen to yourself.
Use the above techniques to listen to what your body enjoys. Quieting the mind helps you get clear with what is a ‘yes’ and a ’no’ in your body. This way you can be clear in expressing what your needs are (whether that be with an RMT, a partner or a friend).
5. Journaling prompts on touch:
What is my current relationship to touch?
What type of touch do I enjoy?
Who do I enjoy touch from and why?
What is my body telling me right now?