The body is always speaking. Learning to touch is, in part, learning to listen. We spend so much of our lives in our heads that it's easy to forget how much wisdom lives in the body. Across cultures, touch has long been understood as more than a form of comfort or affection but a way of communicating care, restoring balance, and reminding us that we're not meant to move through life alone.

In Taoist philosophy, wellbeing isn't something we chase or achieve. It's something we cultivate by learning to live in better relationship with ourselves, with others, and with the natural rhythms of life. Join Darryl Aiken-Afam for this 3-hour Olio exploring the art of platonic healing touch through the lens of Taoist philosophy.

Together we'll explore the foundational ideas of Yin and Yang, Qi (life energy), and the Five Elements of Chinese Medicine as practical ways of understanding our bodies, emotions, and relationships. We'll learn a few simple Qigong movements to become more grounded and present, then practice beginner-friendly self-care and partnered healing touch techniques from Zen Shiatsu. No experience is needed, these arts are much more about attunement and presence than technique.

We'll walk away with practical ways to regulate stress, feeling more at home in our bodies, and hopefully experience a different way of relating to yourself and others. this workshop offers an accessible introduction to practices that have been cultivated for centuries. Our hope is that after this workshop you'll be more able to support your own wellbeing and offer new ways of care to the people in your life.

Facilitated by Prof. Darryl Aiken-Afam, MPS
Darryl Aiken-Afam is a martial artist and practitioner of the Taoist healing and meditation arts, including Meridian Cleansing Qigong, Zen Shiatsu, and Taoist psychology. He is also deeply involved in social justice work. His Contact & Conversation events help everyday people navigate meaningful conversations about race by weaving together mindfulness, yoga, human touch, and social psychology to create spaces of trust and understanding. Darryl is an ACE Certified Personal Trainer, holds a Master's Degree in Leadership Psychology from Penn State University, and toured as a keyboardist with the funk band Cameo in the 1990s.

Flow of the day:

Intro to Concepts (Yin Yang, 5 Elements, Chi Energy, Taoist Breathing)

Qigong Warm Up

Basic Touch Techniques Solo Practice
Tea & Snack Break

Partner Practice
Closing Reflections

What Is an Olio?

Think Olio is an ongoing experiment in lifelong learning. We are a community of open-minded people who gather to exchange ideas with new friends and connect over art, literature, and philosophy.

Check out our full calendar

Our $30 membership gives you two events for the price of one

An Olio is what we call the social learning events we’ve been organizing since 2015. A blend between a lecture and a house party, Olios are led by a teacher who loves sharing their passions and the room is filled with curious, open-minded New Yorkers.

Our goal is to spark new perspectives, ignite curiosity, and enjoy ourselves socially—an alternative to typical nightlife options.

Disclaimer: By purchasing a ticket, you agree to have your photo/video used for social media/marketing materials. If you prefer to not have your photo taken, feel free to send us a note.

Photo by Zhi-Da Zhong

The Tao of Touch: Cultivating Presence and Attunement

The Tao of Touch: Cultivating Presence and Attunement