The Power of Touch

Touch is a powerful language that communicates care, trust, and connection more deeply than words alone. In our busy, digital-driven lives, meaningful touch often gets lost, leaving many of us starved for authentic human connection.

I've always believed in the importance of physical connection. In my own life, I've felt how a simple touch can bring comfort, ease tension, and communicate affection more effectively than words. This belief led me to explore the science and practices around touch, and eventually, it guided me to develop Playfight.

Research clearly highlights the significance of touch in human relationships. A comforting hug, an encouraging pat, or simply holding hands can reduce stress, boost mood, and even strengthen the immune system. According to psychologist Dacher Keltner, touch is our primary language of compassion and trust. It helps build bonds and makes us feel secure.

Many people today experience "touch deprivation," a lack of meaningful human contact. The consequences can be severe: increased stress, anxiety, loneliness, and even physical health issues. A review published in Psychology Today links touch deprivation to elevated cortisol levels, reduced immune response, and chronic feelings of isolation.

My personal longing for connection and proximity thought touch is certainly one of the founding elements that inspired me to create Playfight—a practice that's more than just playful wrestling. It's specifically designed to reconnect us with our bodies and others through mindful, consensual touch. By engaging in safe physical interactions, participants rediscover comfort and trust in being physically close, something often lost in adulthood.

In Playfight sessions, boundaries are clearly communicated and respected, creating a safe space for participants to explore and enjoy touch without fear or judgment. I've seen firsthand how this practice significantly reduces anxiety about physical closeness, making people more open to connection and intimacy in their everyday lives.

But what if you don't feel comfortable being touched by strangers? This is a common concern, and I take it very seriously. Playfight prioritizes consent and clear communication. You're encouraged to honor your own comfort level at all times. Participants can start slowly, establishing trust gradually and setting clear boundaries about what feels right. This empowers individuals to engage at their own pace, building confidence and comfort in physical interactions step by step.

Regularly participating in activities like Playfight helps combat touch deprivation by fulfilling the essential human need for physical contact, fostering emotional resilience, confidence, and deepening relationships.

Seeing people reconnect through the power of touch is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. In an increasingly distant and digital world, reclaiming closeness isn't just important—it's essential.

Want to experience the benefits of mindful touch yourself? I warmly invite you to join our next Playfight session and explore this journey together.

Matteo Tangi

PS: Fun fact—my surname, Tangi, comes from the Latin word tangere, which literally means "to touch." It seems that exploring the power of touch was always part of my journey!