Cuddle Sanctuary Social
The Cuddle Sanctuary Social is a heartwarming, in-person workshop designed to foster connection, relaxation, and a sense of well-being. This social experience invites participants to embrace their authentic selves while exploring the power of platonic touch and community in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Newcomers often express how surprisingly relaxed and safe they feel during the event. Boundaries aren’t just respected but celebrated, creating an atmosphere where attendees feel empowered. By the end of the session, many report feeling blissfully content, deeply relaxed, and connected to both themselves and others.
Event Overview:
The event begins with a welcome circle and guided relaxation activities, setting the tone for a calm and caring experience. Communication exercises follow, establishing clear and respectful boundaries, before the introduction of cuddle etiquette—a set of guidelines for consensual, non-sexual touch. The workshop culminates in the Cuddle Lab, where participation in physical touch is entirely voluntary, offering individuals the freedom to choose their level of comfort.
Participants frequently experience increased well-being, compassion, and connection, along with benefits such as reduced stress and improved sleep. The session provides an opportunity to meet new people, connect with friends or partners in a meaningful way, and feel part of a welcoming and huggable community. There is also flexibility: participants can leave at any time if it doesn’t feel right for them.
Health Guidelines:
For the safety of the group, attendees who are feeling unwell or contagious are encouraged to skip the event and are offered a refund or credit for future sessions. Everyone is required to complete an Event Guidelines and Release Form ahead of the event to ensure understanding and agreement with the event’s ethos.
How It Works:
- Welcome Circle: 2:10 PM start with relaxation exercises and connection activities
- Cuddle Lab: Voluntary participation
- Closing Circle: 4:40 PM
- Doors open at 1:45 PM, with doors closing at 2:10 PM to maintain focus and flow.
Dress Code:
Wear soft, comfortable clothes like pajamas, t-shirts, leggings, or sweatpants. Hygiene is vital for the experience, so attendees are encouraged to be freshly showered and free of perfumes or strong scents, as some participants have sensitivities.
Cuddle Etiquette:
- No touch is required, and participants can opt out at any time.
- Boundaries are to be enthusiastically respected.
- All touch is kept “Rated G,” and participants are asked to use the Ask and Wait Method: if you’d like to initiate touch, ask first and await a clear response.
- Confidentiality is key to creating a safe space.
Venue and Parking:
Located at Laughing Frog Yoga on 12217 Santa Monica Blvd, #205, Los Angeles, CA 90025, the venue is easy to access with free underground parking. Attendees can take stairs or an elevator to the top floor of the plaza.
Pricing and Cancellation:
- Super Early Bird: $45 (until Sept 28 or while available)
- Early Bird: $55
- Day of Event: $65 Attendees can cancel up to 24 hours before the event for a refund (minus Eventbrite fees). Refunds are also available for those feeling unwell or concerned about contagion.
What to Bring:
A water bottle, optional pillow or blanket, and your favorite cozy items like stuffed animals. Water, fruit, and healthy snacks are provided.
Intoxicants and Accessibility:
The event is substance-free, encouraging participants to enjoy a natural oxytocin boost. The event space is primarily on cushions, though chairs are available for those who may need accommodations. If accessibility is a concern, contact Jean Franzblau to discuss.
About the Host:
Jean Franzblau, aka Cuddle Queen Jean, is the founder of Cuddle Sanctuary and has facilitated hundreds of events since 2014. With training from Cuddle Party, the Association of Talent Development, and Dr. Betty Martin’s Wheel of Consent, Jean is a recognized expert on boundaries, consent, and touch. She has appeared on Dr. Phil, BuzzFeed, The Bachelorette, and more. Her work includes guest lectures at universities, helping students understand the importance of consent.
Community and Feedback:
Participants are encouraged to continue building friendships outside of Cuddle Sanctuary events. If you receive a “no” to an invitation, graciousness is key to maintaining community respect. Attendees often rave about their experiences, with many describing the profound sense of connection and care they felt.
For more information or to join future events, contact Cuddle Sanctuary via FB: @CuddleSanctuary, IG: @CuddleSanctuary, or email Jean@CuddleSanctuary.com.