"Wholed Me" ™

Wholed Me: The Sacred Embrace

“When was the last time you were truly held?”

In the movie Waitress (2007), there’s a poignant line:

"Dear Baby, I hope someday somebody wants to hold you for 20 minutes straight and that's all they do. They don't pull away. They don't look at your face. They don't try to kiss you. All they do is wrap you up in their arms and hold on tight, without an ounce of selfishness to it."

This simple, yet profound sentiment inspired Wholed Me. In a world where so many of us feel disconnected, I realized how much we all need moments like this—moments of safety, presence, and unconditional connection.

Why I Created Wholed Me

There was a time in my life when I deeply craved this kind of connection—a safe, sacred embrace where I could simply be. No expectations, no explanations—just love and presence. I realized that many others likely feel the same way but have no safe space to experience it.

Wholed Me was born out of this understanding: that we never stop needing to be held, seen, and supported. My mission is to offer this experience in a way that is safe, sacred, and healing for all involved.

What Is Wholed Me?

Inspired by the idea that humans never stop needing loving, physical, and emotional connection, Wholed Me is about creating a sacred space for one person to selflessly hold another. This is not therapy, counseling, or coaching—it’s simply an act of being fully present for another human being in a safe, voluntary, and non-judgmental way.

The embrace is always:

• Non-verbal: No words, coaching, or conversation during the embrace.

• Fully clothed: Respecting personal and cultural boundaries.

• Compassionate: Focused solely on creating a sense of safety, connection, and wholeness.

How Does It Work?

Each embrace lasts 3–5 minutes (or shorter/longer, depending on the event) and can be done:

1. Side-by-Side: A less personal yet deeply impactful way to experience connection.

2. Face-to-Face: For those open to a closer embrace in a safe and sacred setting.

Offered during retreats, workshops, or conferences, participants are invited to opt-in at their comfort level.

Why Does It Matter?

Many of us go through life without receiving enough safe, loving physical contact. Research shows that physical connection can:

• Reduce stress and anxiety.

• Foster emotional healing and resilience.

• Deepen feelings of connection and trust.

Wholed Me is an opportunity to pause, breathe, and allow yourself to simply be—fully supported and loved in the present moment.

Who Is It For?

• Adult participants at spiritual retreats or workshops.

• Individuals seeking moments of peace and connection during events.

• Those longing for a safe and sacred space to feel supported.

Host Wholed Me at Your Event

Whether during a breakout session, a silent lunch period, or as an add-on activity, Wholed Me can enhance your retreat, conference, or special event by providing participants with a unique opportunity to experience the healing power of presence.

FAQs

Q: Is this appropriate for everyone?
A: Participation is completely voluntary, and boundaries are always respected. For those who prefer, the side-by-side embrace is an excellent option.

Q: What type of events is this best suited for?
A: Wholed Me works beautifully as part of spiritual retreats, healing workshops, or wellness events where participants are open to meaningful connection.

Q: Do participants need to sign a waiver?
A: This can be discussed with event organizers to ensure comfort and clarity for all involved.

Q: Who provides the embrace during Wholed Me?
A: As the sole practitioner, I personally offer each embrace to maintain the sacred, selfless nature of the experience and to ensure a safe, respectful environment. This helps uphold the integrity of the practice and create a consistent, meaningful connection for all participants.

Q: What if my religion or personal beliefs restrict physical contact with men?
A: I completely respect and honor personal and religious boundaries. Participation in Wholed Me is entirely voluntary, and I will always do my best to create a safe and comfortable experience. If this practice doesn’t align with your beliefs, you are welcome to observe or not participate with no judgment or pressure. You are free to replicate the experience with someone who you feel more comfortable with - but I cannot guarantee the same experience.

"Rev UP! regularly brings his "Wholed Me" ministry to retreats hosted by my organization. This sacred offering of healing embrace has changed lives. The integrity, sensitivity, and compassion he brings to each encounter is precious medicine for the world, and we are grateful." – Rev. Liza Rankow, Spirit, Sound and Silence Retreats, One Life Institute.