How Embracing Change Led Me Back to Hosting Cuddle Party Events After 5 Years
- Alison Rawlins
- Feb 26
- 4 min read
After five years away from hosting Cuddle Party events in my home, I found myself reflecting on the power of human connection. Cuddle Parties have always been about warmth and touch, making it surprising that I had stepped back from such a meaningful part of my life. Despite numerous requests from friends and acquaintances asking when the next event would take place, my hesitation lingered. I worried about the condition of my space, my readiness with current training, and whether my dogs would be a distraction.
When I looked back on this journey, it sparked a renewed commitment to reconnect with the community around me.
The Spark of Inquiry and Hesitation
The inquiries about hosting came from all directions. Friends, acquaintances, and even casual visitors were eager for me to revive the Cuddle Party. Each request rekindled my interest, but I often dismissed them, feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities. As each query arose, worries about my event space felt like heavy roots, making me question if I still had the positive vibes essential for a successful gathering.
Planning a Cuddle Party requires both emotional and physical space. At the time, I wasn’t sure I could provide either. On top of that, I worried that my two playful dogs, who love to cuddle as much as we do, might disrupt the atmosphere. These thoughts led to feelings of insecurity, making it challenging to leap back into community connection.
Opportunities and Roadblocks
One autumn, a friend from my teaching job approached me about a potential rental space she was considering for someone else. This idea of preparing a space for another sparked my enthusiasm, albeit temporarily. While helping someone else sounded positive, the plan ultimately fell through.
Soon after, I felt ready to prepare my own space for this prospective tenant by decluttering it first. However, that opportunity disappeared as well. Each setback brought a sense of disappointment, highlighting the roadblocks I faced in my goal to host Cuddle Parties again.
The Call for Urgency
Recently, my friend returned with an urgent plea: her friend was stuck in a tough living situation, relying on others for basic transportation. This news hit me hard. While the need was genuine, I felt reluctant to offer my space to someone I didn’t know well. The idea of parting with my cherished workshop area felt daunting.
Yet, amidst these thoughts, I experienced an unexpected sense of relief. The rental arrangement didn't work out as planned, allowing me to realize that I hadn’t sacrificed anything. Cleaning out the room had created an opportunity: it felt like a blank canvas ready for me to design a nurturing environment for my community.
Creating a Snuggle Sanctuary
With my transformed space, I began envisioning a comforting and soothing atmosphere. I decided to host weekly Sunday Snuggle Sanctuary sessions. The room would feature calming colors, plush mats, and subtle scents wafting through the air—an ideal setting for connection and intimacy.
As I crafted my plan, I recognized how deeply I missed nurturing the community through these events. It became clear that my space could become a sanctuary for those seeking comfort and connection. Memories of previous Cuddle Parties came rushing back: people sharing their lives, laughter filling the air, and the simple joy of human touch creating bonds that felt irreplaceable.
Turning Back to Cuddle Parties
With a proposed date of March 2, 2015, for our weekly gatherings, I felt a surge of excitement. Despite the lingering challenges, I committed to making my home a welcoming place for this community of affection and comfort. I decided on a suggested donation of $35, which seemed reasonable given the depth of connection we would create. In this moment, I fully embraced the change. The passion I felt for reviving the Cuddle Party experience fueled my eagerness. While my fears weighed heavily, they ultimately strengthened my determination to move forward, drawing on the love and light this gathering represents.
The Power of Embracing Change
As I prepare to welcome both new and returning participants into my space, I understand the importance of accepting change in our lives. Embracing discomfort often reveals our greatest motivations. The Cuddle Party is not merely about physical closeness; it is a reminder of our need for human contact, kindness, and shared laughter.
If you find yourself hesitating like I did, consider this a gentle prompt to reflect on your own connections. What roadblocks do you create for yourself? How might embracing change open doors to personal success and community enrichment? Insights from others can encourage us to step outside our comfort zones, invite nourishing relationships into our lives, and foster a space filled with connection.
A New Beginning for Connection
Reimagining my space for Cuddle Party events has rekindled my understanding of community, allowing me to overcome self-imposed obstacles. With each Sunday Snuggle Sanctuary, I aim to create a love-filled environment where connection thrives and everyone finds solace.
This journey has taught me that often, it is the challenges that lead us back to our passions. As I prepare to host again, I believe we can only grow when we open ourselves to change. My heart and home are ready to welcome you!
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