Description
Cuddling as Collective Care - all genders
Cuddling as Collective Care - all genders with Stijn
Cuddle Puddles are structured, guided spaces where people can experience the benefits of non-sexual touch — such as reduced stress, nervous system regulation, and a deeper sense of belonging. Touch, when consensual and caring, can support emotional resilience and mental health.
This Cuddle Puddle is open to all genders within the LGBTQIA+ community, creating a space where diverse identities can meet beyond gendered expectations. A non-gender-restricted setting allows for broader empathy, mutual understanding, and connection, while honoring individual boundaries, choice, and safety at all times.
Stijn (he/him) is an educator, facilitator, and massage therapist with a deep passion for the intersection of touch, consent, and intimacy. With a professional background in breathwork and various massage modalities, he enjoys creating spaces for deep connection and embodied exploration.
More about his work: @natma.studio
What is Regenerative Touch?
Regenerative Touch is a monthly workshop where together we create conditions that help us to slow down, to drop into our bodies and to explore the profound impact of mindful, restorative touch in a supportive and nurturing environment. Touch, often overlooked in daily life, is a basic human need.
In these workshops, we create a space solely for its regenerative, down-regulating and connecting capabilities, free from any romantic or sexual connotations.
Touch communicates directly, reaching places words cannot.
Did you ever experience the calming effect of a warm embrace or a comforting hand on your shoulder? Even a brief 15-minute hand-holding session can lead to a significant decrease in heart rate, reduction in blood pressure, signalling a strong relaxation response. A simple 20-second hug can lead to higher levels of oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and trust.
Every Month, one of our rotating and trauma-sensitive facilitators will frame the evening around themes like presence, nervous system regulation, emotional safety and focus on hands-on experiences rather than too many words or techniques. No bodywork experience necessary – just bring your curiosity.
Benefits
– Experience reduced anxiety, depression, and increased emotional resilience through calming, intentional touch.
– Cultivate mindful presence and deeper connections with yourself and others.
– Support trauma healing and emotional release in a safe, nurturing environment.
– Enhance mood and immune function by reducing stress and releasing endorphins.
– Foster a sense of community and belonging through shared, non-verbal experiences.
– Encourage deeper self-compassion and acceptance through gentle, supportive contact.
General Information
• This format is for all queer people (LGBTQIA+) interested in experiencing touch in a safe(r) setting. (See FAQ)
• This is a clothes-on format.
• Bring a sheet and towel to cover cushions, mats, or massage tables.
• This event will be in English
• This event is also available at a reduced member price – but not part of the three-free-monthly-events benefit.
• Concession tickets upon written request to events@wearevillage.org
