Genitals, gently

A workshop by Noam Raz.

We will dedicate the day to the champions of sex: the genitals. Exploring delicate ways of approaching them, teasing them and connecting to their vulnerability. Building together the emotional safety they require in order to become receptive and communicate clearly what they need and want.

To create such a space, we will cultivate a specific quality of touch: A witnessing touch that poses questions instead imposing predetermined routes toward dubious satisfaction. We will work gently and slowly, taking the time to notice what expectations, fantasies and inner scripts arise when genitals are involved. Aiming to look beyond them and explore what is actually happening, right now, between us. To free ourselves, at least to some extent, from the performative demands of normative sexual culture.

Structure

The workshop will begin with a solo somatic warm up (Feldenkrais like), to get into contact with the body. Spending some time with sensations and impulses, without the relational element. From there we will move into partner work, introducing touch (in other body parts and then the genital), consent and communication. Participants are encouraged to say no, or check and then say no (or yes). Nudity is optional. Resistances, shame and shyness are cherished and welcomed.

A note on eroticism and Sexuality

While eroticism and sexuality are esteemed members of this container, they don’t have to be the goal. In fact, another interesting direction to explore might be how non-sexual a touch to the genitals can be. This is completely up to you (and your partner).

Partnering

You are welcome to come with a partner, lover, one night stand, a friend or by yourself (and be paired with others who come solo). You are very invited to come on your own, and in fact there can be something very exciting and rewarding about meeting new people in this kind of space, but please keep in mind that we cannot guarantee gender balance or that you would always have someone you want to work with. There will be an assistant present, to help with the pairing, and there is also always an option to step out and witness until the next round.

If you have any question, concern or something you would like to address together before the workshop – I invite you to write me.