Would you pay money to let a stranger touch you?
Forget swingers parties because sex with strangers is so passé, now it’s all about paying for cuddles and no sex.
According to the Australian Cuddle Party website
“Cuddle Party is a fun, light hearted, playful experiential social event designed for adults to explore affection, intimacy and touch with the main emphasis of clear communication and boundaries. You can come to a Cuddle Party to meet new people, to enjoy amazing conversations, to touch, to be touched, to have fun, to practice asking for what you want, to practice saying “no” to what you don’t want — all in a structured setting to be a safe place for exploration and enjoyment. You can even come to a Cuddle Party just to cuddle!
Not sure that I am tempted to sign up just yet but many, may others are
The Age reports that the Cuddle Party was created by two American relationship counsellors and the first party was held in New York in 2004. A Melbourne chapter opened two years later, closing not long after when its founder became ill.
“But in 2008, relationship and life coach Marus - who goes only by his first name - reopened the Melbourne arm, recently expanding to New South Wales and Queensland. His first event attracted two dozen people; a recent gathering drew almost 100”
…Perhaps the most important rule is ''no sex''. The Cuddle Party's website and Facebook page both make clear that ''cuddle party'' is not code for ''orgy'', and a verbal ''yes'' must precede any touching.
Marus is adamant that it is not about sex. He tells Michael Lallo at The Age ''It's not about sex, it's not about sex. ''I cannot overemphasise that it's not about sex.''
“Certified as a ''cuddle party facilitator'' by the US parent organisation, Marus begins each event by reiterating the guidelines. Some guests sit back and observe; others snuggle, spoon or massage each other in pairs or groups. Most parties conclude with a ''puppy pile'': a big communal hug on the floor.”
You know what? I am still not convinced. I am happy to cuddle my family and sometimes even my friends. Actually no, I sometimes greet them with a hug but it’s not a cuddle.
Each to their own though and anything to foster friendliness is good, After all who can resist a puppy (pile)?
Would you go to a Cuddle Party? Would you pay $35 to cuddle someone or have them cuddle you?
