{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/6335b2a5559a970014e24d3c/68236dd1f368620d455b82f9?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Cuddling Therapy, Connection and Cold Water with Professional Cuddler Natasha Wicks","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/6335b2a5559a970014e24d3c/1747212072790-05ffdbf0-1631-46a6-94d6-ca80ca61df51.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>Welcome to The Waffle Shop!</p><p><br></p><p>Today I'm by <strong>Natasha Wicks</strong> — a professional cuddler and mental health therapist — to explore the <strong>transformative power of touch</strong> and the often misunderstood world of <strong>cuddle therapy</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p>Natasha shares her unique journey into this unconventional form of healing, explaining how <strong>cuddle therapy</strong> supports emotional well-being by helping clients feel <strong>safe, seen, and supported</strong>. The conversation dives into the impact of the <strong>pandemic</strong> on human connection, the therapeutic role of <strong>music</strong> and <strong>cold water therapy</strong>, and the growing need for <strong>non-sexual physical touch</strong> in today’s fast-paced, disconnected world.</p><p><br></p><p>Taylor and Natasha also unpack techniques like <strong>EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)</strong> and how it’s used to help process trauma. Together, they debunk common myths about cuddle therapy and highlight how intentional, platonic touch can play a crucial role in <strong>mental health, self-worth, and emotional regulation</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p>If you want to find out more about Cuddle Therapy please check out Natasha's work - https://natashawicksmindmatters.co.uk/</p>","author_name":"Taylor James"}