Life Lesson 23 | Adulting Solutions: Personal Growth with Cuddle Therapy

Bea and Beth explore the current landscape of loneliness and highlight pathways to social connection and emotional healing. Today, they introduce listeners to Keeley Shoup, a prominent figure in the field of cuddle therapy and an advocate for boundary setting and consent education.Keeley shares her journey into the world of platonic touch, inspired by her early experiences and a desire to integrate human touch with therapeutic practice. Listeners will discover the intricacies of cuddle therapy, from its foundational importance of trust and communication to the many ways it can facilitate healing and long-term benefits, including social connection. Keely emphasizes the role of cuddle therapy as a supportive space for isolated individuals and those navigating social anxiety or depression, offering tools to forge self accepance and authentic relationships in their lives.Keely highlights the unique features of her practice, including applications for neurodivergent communities and the LGBTQIA+ population, while explaining learning and techniques involved in setting & respecting boundaries. We discuss the misconceptions around platonic touch, the dynamics of emotional regulation, and the importance of fostering genuine social connection in an increasingly isolated world.ABOUT KEELEY:Owner, Chicago Cuddle TherapyCo-Owner & CEO – CuddlistBoard of Directors – Cuddle PartyWebsites: cuddlist.com and keeleyshoup.comAll socials: @cuddlist or @yourcuddletherapist CONTACT US AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: Many thanks to Anthony Church, who composed the music featured for Season Two. Please check out his content here: https://linktr.ee/anthonychurchmusic  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/life-lessons-adulting-social-connection-resilience--6840285/support.Stay connectedEnjoy my FREE weekly blog and inspirational posts on Substack: substack.com/@bethbutramFollow me on Instagram & Threads: @PodcastsByBeth.Buy me a cup of coffe to show support & keep the episodes alive: ko-fi.com/bethpodcastJoin the Supporters Club for ad-free listening: spreaker.com/podcast/affirmations-for-calm-confidence--6925310