"Of all the gifts we can give to people, the gift of our touch is one of the most priceless. Through our hands we convey a kind of radiance. A warmth seeps out from our inner fire, a wrap for someone's chill, a light for another's dark."

— Jan Phillips in Divining the Body

Our touch connects us directly to each other and the Earth. As the carpenter grips a hammer, he can build another's dream home. Likewise, the baker kneads dough, rolls it out with a pin, and cuts it in preparation for a memorable Sunday pasta dinner. This incredible sense allows us to make this world a better place to live in infinite ways. Let's talk basics before exploring different ways how touch is good for the soul.

Touch begins with a network of nerve endings in the skin known as the somatosensory system. There are receptor-specific nerves for cold, hot, pressure, pain, vibration, tickle, etc. (2023). Like the other senses, the brain catalogs association through experience and learning. Where there is skin, there is sensation. It can be soothing and triggering depending on whether or not a person has boundary issues (think autism, trauma, or sensory-deprived individuals who are uncomfortable with touch). It is always best to ask permission before entering another's personal space. Given the basics, how can we access contact in a healing and mindful way?

Massage

Part of my self-care regimen is to receive a monthly massage, mainly deep tissue (which, I won't lie- can be tense) and Swedish (which calms the activated muscle tissue). I use deep breathwork to surrender to this experience. At the end of a 90-minute session, I feel balanced and whole. I have received massages since 2006, which helped reduce the wear and tear on my body during the latter part of my career as a firefighter.

If this modality interests you, use due diligence and research the different massage styles. An essential part of the healing process is to work with a licensed therapist who resonates - if you do not feel the connection, find someone else.

Chiropractic Care 

"The doctor of the future will give no medication, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, diet and in the cause and prevention of disease." - Thomas Edison (attribute).

Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine focusing on disorders of the musculoskeletal system - specifically, the spine. A common presenting issue is a subluxation (a misalignment of the vertebrae) that places pressure on the nerve endings that branch from the spinal cord. The practitioner works to correct this condition through an adjustment (spinal manipulation). Many chiropractors receive orthopedic physician referrals and often work with the doctor as part of a patient's treatment and wellness plan. This example is just part of a chiropractor's scope of practice. Again, research and consult your primary care provider before beginning any alternative treatment protocol. You may have a pre-existing medical condition that may prevent you from engaging the services of a chiropractor.

Earthing

The website VeryWellmind defines earthing (grounding) as connecting directly to the Earth. This modality involves walking barefoot outside or using an indoor grounding system. It is about connecting the body to the electrical currents of the Earth as a way to reduce stress, inflammation, and pain (2023). Take your shoes and socks off and walk barefoot on the grass or beach. Ensure that the surface you walk on is free of items that can injure your feet. When in doubt, wear flip-flops or earthing (minimalist) shoes.

Soak

Draw a tepid water bath (60 -100 degrees), add Himalayan sea or Epsom salt, and soak for 15-20 minutes. If tolerable, add 5-10 drops of lavender Lavendula angustifolia essential oil to enhance the experience. The warm water soak will ease sore muscles and open the skin's pores to release toxins from the body. Inhale peace and balance, and exhale that which no longer serves you.

Hug

As long as individuals have no personal boundary issues, the hug is one of the most cost-effective and healing touch modalities. It is free and does wonders for the human experience. Alternatively, make a connection with your pet or a therapy animal.

The sense of touch can be (for lack of a better term) a touchy subject. Always do or engage in what is comfortable for you. Remember to ask or receive permission before contacting another person or their animal companion. Until next time -

Namaste,

Tim

References

Sense of Touch. Retrieved on 3/8/2023 from https://learning-center.homesciencetools.com/article/skin-touch/.

What is Earthing? Retrieved on 3/8/2023 from https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-earthing-5220089