how do you deal with craving touch?

[fizzysci]

I've been single for 10 years and have had no hugs in 10 years. How do you deal with craving a touch. My boss put her hand on my shoulder last week as she walked past my desk and it was wonderful, i miss touch so much
I hate massage though so thats not an answer and FizzyCat isn't the cuddly sort.

How about a salsa class?
What do you hate about massages? Maybe you can find one you like?
Could you join any new classes or a book club to find some deep friendships that may enrich your life with hugs?
How about getting manicure or pedicure?

Touch is so enriching I hope you find a way to have hugs

Any volunteering in an animal shelter?

Would fizzycat tolerate a dog?

FizzyCat doesn't much tolerate humans let alone a dog - she rules the roost. I don't like being touched by strangers which makes it awkward.

Some of the Thai massages happen fullyndressed? Maybe try one of those?

Yoga! All about using your body in a positive way. Breathing stretching etc all self love ❤️

I second yoga particularly the 'bound' poses
Also being in the water, swimming or the bath, and intense physical exercise

A weighted blanket can be really comforting

What does your circle of connections look like aside from being single? Family, friends, the dreaded MN hobbies?

What opportunities do you get on a day to day basis interact with others on either a superficial or a more personal level? You say that you crave touch, is that in both directions? Does that start with an emotional connection first for you or would being able to sit and stroke a willing pet fulfil that need (not being facetious).

Do you have friends you can ask for a hug?

Maybe volunteer in an old folks home? As you get to know them you can hold their hands and even give a hug when appropriate. Something they would also appreciate.

Other than that do you want a relationship and if so what is holding you back?

Could you contact your local care home? Spend some time with with some residents, chat and get to know them and give them some time and attention. Many residents are so lonely and also crave touch.
You may end up making some really lovely friends.

Virtual hugs 🤗 for you useless I know but still xxxx

My yoga teacher greets everyone with a hug (though if you said you weren't happy with it, she wouldn't.) I would otherwise have very few hugs. I also do have a massage every month or 6 weeks, but it's not the same as being touched by people you care about.

Absence of human touch does show how important it is and any touch you do get becomes over significant, even a perfunctory business handshake.

What opportunities do you get on a day to day basis interact with others on either a superficial or a more personal level?

I am a teacher so not much.

I do go for remedial massage pretty much every week and the guy I go to is fairly huggy so do have a fair amount of contact with him. If I didn't, I have no idea, I doubt I would get any.