What is a snuggle party?
A Snuggle Party is a fun and connecting event where you can discover affectionate, non-sexual touch in a safe environment. It’s an exploratorium where you can receive affection, practice asking for what you want, hearing and saying No and honoring your choices. A Snuggle Party is a strictly non-sexual, gender-balanced event, and no prior experience is required. Through respect for personal boundaries the event is always very connecting and a wonderful place to make new friends.
What happens at a Snuggle Party?
After you arrive and change into your pajamas or sweats, there will be an opening circle where you will have the opportunity to introduce yourself and ask for something you wish to either give or receive, or both.The facilitators will review the Snuggle Party Rules with the group and each participant will agree to honor them. They will then guide you through some simple exercises giving everyone the opportunity to practice Snuggle party communication skills and boundary setting in a light and comfortable way.
Then we begin the snuggle time, usually lasting 2-3 hours. During this time people do a variety of things like, chat, spoon one on one or in groups (which we refer to as a puppy piles). Many enjoy good conversation over food that is provided, while others might meditate together or exchange scalp or foot massage.
We will end by gathering for a closing circle. I always enjoy seeing the transformation in the Snugglers faces at the end of the event. They all look so happy, relaxed and connected.
What are the benefits of snuggling?
Humans thrive on physical contact, and snuggling is a basic need. Snuggling lowers stress, reduces social anxiety, and creates a deep feeling of peace and well-being.
Times have changed. Years ago it was unheard of to snuggle with anyone other than your lover or spouse. What happens for the millions of people who are single? Are they denied of these benefits of nurturing touch? As well as feeling great, snuggling also has some great health benefits. Touch releases a hormone called Oxytocin, which not only relaxes the body, but assists in calming anxiety and stress. Snuggling also boosts your immune system and lowers your risk for heart disease. Studies have shown that the lack of human touch is an enormous factor in causing depression. If you suffer from depression, and your depression is due to feeling isolated and lacking connection, snuggling can help.
What if I don’t want to snuggle with anybody at the Snuggle Party?
You don’t have to snuggle with anyone at the Snuggle Party. You are at choice 100% of the time. There’s plenty of food, non-alcoholic drink and good conversations to be had. I have often enjoyed sitting by myself in the Snuggle space and feeling the effects of the relaxed environment simply by being in the same room.
What should I wear?
The ideal clothing is something comfortable, like sweats or pajamas. Space is available to change if needed. We encourage you to bring your favorite pillow or blanket.
Who comes to Snuggle Parties?
Singles –The majority of people who attend a Snuggle Party are single. Singles often enjoy our Snuggle Parties since it is a safe place for them to get their touch needs met.
Couples- Couples also enjoy our Snuggle Parties. They often appreciate the exercises we do as a reminder of how to better take care of themselves in the love relationship and to honor their Yes’ and No‘s.
Women – Some women have expressed that they have some fear arise before attending a Snuggle Party. The fear is usually around intimacy and whether or not they will want to connect with the men there. But, when they choose to attend, they find the event to be a powerful learning experience and a healthy place to practice honoring their choices and boundaries.
Men – Men and women are more alike than we realize. Men desire affection and connection in the same way as women. It’s not only about sex for them, as some women may think.
The age range is from the 20’s to 70’s, although the majority of people are in their 40’s-60’s.
If you’re still on the fence, check out this testimonial: