Israeli Organizer Hosts Safe, Non-Sexual 'Cuddle Parties' to Heal Emotional Trauma

Avishag Maya Zaluf from Pardes Hanna has been organizing "cuddle parties" in Israel for 12 years, creating safe spaces for platonic touch and emotional healing. These gatherings attract diverse participants including high-tech workers, colorful locals, and post-traumatic reservists, with referrals tripling since the recent war. Zaluf emphasizes that despite common misconceptions, these events involve no nudity, kissing, or sexual contact, but rather focus on consent, boundaries, and rebuilding trust through non-sexual physical connection.

The concept originated in New York in 2004 as "Cuddle Party," aiming to provide intimate yet asexual physical contact. Zaluf’s events, held in cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Beersheba, include structured workshops where participants practice asking for and giving consent, learning to say "no," and receiving touch without pressure. The sessions last about four hours, with strict rules forbidding nudity and sexual contact, ensuring a supportive environment.

Participants range widely in age and background, including pregnant women, divorced individuals, and men coping with post-war trauma. Zaluf notes a recent surge in reservists seeking these workshops for emotional rehabilitation. Attendees report transformative experiences, gaining confidence to set boundaries and reconnect with human touch. For example, Tammi Lenzkron, a divorced high-tech executive, credits the parties with helping her heal and build a lasting relationship.

Despite positive feedback, the events face public skepticism and stigma, often misunderstood as disguised orgies. Zaluf acknowledges the need for caution due to unregulated similar offerings but stresses her extensive training in trauma-informed facilitation. She highlights the cultural challenge in Israel, where physical touch is often linked to sexuality, contrasting with more open attitudes abroad.

Ultimately, these cuddle parties aim to combat loneliness and social disconnection intensified by modern life and recent crises, offering a "reset" for the nervous system through consensual, healing touch. Zaluf believes this practice fosters authentic communication and emotional wellbeing beyond romantic or sexual contexts.