Healing is an intensely personal journey, a path often marked by trials, errors, and profound discoveries. In a world where traditional medical approaches dominate the discourse on health and recovery, alternative healing practices invite us to rethink what it means to truly heal and find peace within our bodies. During a recent episode of my podcast, I had the pleasure of exploring such unconventional pathways with Sara Jane Wellock, a pioneer in the practice of healing through touch and caressing. Over the last few years I have found that touching my skin, either through compassion or arousal has had a giant impact on my healing journey, and I can feel the difference in my growth when I do not activate my body through touch.

Sara Jane, who leads Caress events, brings a unique perspective to healing—one that celebrates the power of touch. In our conversation, she discussed the transformative potential of intimate, mindful touch, not just as a method for physical relief but as a gateway to emotional and spiritual liberation. This approach isn’t about prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s about discovering what resonates with each individual. It prompts the question: Could this be how I’ve always healed but never recognized it?

In the hustle of modern life, our connection to physical sensations can be muted by the noise of daily routines. Sara Jane’s insights offer a reminder of the basic human need for touch—a language of comfort that predates modern medicine. Through her Caress practice, she advocates not just for physical touch but for a deeper communion with one’s own body, listening to its whispers and screams alike.

As Sara Jane shared her journey and the modalities she uses, it became clear that healing is less about the elimination of symptoms and more about engaging in a dialogue with oneself. This perspective aligns with the essence of alternative healing practices, which often challenge us to reframe our relationships with our bodies. They push us to let go of shame, to embrace our vulnerabilities, and to celebrate our strengths.

The narrative of healing that Sara Jane presents is one of empowerment and gentle strength. It underscores the importance of being open to new healing modalities, especially those that might initially seem foreign or intimidating. By stepping outside our comfort zones, we allow ourselves the possibility of finding unexpected sources of joy and healing.

What does this mean for you? It means giving yourself permission to explore healing in whatever form it might take. It means recognizing that healing can be messy, nonlinear, and beautifully complex. It might be found in a laughter-filled conversation with a friend, the silent meditation in a bustling park, or a purposeful touch from a skilled practitioner (be it you or someone else).

If this discussion intrigues you, I invite you to watch the full interview with Sara on my YouTube channel. Dive deeper into the conversation and perhaps discover a new layer of understanding about your own healing practices.

As we continue to navigate our own paths, let us remain open to the myriad ways healing can manifest. It’s about embracing the journey, with all its imperfections and surprises, and recognizing the profound impact of simply being present in our bodies.

Remember, healing is not a destination but a journey, one that requires patience, curiosity, and an open heart. Let’s embark on this journey together, learning and growing with each step we take.

An invitation to join a profound change that can come from the consecutive-day Caress practice. I experience a general sense of wellbeing, communion, improved interactions with others (romantically, professionally, socially), as well as ease in my body. We are looking at May (National Masturbation Month) for a daily practice (Monday through Friday) for $575 USD total. 

By Minessa

With over 20 years of experience, Minessa Konecky has worked with small startups and hospital systems and academic centers in managing a variety of Federal, private and industry awards. They are comfortable with the entire life cycle of awards and have worked with investigators to secure and extend their research funding. They see themselves as the facilitators of the research business enterprise, and approach all solutions from that lens. Their passion is helping people find joy and fulfillment in their work using a human-centric approach to efficiency and optimization. They host of the Stop Shoulding All Over Yourself Podcast, and hold the position of Research Administration Process Improvement and Training Director at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Minessa takes great pride in their desi heritage and being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. They live in their seaside cottage on unceded and occupied lands of the Wampanoag and Pokanoket people in Plymouth, MA with 3 dogs and their partner, Alex.