During this COVID Pandemic we have been told that to love is to stay 6 feet away.  Boundaries for touch were put up with the best of intentions, but what have we lost in the process.  Touch is tangible love. When loved ones are kept at a distance we starve.

During my yoga teacher training we explored the dilemma of touch during yoga class. Within the confines of a yoga class – touch is controversial . Asheville Yoga Center is pro touch (with consent). The argument that hit home for me was that we have become so separated from each other in our daily life that we are touch starved. Our separation causes us to feel alone and can lead to feelings of loneliness.

The key to touch in a yoga environment is setting the correct intention. We were taught to not touch unless we were clear on our own intentions as well as having clear consent from the students.

This intentional touch flows over to daily interactions as well. Hugging within families and among friends are outward signs of care, concern and support.

Yes – it is good to show these intentions with our words and actions.