At the Edge

Reaching an edge can be a thrilling experience. It can open us to life, give birth to insights and create a special connection with others. There is often a lot of potential precisely there – where something is unsettling me and my habits, but not in a way that overwhelms me. However, going beyond or over an edge (= boundary) is very close to reaching one, and that is already dangerous. It can hurt quite a bit, close us to each other, make us numb and block our exchange with the external world.

And so (for good reasons), many of us become very good at avoiding edges altogether. We learn to retreat when we notice a hint of destabilization. We apologize, look away, rush to repair, or move away from the tension. This is indeed often the safest option, and often also the most functional one. Being constantly on the edge is exhausting, and it is very difficult to achieve anything concrete from within that liminal space.

This workshop is an invitation to practice and explore the opposite: to step into the somewhat forbidden territory where we intentionally bring one another close to an edge, and explore the what lies there. All of this is, of course, strictly consensual, and the workshop will move at a very slow and gentle pace.

Through games and embodied exercises, we will explore questions such as: What is an edge, actually? How do we recognize it? How can we notice when approaching an edge is expanding us, and when it is starting to become too much — before overwhelm sets in? And what helps us reconnect if we do become overwhelmed or close down?

What to expect
• We will begin with a thorough solo warm-up to connect to our bodies, become more sensitive to boundaries, and attune to our sense of inner authority. From there, we will gradually move into various consent games and relational explorations.
• We will work with touch, though alternatives will always be available.
• Throughout the workshop, we will also take time to verbally process and reflect on our experiences.
• While the topic touches something somewhat transgressive, there is a strong emphasis on care, gentleness, and mutual attention. It is an adventure we embark on together.

Noam Raz Noam Raz is a workshop facilitator, Feldenkrais practitioner and Family Constellation guide. He has trained and played with a variety of physical practices and approaches – Dance, Taiji, Meditation, Somatics, Kink, Voicework and Parkour. Coming originally from the realm of Philosophy (Wittgenstein!) and Linguistics, attention to language and its workings is somehow always in the background. www.noamra.com

What is Sensual Touch Lab Series for GBTQ+ Men*?
nsual Touch Lab Series for GBTQ+ Men* is a monthly workshop where we aim to create a space for sensual closeness and playful encounters.
Embodied, somatic experiences that appreciate our full-bodied nature. Using sensuality as an approach to explore new ways of dealing with our own fears or patterns related to nudity, intimacy, and touch. We invite you to explore, communicate, and possibly expand your personal boundaries within a framework of mutual respect and consent. This opens up the opportunity to experience the power of touch, sensation, and non-verbal interpersonal connection.
Each event will be a guided process, which will have a special touch depending on the theme and background of the facilitator*, whether it be bodywork and touch, somatics and intimacy, or something else. These short workshops may include nudity, partner exercises or close physical interactions.

Benefits:
• Creates meaningful connections within the GBTQ+ community through collective experiences
• Combats feelings of isolation and loneliness
• Promotes self-love and acceptance of one’s body and identity
• Provides a safe, judgement-free space to explore personal boundaries• Contributes to overall well-being and supports the ability to build lasting relationships
• an serve as a healthy coping mechanism and reduce the risk of substance abuse

General Information
• This format is for all queer men* / queer masculinities interested in experiencing touch in a safe(r) setting.
• Please pay attention to personal hygiene.
• Bring a sheet and towel to cover cushions, mats, or massage tables.
• This event will be in German and/or English depending on participant needs.
• 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 available