Hands to Heart

With summer fading and autumn arriving, it is time to cherish the space at the center of our being: the heart. The heart is not only our physical center but also an energetic one: a place of love, connection, and life.

In this workshop, we explore the regenerative power of touch through breathwork, self-connection, and partner practices that invite us to meet heart-to-heart. It is a gentle invitation to slow down, reconnect, and discover the heart as a source of balance, intimacy, and presence.

All bodies and genders welcome. No experience needed.

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.

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 two-free-monthly-events benefit.
• Concession tickets upon written request to events@wearevillage.org