TOUCH vol. 7 | Page 13

NOT TOUCH ME Often times in our efforts to be caring and compassionate, we might be tempted to shy away from touching those who are ailing, for selves, or for their loved ones who are also trying to cope, it is often difficult to fully express the impact that this experience has. Since touch is our universal language that can communicate things that our words cannot, it becomes a great way to interact with others during these difficult times. fear of increasing their discomfort or pain. While the thought behind this is virtuous, the truth is that many people actually crave these expressions of touch to help soothe their pain and ease their suffering. The journey that begins with a cancer diagnoses is often a painful and difficult one to navigate. There is so much shock and uncertainty, that then gives way to a very painful acceptance of the potential effects of this disease. Whether for the patient them- It is not uncommon for people to find themselves at a loss for the best ways to help those who are affected by cancer. This being said, one of the greatest things that each of us does have the capacity to do, is to share the gift of compassionate touch. Since touch is our universal language that can communicate things that our words cannot, it becomes a great way to interact with others during these difficult times. Bodywork practitioners have the