The Healing Power of Touch by Alok Rocheleau
In a world that increasingly feels disconnected, many of us are starved for the simple yet profound act of human touch. The gentle hand of another, the embrace of a friend, the steady palm placed on the shoulder — these moments carry a kind of medicine that no words can replicate.
Science confirms what ancient healing traditions have always known: touch is vital to our well-being. Studies from institutions like the UC Berkeley, show that positive touch — a hug, a compassionate hand on the arm — releases oxytocin, sometimes called the “love hormone.” This powerful neurochemical reduces stress hormones like cortisol, slows the heart rate, and fosters feelings of trust and safety. In newborns, nurturing touch supports healthy brain development. In adults, it strengthens immunity and emotional resilience.
Beyond the science, touch reminds us of our shared humanity. When we give or receive touch with awareness, something sacred unfolds — a mutual exchange of presence. The boundaries between giver and receiver blur. Even when giving touch to release stress, the giver naturally feels softer in the simple act of giving. It’s a dance of empathy, listening, and care — a reminder that healing is not something we do to someone, but something we cultivate together.
That is the essence of Thai Massage. Rooted in the Buddhist principle of Metta, or loving-kindness, Thai bodywork is as much a meditative practice as it is a physical one. The practitioner moves with mindful intention, guided by breath and compassion, supporting energy flow through the body. It’s often described as “assisted yoga” — but at its heart, it’s a moving prayer, an exchange of love through mindful touch.
Take a moment to share touch with someone this week. It can be simple as trading a shoulder or foot massage, but make sure you both give and receive to feel balanced. Notice that as a giver your energy shifts and you become more peaceful as the warmth of giving fills your heart.
We are excited to share our 3rd installment of our quarterly Thai Massage Series — an opportunity to both give and receive, to deepen your connection with yourself and others through this ancient art. You’ll learn to move in harmony with another body, to listen through your hands, and to experience how giving can be just as nourishing as receiving. Because in the end, we don’t just need more touch. We need more loving-kindness. We need more presence. We need more reminders that healing flows both ways. Join us, and let your hands remember what your heart already knows.
Guided by Anjuli Mahendra and Alok Rocheleau, this offering is born from a shared devotion to embodiment, mindfulness, and human connection. With over 15 years each of teaching and therapeutic experience, they bring a rich blend of expertise in Thai massage, Shiatsu, yoga, and somatic awareness — creating a learning environment that feels both sacred and playful.
Their teaching invites you to slow down, to listen with your hands and heart, and to discover how presence itself can become medicine. Through mindful movement and compassionate touch, you’ll experience how giving can be just as restorative and nourishing as receiving.
