I once had a delightful Sheltie named Prince Purley. Shelties, if you don’t know, resemble small Collies and have stunningly lush coats. Purley was no exception – his coat seemed to shimmer in the wind. Initially, Purley was a little distant, preferring his company to ours.
But Purley did have a fondness for snacks. Tempting him with a tasty morsel would bring him closer, and gradually we could incorporate a pet or two while he relished his treat. Over time, he warmed to us, realizing that being petted felt nice.
Some people remind me of Purley. Did they need to receive a more positive touch growing up, or have past experiences made them wary?
I notice this similarity in some women I meet. If their past encounters have caused discomfort, or if they’ve felt shame about their bodies, they may find close encounters less than joyful.
I advocate for practices that nourish the mind and body, such as meditative massages, expressing affection, and nurturing meaningful relationships. It’s all about honoring our bodies and relishing the incredible experiences they offer us.
I found an intriguing study of 441 women examining their reactions to various forms of touch across their bodies. Surprisingly, the responses varied widely across different areas.
Some women might be experiencing a partial range of pleasant sensations due to limited touch experiences. Learning to appreciate and enjoy touch can be a transformative journey like any skill.
Responses like “It hurts,” “I’m embarrassed,” or “It’s overly sensitive” highlighted areas where touch could be approached differently, with more care and respect.
This aligns with the concept of Sensory Activation I’ve been discussing. This idea suggests that past experiences lead to discomfort or numbness in certain areas that can be replaced with joy through mindful touch.
Additionally, Sensory Cross-Training, an idea from my mentor, Sheri Winston, expands your capacity for joy by incorporating new sensory experiences.
What I understood from the study is not about specific preferences but the potential to transform overlooked or misunderstood areas into sources of joy and wellness with a loving, respectful approach.
Do the same in your relationships.
I promise you can make it blossom like never before.
