Held by Nature: My Mindful Somatic Touch Session at Vegan Camp Out

This year, I had the pleasure of organising and facilitating a gentle mindfulness and somatic touch experience at Vegan Campout Festival in the Mind and Body area beneath the trees.

I wanted to create a calm, welcoming space where people could slow down, reconnect with themselves and explore platonic touch through mindfulness, consent and body awareness. The session was intentionally small, allowing me to offer gentle guidance and help everyone feel supported throughout the experience.

We began with grounding and breathing exercises before moving into a series of gentle, guided touch activities. Each stage was optional, and I reminded participants to listen to their bodies, communicate their boundaries and take part only in ways that felt comfortable for them. I also joined in, sharing the experience alongside the group rather than simply observing from the outside.

The natural surroundings played an important part in the atmosphere. We were circled by trees, creating a peaceful sense of being held by nature. Within that setting, I helped hold the space for participants to relax, connect and explore somatic awareness at their own pace.

The experience became more than simply a cuddle session. It was a mindful exploration of presence, trust, communication and connection. I was delighted to see the participants settle into the process and enjoy the gentle sense of safety and togetherness that developed within the group.

Afterwards, the feedback was incredibly positive. Everyone who took part said they had enjoyed the experience, and the event administration team later shared that other people had wished they had attended. Hearing this was especially encouraging, as it showed that there is genuine interest in creating more spaces for mindful, platonic connection.

Organising and facilitating the session was a meaningful experience for me. It was wonderful to bring together my interest in mindfulness, Reiki and compassionate connection, while creating something that people found calming and enjoyable.

I am grateful to everyone who joined me, trusted the process and helped make the session so special. Although we were only a small group, the experience felt deeply meaningful. Surrounded by trees and held within the space we created together, it was a beautiful reminder that connection can begin simply—with presence, consent and a willingness to slow down.

I look forward to organising more gentle, inclusive opportunities through Vita Reiki to explore mindfulness, somatic awareness and platonic touch.

I am aware that some folks miss platonic touch, the FAQ has more details regarding no touch, touch, and for repeat clients, additional gentle platonic touch during the session.