Providing Aftercare
Aftercare isn't just a luxury when working with users; it's essential. It’s checking in and resetting after an intense physical, mental, or emotional experience, ensuring the user is not only okay with how the scene went, but that they’ll return for more.
Why Provide Aftercare?
Aftercare may not always seem like an obvious need in phone or video sessions, but it is! In these virtual settings, emotional connections are still quite intense, and a proper come-down or emotional check-in is crucial for the users. Sessions like this tend to invoke intense emotions and vulnerability. Providing aftercare for users will ensure they feel grounded and ultimately safe.
If you are pushing a user to roleplay, test boundaries, or do anything strenuous with their body, there are many ways that you can help provide them with aftercare both during and after sessions. Still, knowing that even seemingly simple sessions may benefit from aftercare is essential.
Ways to Provide Care During Sessions
Message them or ask them how they are doing during the session and if they enjoy what is happening. Checking in with them is not a mood killer; it allows them to shift or change things. Try saying things like, “How do you like that? Is that enjoyable? I wonder how I can make you enjoy this even more.”
In a video chat, look for visual cues that something is shifting. The user may seem tense or distracted, or their voice may change in phone calls. Check-in by asking them, “You have become a bit quiet. Are you still enjoying where this is going? You seem a bit distracted. Would you like to take a break?”
Add positive reinforcement so they know you enjoy the actions and are happy with their performance. Say things like, “I appreciate you sharing that with me. I think you’re doing great! I am very pleased with where this is going.”
Ways to Provide Care After Sessions
Stick around! It’s easy to move on after a session, but checking in afterward or sticking around to see how they are doing is a great way to provide aftercare. “I hope you are feeling great after that! Take care of yourself and get some water or rest.”
Express some happiness or gratitude toward them. “I enjoyed this and would love to do it again. Thank you for trusting me; I had so much fun!” This reassurance helps users who quickly get in their heads after playing and helps bring them back again!
Ask for feedback or check in the next day. There’s nothing wrong with reaching out to users the next day and ensuring they are doing alright. “I wanted to ask if there was anything else you wanted to add to our next session and check whether you’re doing alright.”
How Performers Can Use Aftercare Themselves
Aftercare benefits not just the user but you as well! After strenuous sessions or a long day, providing some aftercare for yourself is essential to feel well-rested mentally and physically.
Embrace physical self-care! Try taking a warm bath or shower, stretch, or give yourself time to rest and recharge.
Keep nourished! Have water nearby and a snack to replenish your energy after long sessions. It’s essential to keep yourself healthy and fed.
Set boundaries with users. Give yourself time to log off and not be available to anyone. This will allow you to recharge, maintain boundaries, and replenish.
Reward yourself with a little treat! This reward can be a fun snack or sweet treat, a massage, or even a chance to watch that show you’ve been waiting for!
Integrating self-care practices and aftercare into your online sessions helps users remain grounded and self-assured and return for more! It also keeps you feeling recharged and ready for future sessions. You protect your well-being while creating and maintaining meaningful relationships with users.