Hugs are awesome.
...science says so!
Vancouver Island, BC
Not everyone has access to, or is comfortable requesting caring contact (such as a hug, holding of hands or a shoulder to lay one's head) from those in their lives.
Sharing -giving and/or receiving- of safe platonic touch is a basic need of most humans and science largely talks of its benefits (learn more below ☺︎) towards health and wellness.
Cuddle/hug therapy is a wellness-based modality centered around providing access to therapeutic, nurturing touch within a platonic and consensual container.
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info@mimihugs.ca
Therapeutic Nurturing Touch & Connection
Possible benefits
- Releasing of endorphins has the capacity to act as natural painkillers, boost mood and generate a sense of calm.
- Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system can potentially aide in reducing blood pressure and heart rate.
- Its connection to stress-reducing properties has in turn been found to support immune function.
- Emitting of oxytocin and dopamine can contribute to increased wellness through evoking feelings/sensations such as: empathy, happiness, emotional security and belonging.
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Definition & Consent
Providing access to therapeutic, nurturing, touch -sometimes with professional cuddle/hug therapy as a sub-category- is offered as a wellness-based modality. It is client-led and always optional to participate; physical contact is never mandatory (it is strictly platonic/non-sexual). This service may include caring gestures such as: a hug, holding of hands, brief massaging of a tense back/sore feet*, or a shoulder to lay one’s tired head - if requested by the client and with both participants continued consent.
An Agreements/Code of Conduct document is reviewed together to further clarify the importance of maintaining a safe and comfortable experience for everyone.
*Certified in Massage Therapy; completed a 3-year Diploma in Canada.
Emotional & Somatic component
An appointment is book-ended with a check-in & body awareness/somatic exercise, and honest communication about comfort levels/boundaries is maintained throughout. Besides those previously mentioned above, people often experience additional benefits such as developing stronger self/body-awareness, emotional intelligence and communication skills. Providing an empathetic, non-judgmental space to be listened to and receive moral support is frequently a large component -sometimes even a majority- of an appointment*. Some people find watching a movie or listening to music together during an appointment (and not necessarily always talking a lot) to be relaxing. Together we discuss what your intention/wellness goal(s) is for the appointment, and help determine what would feel most supportive to you.
*Mimi Hugs/Michele is not a psychologist but is happy to lend a compassionate ear to any “venting sessions” you may need.
Rates
Appointments are out-call only:
Campbell River, Courtenay, Comox Valley+, Vancouver Island BC
(travel fee may apply to some locations)
90min. | $250*
60min. | $200
*First-time appointments must be 90min. as extra time is needed for the intake forms.
- Payment methods accepted: cash (no change on hand), e-transfer and debit/credit card.
- Late cancellation fee under 24-hours notice: 50% of appointment cost.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
info@mimihugs.ca
Background
Mimi Hugs/Michele has a history of working (past & current) in a health-care/manual therapy-related field for over 7 years, supporting people of all ages with a wide variety of conditions. She has also completed training and volunteered for the Crisis Intervention & Suicide Prevention Centre of BC.
She enjoys living on Vancouver Island, BC near her family, exploring the beautiful surrounding nature and continuing to learn about the wide world of health, wellness and healing modalities that exist.