The Power of Touch

 Me and My Girls

I don't know if you have ever noticed the tag-line for my blog here, "Cooking. Sewing. Crafting. And All Things Domestic."  Well, I've been noticing lately that I have done A LOT of cooking, sewing, and crafting, but the "domestic" part of this blog has gone to the way-side.

So in thinking about the focus of The Cottage Home, I have decided to incorporate some more posts addressing family, home and relationships, since that is the core of my life.  I hope you don't mind.  This blog is an ever evolving creative outlet for me and I'm so happy that you have decided to join me for the ride!

 My in-laws (Gigi and Grumpy) with Savannah Rose and Matilda Jane

The Power of Touch

Integrating Touch Into Our Every Day Lives

I recently attended a new playgroup with my girls.  A good friend invited me to join her group that has been together for 3+ years.  I met a lovely group of women who all have two children and are going through the same ups and downs of life as I am with two little ones.  It was so refreshing talking to these women - they were laid back, warm and very inviting.

As we were getting ready to go and saying our goodbyes, every single one of these women (some of which, I'd only just met) gave me a big hug.  And not just a little, "one-arm, I'm hugging you because I feel like I should" hug.  A hug that felt like family.

I left this group with an amazing feeling, almost a high of sorts.  I mean I've been to other groups with my girls before, but never have I had this same feeling and it got me thinking about the power of touch in our every day lives and it's ability to nourish our souls.

 Sister in-law, Abby and her boyfriend Bryan

Nine ways to integrate touch into our every day lives:

1.  A high-five.  Whether it's with your children because they did a great job. Or with your spouse because you accomplished something together.  Or even with a co-worker for a job well-done.  If you feel like giving a high-five - go for it!

2.  A handshake.

3.  A big hug.  Whether it's with your family or friends.......a hug always feels good.  Make every hug matter!

5.  An arm around the shoulder.  Placing your arm around someones shoulder can say so much without using words.  It can show support, a bond, compassion and friendship.

6.  Tickles.  Little ones loved to be tickled.  Our little Savannah will say "again" over and over until we tickle her some more.  It's a great way to connect in a light-hearted, fun way.

7.  Kisses. 

8.  Snuggles.  I don't think there is anything that feels better than snuggling up with the ones you love.

9.  Holding Hands.  Holding hands shows a commitment, whether it is a commitment to a spouse, child, family member or friend.  Hand holding has the power to give both people involved a strong sense of love and security in their relationship.

I encourage you to try to incorporate more touch into your every day lives.  Try it for a week and let me know how you feel.  I can almost guarantee you will have a warmer feeling inside your soul.

Have a wonderful weekend!