Sitting in a circle with our women’s group, one of the things I suggested we do was to give each other a massage. “I know nothing about massage, one woman shared, except to get them for myself.”
Being a beginner is full of surprises, I replied.” Let your partner know what kind of touch you like, slow, deep, pauses, light, no talking, sip of water, blanket, music, eye mask, object to hold, etc. Ask for what you want and ask for what you need from each other.
Is this feeling relaxing for you? Do you need Kleenex, a stopping time, do you want to chat? Our group of women has practiced saying what they feel and need, so here is another fun way to connect and learn about themselves.
I could hear giggles and tears. I could hear, oops, sorry. I saw people connecting. I offered to step in if they needed me. I said to the group, ‘just raise your hand and I will come stand by you, be with you and guide if you need me. ‘We had never done this in our women’s group before.
They shared how present they felt because they were using their hands, moving, and they wanted to give “good”, as one woman said.
One woman shared about her, as she called it, floppy tummy. I didn’t care this time that someone saw it nor asked first, which I loved, is it ok if I gently massage here?” Ask before assuming was one of the tips before massaging someone.
Another woman shared that she honestly didn’t want to do this but decided not to listen to that voice. She was glad she silenced that part of her. Fear was speaking, is what she learned.
Bottom line, every woman learned something about themselves and discovered learning inspired them. Mistakes didn’t take away from being inspired. Feeling uncomfortable didn’t either.
Trying something new, is an inspired life, don’t you think?
Happy inspirations to you,
Natalie
Natalie Caine M.A.
Life In Transition, What’s Next?
Empty Nest Support Services
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