This thesis analyses four principles of contact improvisation (CI) in relation to the role of touch, and how these can contribute to the creation of positive and meaningful relationships between self and others in moving practices. The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the importance of touch on an individual’s physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing and how this can contribute to the positive and meaningful relations with a dancing partner within contact practice. CI as an artform focuses on the importance of connection and communication with a partner, it is through the shared language created by touch and tactile stimulation that these connections can emerge. This paper discusses a practical study, which explores the four elements of contact, pressure of touch, points of contact on the body, proximity of touch and duration of the touch, and its effect on how a relationship is formed. The study shows that many of the participants who undertake CI require the role of touch to be exercised throughout to feel reassured by their partner.
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