Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our common inquiries to better understand our cuddle group and how The Bear Hugs Collective supports a body-positive community where everyone can embrace the importance of platonic touch.
What is The Bear Hugs Collective?
The Bear Hugs Collective is a body-positive community offering guided cuddle workshops, in group or personalized 1-on-1 sessions that promote trust and connection, through a series of affirmation and positivity exercises. Our workshops are focused on open communication , and self-image healing through safe, non-sexual touch.
Our goal is to create safe and open spaces for people to feel seen, supported, and accepted just as they are.
Is this a sexual event?
No. All Bear Hugs Collective events and sessions are strictly non-sexual. All touch is platonic and consent based. Consent, boundaries, and respect are central to everything we do. Even in our unclothed groups, our highest priority is the respect of a non-sexual, platonic, and supportive environment.
While we do understand that certain bodily reactions may occur, members are encouraged to set such things aside and focus on the healthy building of positive platonic experience.
Do I need to be gay or a “bear” to join
No, you don't have to be gay, or a bear. While our groups are themed for the bear community, we are open to everyone who needs help learning to love themselves.
Currently, our "Bear to Belong," "Dare to Be Bear," and "Bear With Me" workshops are limited to cis and trans men, but we plan to open more gender inclusive groups in the future. We hope to one day welcome anyone who values connection and consent-based touch as a way of building healthy connections between people.
What happens during a cuddle session or workshop?
Session begin with introductions, discussions of boundaries, and consent exercises. From there, participants are then guided through a series of affirmation and positivity exercises, gentle connection activities, partner or group cuddles, and mindful moments of rest. In our unclothed groups these exercises eventually include taking power of your image and body through guided removal of our walls and clothing.
You’re always in control of how you participate and can opt out at any time.
How do I know it’s safe?
Safety and consent are our top priorities. And our group facilitators have attended cuddle-therapy training courses and seminars provided by well known cuddle group providers from all over the country.
While there is no one specific certification or license for workshops like ours, we make sure that every participant agrees to our Code of Conduct before joining, and all events are facilitated by a trained facilitator who maintain clear boundaries and ensure everyone’s comfort throughout the session.
Can I attend if I’m shy or new to this?
Absolutely!
Many people join feeling nervous or unsure at first. You’ll never be pressured to do anything beyond your comfort level, and for most of our groups you can simply observe or participate at your own pace. Our facilitator will always be present to help you feel supported every step of the way.
Our "Dare to be Bear" group does require eventually nudity, to allow those seeking to bare themselves a safe and equal environment to participate in.
How do I sign up?
For group workshops you can simply hover over the "Workshops" tab in our menu at the top of the page.
Each listed workshop will have its own time, date, and location at which it takes place. Simply click on the picture for the requested event and you will find yourself linked to a sign up form and information on how to pay for your workshop.
Payments are accepted via Venmo as of now, but other options may be available after discussing your needs with a workshop facilitator.
What exactly is Dare to Be Bear?
Dare to Be Bear is our clothing-free cuddle group designed for cis and trans men who identify with the bear community or simply feel the need to better accept themselves and their body.
Our flagship workshop, Dare to be Bear focuses on vulnerability, body acceptance, and non-sexual physical connection in a safe, consent-based environment.
We focus on helping each other feel comfortable in our own skin, let go of internalized shame, and gain the confidence to move forward each day on the journey to loving ourselves.
Do I have to be nude to participate?
Not at all! Participants are encouraged to find the group that works best for them. Our "Bear to Belong" workshop remains clothed, and our "Dare to be Bear" workshop is clothing-free. Never would you be put into a situation where you were unaware of the group's focus. We also have one-on-one workshops where you can be in charge of whether you do or do not undress.
We are doing our best to provide comfortable and healthy places to work on accepting your body in any state of dress, because you deserve to love yourself as you are.
Where are the sessions held?
Our current "Bear to Belong" and "Dare to Be Bear" workshops have been lucky enough to be offered space by our generous host, The Providence Health Club/Eagle's Nest located at 257 Weybosset St, Providence, RI 02903.
Private 1-on-1 sessions will take place there, at a client's home, or a location chosen by the facilitator, as long as it's agreed upon by all parties.
Future groups and private sessions may take place in other welcoming community spaces as the collective grows.
What should I bring?
For clothed workshops: wear soft, comfortable clothes (like shorts, sweatpants or t-shirts). Always come freshly showered and fragrance-free out of respect for others. Though we will not be removing our clothes, the venue is kind enough to provide lockers for your personal belongings.
For clothing-free workshops: wear comfortable clothes (like shorts, sweatpants or t-shirts), our group is currently held at the Providence Health Club/Eagle's Nest, which offers lockers and towels. Always come freshly showered and fragrance-free out of respect for others.
What happens if I become aroused during a cuddle session or workshop?
Arousal is a natural physical response. It is normal and there is no need to feel ashamed. If it happens, simply stay still, breathe, and let the feeling pass. What’s important is that it’s not acted upon.
You do not need to leave or feel embarrassed. Our sessions are about comfort, safety, and respect... not judgment.
Our sessions are always non-sexual, and everyone’s boundaries and comfort come first. Facilitators do their best to handle these moments discreetly and with respect to ensure the space stays safe for all.