Relax, Refresh, Reset: Rethinking Male Touch with Travis Matthews (Epi 47)

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What happens when we stop assuming that every instance of male touch must be sexual? In this powerful conversation, John and Jerry sit down with Travis Matthews (WLF Massage, Salt Lake City) to explore how Thai massage, fascia release, and somatic bodywork help queer men relax, refresh, and reset. We unpack why touch between men is often stigmatized, how arousal can simply be energy moving (not a sexual invitation), and practical ways to cultivate safe, affirming touch that supports healing, intimacy, and community.

You'll learn:

- Why many queer men equate touch with sex--and how to shift that paradigm

- The difference between erotic and sensual/energetic experiences

- How Thai massage & somatic work release stored tension/trauma and invite vulnerability

- Concrete practices to build touch literacy (hugs, handshakes, supportive touch) without sexual pressure

- How "Relax, Refresh, Reset" can become a daily embodiment practice

Guest:

Travis Matthews -- WLF Massage (Thai massage, fascia work, lymphatic & Swedish modalities) • Salt Lake City, UT

Website: WLFmassage.com

Key Takeaways:

- Touch can be healing, relational, and spiritual--not only sexual.

- Somatic work helps create space for new energy, clarity, and connection.

- Build community by practicing non-sexual touch in safe contexts.

- Reframe labels as conversation starters, not destinations.

Listen on audio: Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Watch more: Mindfully Gay Podcast on YouTube

Connect: MindfullyGay.com • IG: @mindfully_gay • TikTok: @MindfullyGay

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