From Grief to Healing: The Science of Cuddle Therapy with Keeley Shoup | Ep. 109

In this episode of Taboo to Truth, I sit down with Keeley Shoup — co-owner of CuddleList, director of CuddleXPro, and a certified Wheel of Consent facilitator — to explore the groundbreaking world of professional cuddle therapy. Keeley explains how platonic touch, rooted in boundaries and consent, can promote healing, reduce anxiety, ease grief, and improve relationships. Together, we break down the science behind oxytocin, discuss how intimacy isn’t always sexual, and share powerful stories of transformation through touch. Whether you’ve never heard of cuddle therapy or are curious about its impact, this conversation will shift how you think about connection, healing, and intimacy.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction

Introducing Keeley Shoup and sets the stage for today’s taboo topic.

1:15 – What Is Cuddle Therapy?

Keeley explains the origins, purpose, and misconceptions about cuddle therapy.

3:40 – The Science of Touch

How oxytocin, nervous system regulation, and platonic connection improve mental health.

6:05 – Virtual Cuddle Therapy

How sessions adapted during COVID and what “online cuddling” really looks like.

7:40 – Intimacy Beyond Sex

Redefining intimacy: emotional, romantic, platonic 

10:00 – Cuddle Therapy in Practice

Keeley shares stories of healing, from grief support to boundary setting.

12:50 – Couples, Polyamory & Touch

How cuddle therapy applies to couples, throuples, and polyamorous groups.

14:20 – A Powerful Client Breakthrough

The story of emotional release leading to unexpected physical healing.

16:00 – Closing & Extended Cut Info

Final thoughts

Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!

Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.

This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.

Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast

Keeley has practiced as a full time Cuddle Therapist since 2015, supporting clients in both individual and group settings. She is a certified Cuddle Party facilitator and has taken every training program that exists for professional cuddlers. She continues her education in IFS, EFT, somatic experiencing, embodiment practices, the wheel of consent, and racial equity. In 2017, she became the Director of CuddleXpo, the first ever professional cuddlers convention. The 3 day educational event hosted over 100 professionals and participants from all across the world. Keeley has been a fierce advocate; reaching international audiences as she works to destigmatize mental health, promote education on boundaries and consent, and increase access to the groundbreaking therapeutic modality of cuddle therapy.

Keeley is fostering an interdisciplinary community within the field of mental health professionals. She is the founder of Talk & Touch Pros; a networking resource group for collaboration between talk and somatic therapies. As co-owner and CEO of Cuddlist, Keeley works to increase the company’s visibility, further the high standard of quality within Cuddlists’ community of practitioners, increase practitioner’s accessibility to supportive resources, and champion the Cuddlist mission across the globe.

Connect with Keeley:

Website: https://www.keeleyshoup.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourcuddletherapist

Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.

This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.

Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast

Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook.

Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook.