Company Integrates Unique Therapy in Team Building Event

Category: Human Interest

Listening

Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. cuddle / ˈkʌdl̟ / (n) – the act of caringly holding someone
    Example:

    I comforted my little sister by giving her a cuddle.


  2. rapport / ræˈpoɚ / (n) – a good relationship with others
    Example:

    We hope to build rapport with our coworkers during the team building event.


  3. peer / piɚ / (n) – a person who is part of a similar group as someone else
    Example:

    I value the opinions of my peers.


  4. air (one’s) grievances / eɚ ˈgrivənsəz / (idiom) – to publicly express one’s complaints
    Example:

    Many employees aired their grievances about the new company policy during the general assembly.


  5. elevate / ˈɛləˌveɪt / (v) – to promote or improve something
    Example:

    Watching dramatic movies can elevate feelings of sadness.


Article

Read the text below.

A corporate events company in the United Kingdom has developed a team building activity that uses “cuddle therapy.”


Team Tactics has launched the “Cuddle a Co-worker” event, which aims to help employees relieve stress and build rapport with their peers. The event includes sessions that last for up to eight hours. It also takes place in a tent that drew inspiration from relaxation methods in India and Morocco.


Each session has teams that consist of four to 20 members. It starts with a forum wherein the participants can air their grievances about their coworkers and discuss other work-related concerns. The participants are then instructed to cuddle each other and change partners every two hours so they can interact with other members of the group. A group cuddling segment and conflict resolution conclude the session.


Team Tactics explained that the concept behind “Cuddle a Co-worker” is backed by science. Cuddling involves skin-on-skin contact, which boosts the production of the hormones oxytocin [ok-si-TOH-suh n] and serotonin [ser-uhTOH-nin]. Oxytocin affects a person’s emotions and social behavior, while serotonin elevates feelings of happiness.


The company is currently seeking potential facilitators who will be paid around £30 per hour. Aside from having an experience in a related position, a background in psychology is an advantage for interested applicants.


Similarly, a therapist from Queensland, Australia, has also incorporated “cuddle therapy” in her counseling sessions. Jessica O’Neill, a professional cuddler, perceives cuddling as a quick meditation. This is because the practice can reduce stress and can make people feel that someone cares for them.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

• Would you be willing to participate in the “Cuddle a Co-worker” event? Why or why not?
• In your opinion, what traits should a professional cuddler have (e.g. being sociable, approachable)?

Discussion B

• Why is it important for employees to build rapport with their coworkers? Explain.
• What do you think are other ways to build rapport with coworkers? Discuss.