Sometimes, we don’t even know how we touch other people. I was recently on an airplane, meeting my own fears of flying. Taking a moment to meet my seat mate, before pulling back from the gate before takeoff – changed me forever.

My gesture of interest in Other created the most magical, lasting impression of kindness. My seat mate felt seen and could be vulnerable with a complete stranger.

Her gratitude for my ear, presence, and heart-felt knowing of the pain she was carrying – broke open both of our hearts. She gifted me a rose quartz bracelet in thanks. “I wasn’t sure why I’d bought this – but this must be meant for you, in remembrance of our time together.”

This experience is what I would like to think of as a healing for both of us. A definite “Reiki” experience – truly joyful – raising the vibration between us and beyond.

This time together truly felt good for both of us – there was a shift in her pain, more hope and lightness in her being that I was able to witness. I truly felt happy for her. These kinds of experiences I get to participate in when people come to my table. But these exchanges between people – spontaneous, loving, kind exchanges – happen when we slow down, notice and are curious about our fellow human. Whether in my healing studio space or out in the world, it is deeply rich to acknowledge the power of physical and non-physical human touch.