Touch - The Eternal Connection

Isn't our sense of touch a marvelous thing?  Totally reciprocal, it is impossible to reach out and connect with someone without ourselves receiving touch in return.  That's why there is so much satisfaction in caressing a baby's cheek, embracing a loved one, or stroking a favourite pet.  We make a special connection through touch: our positive feelings in giving and the receiver's positive feelings at the pleasure of the gift.

For those in chronic care, touch is vital to their well-being.  This was made dramatically real to me long before my training.  We arranged for my mother, a long-term Alzheimer patient, to receive a massage.  In her frail physical state it was little more than a gentle stroking of her hands, shoulders, neck and face with lavender-scented oil. My mother, who had not said anything recognizable in years, managed to whisper "thank you" to the practitioner.

Everyone has intuitive skill in being able to offer comfort through touch.  With your family, valuing this natural gift is important.  If visiting an elderly relative in care is usually an awkward, self-conscious penance, make it meaningful to both of you.  Bring along a good quality oil or lotion, with a mild, natural scent such as lavender, chamomile or sandalwood.  No need for an elaborate massage. Cleaning with a warm damp cloth and then light strokes on exposed areas such as hands, arms, feet, legs, neck and face can make a noticeable difference. Finish by gently placing your hands on the person's shoulders. Take a few slow deep breaths and encourage your relative to do the same.

Fortunately, the art of touch is now enjoying a well-deserved popularity. The laying on of hands goes far back beyond The Bible. Throughout the centuries practitioners have been revered or reviled, depending on the cultural climate.

Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, Healing Touch, and Esoteric Touch are just a few of the current modalities.  These practices are all grounded in spiritual centering. Some of these work on the electrical energy which surrounds the body.  Others focus on the connection with the universal life force.  The touch is always gentle and non-invasive.  It may not even require an actual physical connection.  Training involves several levels of proficiency, usually gained at a one-day or weekend session. Hospitals and care facilities are recognizing the proven value of touch therapies and welcoming its presence.

So reach out and touch someone you love.

Gertrude King is an Aromatherapist and Reflexologist in private practice in south western Ontario.