Platonic Touch: Unlocking the Power of Non-Sexual Affection Class
Dec 9th 8:15-9:15pm ∙ Columbus, OH
Unlock the Power of Non-Sexual Touch!
To ease the transition into our first LGBTQIA+ event, we’ll be hosting a special one-hour class dedicated to exploring the enriching world of non-sexual touch, from hugs to cuddles to everything in between. This unique class is your gateway to understanding and practicing the meaningful art of platonic touch, setting the perfect tone for the evening ahead.
This event is included in your Inclusive Indulgence ticket — you must purchase a ticket to this event in order to attend this class. 🙂
Seamless Transition to Inclusive Indulgence:
Your ticket to Inclusive Indulgence grants you free access to this enlightening class. It’s an opportunity to enrich your experience of the night, helping you forge deeper, more meaningful connections during the party. Please make sure you’ve purchased a ticket to Inclusive Indulgence to attend this class!
Why Attend?
This is more than just a fluffy cuddle class, it’s a journey into the heart of human connection and insight into why we need to give and receive. You’ll leave with a renewed appreciation for the power of touch and ready to fully immerse yourself in the inclusive, celebratory atmosphere of Inclusive Indulgence. Maybe you’ll take a spin in the pillow pool with a new friend!
CLASS OVERVIEW
Science of Touch:Â Most Americans are scientifically touch-starved, a result of our cultural conditioning. But humans are programmed to both give and receive this type of affection, and our bodies and brains are healthier for it. You’ll learn about oxytocin, the body’s bonding chemical, ways to check in with your own needs, and more.
Interactive Exercises: Engage in hands-on exercises designed to teach the nuances of non-romantic, caring touch in the form of hugs, massages, cuddles, and more. These activities are crafted to enhance your understanding and comfort with platonic affection, your body awareness, and communication practices with others. Learn about how consent plays a pivotal role in giving and receiving in subtle ways.Â
Friendly Icebreakers:Â Break the ice and build connections with fellow attendees through guided, heartwarming icebreakers. Perfect for making new friends right before the main event! Did you know that oxytocin is a necessary component for making a new friend? We’ll show you how to summon it.
Expert Guidance:Â Led by Alexandra Snow, this class offers a safe and supportive space to learn and practice with zero emphasis on sexuality. Whether you’re a seasoned community member or new to the concept, you’ll find valuable insights and skills to take away. This class has historically been incredibly therapeutic for attendees and combines both insights into physiology, cultural stereotypes, cultural obligations, and techniques for overcoming them.
ticket Details:
DRESS CODE
When it comes to attire, anything goes at Wicked Eden, we want you to feel comfortable and in the mood to have an adventure! Wicked Eden is a place where you can wear as much or as little as you desire. We want you to always feel comfortable expressing yourself in whatever ways you desire. We encourage you to go outside your comfort zone with festive, outrageous, or amazing clothing that you never get a chance to wear anywhere else.Â
VOLUNTEERS
We LOVE volunteers! Join our team of community volunteers, and you will find new friends, a support system and a tight knit center of empowerment. Once you have obtained membership as above, please check out the volunteering section of The Autonomy Project website.
By volunteering with us you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives, but you will also get perks such as discounted or free access to our events and classes, and most importantly, collaborative input in what we do here. Your ideas are important to us, and as a volunteer, we want you to feel like you’re part of our community: one that celebrates who you are and supports your journey.
HIGH POTENTIAL, NO PRESSURES
Our community thrives in a space where countless delightful interactions could happen, but none are obligated to occur. Think of it as “high possibility, low expectations.” Outside of our general requirements of respect, you are under no obligation to interact with anyone in any particular way. This makes our space ideal for new faces and seasoned community members alike.
HIGH POTENTIAL, NO PRESSURES
Our events aren’t the product of one person hosting a party for pay; they’re the result of a community coming together and creating something new. Everyone who attends is expected to co-create: money, time, energy, enthusiasm, work, intention, example, concern and/or awareness. Have ideas, games, art, music to share? Want to bring them to life with us?
A FOUNDATION OF TRUST
Our gatherings are magical because of trust. We fiercely protect each member’s privacy, encourage honest risk communication, and take diligent care of our shared environments. It’s our collective respect and integrity that fortify this safe space.
CLEAR AND PRESENT CONSENT
Upholding consent goes beyond preventing harm; it’s about affirming everyone’s freedom to fully and joyfully agree to their interactions. It’s through this affirmation that our spaces thrive with genuine, unreserved participation.
INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY
We’re committed to inclusivity. Our community is a tapestry of individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and social backgrounds, including all gender identities and expressions. We encourage everyone to engage with empathy and curiosity, always asking rather than assuming someone’s identity or preferences.
Our space is and always will be wheelchair accessible, with multiple spaces for varying sensory needs.
PLEASE NOTE
No refunds will be given on ticket purchases. Address is provided to confirmed ticket holders after purchase. Wicked Eden is located on the south side of Columbus, approximately 10 minutes from downtown, and is one block away from a COTA bus stop.
ABOUT US
Wicked Eden is operated by The Autonomy Project, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to education, community building, and empowerment for individuals within the alternative sexuality community, sex work industry, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Our mission is to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can freely express their sexuality and gender identity without fear of discrimination, judgment, or violence.