What is the Parallel Universe?

The Parallel Universe is a body- and sex-positive happening, an adult playground. We want to create a safe(r) space to express yourself and explore your (otherwise maybe hidden) desires and longings. The Parallel Universe events are sober parties – we want to explore this universe without the distraction of any kind of substances. 

Why did we create the Parallel Universe?

We want to provide a safe(r) space where people can connect with their inner child and play free from stereotypical and societal norms. We want to make the world more inclusive, more passionate, more playful and a bit sexier. Also, we want to bring topics around intimacy, diversity and safer sex into wider awareness.

What happens at the events?

There are a thousand ways to experience the Parallel Universe – it will be different for everyone, each time. There will be workshops, games, performances, discussions, music, dance and open spaces for connection, your own creativity and self-expression.

What is included in the events, what do I have to bring?

This changes from event to event, so please read the description of the specific one you want to attend and check your email two days before the event. Usually we love to provide food, but unfortunately during the Coronavirus pandemic we are legally prohibited to do that, so please bring your own food and drinks!

Did the Coronavirus make you stop all events?

Almost. We had to cancel all our planned events and festivals, but we will restart organizing events in a different setting. We are longing to reconnect with the community and to get in non-physical contact. We will focus on self-love and workshops obeying the legally mandated distance. What definitely changed is the range we can offer: during the pandemic there will be no costume-corner, no playfight, no shibari, no cuddle puddles, no buffet, no stay-over. The Parallel Universe looks a bit different but it does not stop us from connecting with our desires and celebrating our sex-positivity. 

*COVID-19 special: During Covid-19 we will follow the mandated safety measures. Therefore we will abstain from any kind of activities that include physical contact. ( existing pods like couples, lovers, polycules, roommates, family can be close to each other but we ask you to not get intimate )

What does sex-positivity mean?

We see sexuality as a positive element in human life. We have an open and welcoming attitude towards its many expressions or consciously chosen non-expressions, along with an awareness of sexual health and consent. Our passion is based on experiencing sexuality as an enriching and empowering force in our own lives. Sex-positivity doesn’t necessarily mean to have sexual encounters with numerous people or attending play parties or orgies. It means to reflect on your own sexuality, act non-judgmentally, consensually and respectfully toward yourself, and others and their sexuality.

What does body-positivity mean?

Every body is welcome – no matter the shape, gender or orientation. To us, body-positivity also means fighting against sexism, taboos, stigma, racism and colonization, heteronormativity and homophobia, ableism or ageism. The Parallel Universe is a space without body-shaming and open for all bodies beautiful in all their differences.

Is this a sex* party?

The Parallel Universe is no giant orgy or a swinger party. We want to create a space without taboos or shame, where people can express their sexual and sensual desires. We will provide open spaces for various kinds of interaction – cuddle areas*, play areas*, room for kinky experiences* as well as non-sexual spaces and workshops. 

Will there be nudity? 

Yes, you are invited to dress or undress as you feel like. 

Will I see people having sex*?

Usually yes, but in times of Corona no.During the pandemic, all kinds of sexual activities are strictly limited to self-love.( existing pods like couples, lovers, polycules, roommates, family can be close to each other but we ask you to not get intimate ) What happens in the Parallel Universe depends on the guests’ mood, but it is quite likely for you to see naked people and to witness people engaging in different kinds of intimacy. However, we will always provide an area for only non-sexual interactions or special spaces for sexual engagement.*

Do I have to engage with someone or be intimate?

No. You are free to do whatever you want as long as you have the consent of everyone involved. We will offer plenty of different areas for all kinds of needs and desires.*

Where can I have sex*?

We will introduce the different areas and spaces at the beginning of each event. Please arrive on time and be especially attentive in the beginning to help create a safe(r) space for all people attending. 

Can I only watch others?

Sure! We consider voyeurism (watching others having sex) as taking part in a sexual interaction*, therefore it needs the consent of all people involved. Depending on the designated area you are in, it might or might not need explicit consent. If you enter the playroom you might not need to ask, witnessing a couple in private intimacy you will most likely have to ask for their consent to watch them. Don’t be shy, just ask if you can watch and take a Yes or a No graciously. In case of uncertainties please reach out to our Consent Angels.

*COVID-19 special: During Covid-19 we will follow the mandated safety measures. Therefore we will abstain from any kind of activities that include physical contact. ( existing pods like couples, lovers, polycules, roommates, family can be close to each other but we ask you to not get intimate )

Taking care of yourself helps you to take care of everyone else

What will be allowed?

• Nudity – take off your clothes, be as free as you want.
• Self-love – enjoy yourself through moving, dancing and touching yourself.
• Watching – a glance doesn’t transmit viruses. Looking into each other’s eyes, watching other people touch themselves, participating in our sensual-while-distant – workshops will be possible.

What can’t be allowed?

• Touching – hugging and touching other people who are not part of your current covid pod. (link to covid care talk)
• Cuddle puddles – as much as we enjoy group hugs, this must be postponed to other times. 
• A big buffet – this bums us out. We love to provide food and sensual experiences through culinary delights, but this time we have to ask you to bring your own food and drinks.
• Costume Camp – we cannot set up our costume camp, but feel free to bring as many funny costumes as you want to express yourself. 
• However, we are delighted to provide a space to reconnect, to see and talk to each other, have fun in workshops, engage in discussions and enjoy each other’s presence without physical contact. We see it as a chance to focus on the core principles of sex-positivity – without the pleasures of physical intimacy.

Let’s care for each other, be extra mindful of each other’s boundaries & personal space and let’s respect everyone’s personal risk assessment & choices. In times of COVID-19, safe(r)sex must mean that we will not encourage any kind of physical closeness in our workshops and our facilities.

Agreements: 

• 4 Cs:  CONSENT – CARE – CONFIDENTIALITY – COVID
• Sober party (No mind alternating substances such as alcohol & drugs are allowed)
• 1 m distance In- and Outside, Mouth-nose mask inside
• Washing hands regularly, avoid touching your own face 
• Sex-positive values
• Nudity allowed 
• No contact outside of existing pods (couples, lovers, polycules, roommates, family) 
• Connection and intimacy build up within the safety measures possible

COLOR CODE & RISK ASSESSMENT

Before entering you will be provided with a colored wristband to mark your personal risk assessment. You are also invited to bring a blanket in the color matching your risk assessment.

• Red: I wanna look at you from far. Please keep a safe distance, don’t come closer than 1 to 2 meters.
• Orange: Let’s talk about it, I’m not sure yet …. Come closer, but check in with me before.
• Green: Come closer, I see myself not at risk. Please note that due the legal situation we can not allow touch between participants outside of existing pods (couples, lovers, polycules, roommates, family) 

What does Consent mean?

Consent is about the people involved in any kind of action. It is the right to say Yes or No to whatever affects you in a certain activity. It is important to understand that previous consent for intimacy never overrides the withdrawal of consent in the present moment. In other words: Only a Hell Yes! is a Yes. And this applies anew to every moment.

How to say No in a nice way?

There are many different ways to say No and a No doesn’t need to come in harsh words. Try out what suits your mood! As important as it is to express a No, it is equally as important to hear a No and respond gracefully – for yourself and the person being brave enough to protect their boundaries. Please find your favorite way to say No or respond to a No with this poster. Print it and spread the word!

What kind of behavior will be accepted, what will be penalized?

If it feels good and everybody involved likes what is happening, we will not limit your playfulness and your pleasure in any way. However, if we witness or hear of any kind of violation of the principle of consent we will act accordingly. This can mean the exclusion of individuals from the ongoing event or even all future events.

How do you take care of your guests?

Consent Angels are our guardians and your safety contact in case you feel confused or insecure. Whenever you have a question, feel overwhelmed or overtaxed, don’t hesitate to reach out to them or the organizer janina vivianne.

How can I recognize a Consent Angel?

Consent Angels will be wearing recognizable costumes or accessories. We will introduce them at the events so everyone can easily find them at any time.

Can I be a Consent Angel?

Our Consent Angels are carefully selected and have a lot of personal experience at sex-positive events. If you consider volunteering as a Consent Angel we will be happy to receive your application! Email us and tell us about your motivation and about the events you have been attending in the past.

What does Confidentiality mean?

What happens in the Parallel Universe stays in the Parallel Universe. How people express themselves there might be stigmatized in their daily life, so please treat other people and their realities with respect and confidentiality. We won’t share stories on that aren’t our own, without identifying others, its  not allowed to ‘out’ others, .

Can I take pictures?

Not without the consent of all people involved. You are free to take selfies (careful with people in the background!), and you are free to take group pictures with people who gave you their consent. We won’t collect smartphones or put stickers on your camera, we believe in self-reliance and trust you to follow our principles. Consent Angels will enforce this rule.

What do the 4 Cs mean? 

CONSENT

• We check in with each other – only a Hell Yes is a Yes
• We respect personal boundaries – we respect all different kinds of a No
• There is no pre-consent – any given consent can be withdrawn a minute later, check in with others regularly

CARE

• We respect you in your whole truth – feel free to express what you need and want
• We work to create a space (and maybe someday a world) without sex shaming, kink shaming, slut shaming or body shaming
• We care for each other – everything is possible, nothing is obligated
• Sexual health is important to us we protect each other and get tested regularly 
• We help each other out if someone seems in trouble, stressed out or frozen.
• We value self-reliance and self care.

CONFIDENTIALITY

• We trust each other to treat all people with respect and not ‘out’ others.
• We see it as an honor to witness other people express their sensual and sexual self
• We won’t share stories on that aren’t our own, without identifying others.
• We don’t take non-consensual pictures

COVID

• Please use the provided hand sanitiser 
• Wash your hands before and after touching objects,doors etc.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Longer is better.
• 1 m distance In- and Outside, Mouth-nose mask inside
• Avoid touching your own face 
• No contact outside of existing pods (couples, lovers, polycules)

How many people will there be?

Usually our events are fully booked with approximately 60 to 100 people, depending on the location and capacity. 

Who will be attending?

Our guests come as singles, couples and throuples, we don’t choose by the number but by their awareness and responsibility. We invite people of all genders and orientations, and we love to see diversity.

Can anybody come?

We strive to create a comfortable atmosphere in which you feel welcome and in safe hands. Therefore we invite people we already know and trust, let guests bring their friends and lovers, and try to get to know those who are new to us in order to create an intimate atmosphere.

A registration is mandatory, no tickets are sold at the door.

How do I apply and what do I need to pay attention to?

It is an essential aim of the Parallel Universe to create a safer space with people who know and value our principles, especially the principle of Consent, Care and Confidentiality. During the application we will ask you some questions. Also, please tell us if you know someone o f the team and what you expect from the Parallel Universe. We will get in touch with you to get to know you a bit better.

If I come alone, how do I find people to interact with?

The Parallel Universe will provide a lot of activities to get to know each other without pressure. Come early and give yourself enough time to arrive at the venue, to get in touch with yourself, the Parallel Universe and perhaps other human beings.

How can I buy a ticket?

You can apply here for a ticket through an online-form in each event description. There are more people wanting to come than we can host, so we have to select our guests. Please register and wait for approval. As soon as you have been approved, we kindly ask you to transfer the money via online banking or Paypal to secure your spot.

Can I buy tickets for my friends?

No, each person has to apply for themselves. However, you can let us know if you and a new friend want to come together and we will try to make sure that all of you will get in. 

What if I cancel at the last minute? Will I get a refund?

Yes, we can refund your ticket depending on when you cancel. 

Cancellation up to 2 weeks before the event: 100% refund

Cancellation up to 1 week before the event: 50% refund

Cancellation up to 3 days before the event: 25% refund

Cancellation within the last 3 days before the event: no refund.

COVID-19: With a positive Covid-19 test you will be refunded at any time.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes, all entrances to our venues are fully accessible and on the same floor with little or no  thresholds.The gender-neutral toilets include at least one fully accessible toilet. Please reach out to us beforehand if you have any questions or would like to let us know about your special needs.

I am deaf/blind and want to bring somebody to assist me. How does that work?

If you need a personal assistant or an assistant dog please reach out to us in advance and we will find a way to suit your needs!

What shall I wear?

Whatever you feel like! Wear whatever makes you feel good and what expresses the very You in this moment. Come in your favorite costume, in your most seducing underwear, dress in what you never dared to wear before or come in your pyjamas. Some of our events will offer a costume & photo corner. We dress to express, not to impress! COVID-19: Unfortunately there will be no costume corner in times of Coronavirus.

I would really like to come, but I can’t afford the entrance fee.

If there is one thing we shouldn’t have to worry about, it is money (although we know how it feels to worry about money). We want to make the Parallel Universe as inclusive as possible and will certainly find a way for you to participate. Whether this includes some voluntary action, payment in parts or low-income tickets. Please email us at paralleluniverse [dot] eu [ät] gmail [dot] com !

I am nervous. What can I do?

Don’t worry. We are all nervous when we engage in something new. As a first-timer we recommend you to come early so you have enough time to connect with the space and the people around you. Consent Angels will be in sight at all times and our team will be there to support you. Also, please reach out via email if you have any questions!

In times of COVID-19, safer sex must mean that we will not encourage any kind of physical closeness in our workshops and our facilities. Sex-positivity is a consent based attitude where sexual and sensual interaction with people around you can take place without shame. We believe in self reliance and trust the people in their risk assessments. 

For more information what is allowed and what is forbidden please check our FAQs – Covid-19 Special .

How does the corona virus transmits?

• • The virus can spread from someone who has it within a distance of 1m50 by coughing or sneezing.
  • It can be transmitted through shared plastic or metal surfaces, but there is uncertainty how long the virus can live. Probably between 2 hours – 4 days. 
  • By direct contact with saliva/mucus from someone who has it.
  • It has been found in feces of people who are infected with the virus.
  • It hasn’t been found yet in semen or vaginal fluid.
  • Other coronaviruses do not efficiently transmit through intercourse.
  • There is still a lot to learn about the Coronavirus

In the spirit of harm reduction, we also want to give some extra safety measures if you still decide to meet people beyond the Parallel Universe. But please keep in mind that this is not allowed at the event! This benefits not only your safety, but also those of others and society in general.

Transmission risks while getting intimate

• Kissing can easily pass SARS-CoV-2. Avoid kissing anyone who is not part of your small circle of close contacts.
• Sucking fingers might spread SARS-CoV-2. We touch a lot of surfaces, and this is a highway for the virus.
• Rimming (mouth on anus) might spread SARS-CoV-2. Virus in feces may enter your mouth. 
• Condoms and dental dams can reduce contact with saliva or feces, especially during oral or anal sex.
• Avoid sharing sheets, towels, … And wash them afterwards.
• Choose someone you live with: Having close contact – including sex – with only a small circle of people “pods” helps prevent further spreading of the Coronavirus.Communicate with each other about other interactions outside of this circle.
• With multiple partners: Make good and acceptable agreements, and try to temporarily limit close contact to one.

Safer sex tootls 

In the spirit of harm reduction, we also want to give some extra safety measures if you still decide to meet people beyond your household/partner. But please keep in mind that this is not allowed at the event! This benefits not only your safety, but also those of others and society in general.

• • Have good, clear and honest communication. Have a COVID-Care & STARS-Talk with your prospect date: how do they deal with social distancing and dating? Who do they live with? Who have they been around? Anyone within 3 degrees of separation who is at risk? Do they take it seriously? Make a Risk Assessment. Make good agreements that are fully understood by everyone and possible to follow. If possible, limit your outside close contact to only each other .
  • Keep the dates as short as possible. And postpone as long as possible.
  • Wear a facemask, and don’t touch your face or the mask. Try to not remove the facemask during the whole length of the encounter. Don’t kiss. Masks are scarce! So consider donating to care facilities & use a reusable cotton mask if possible. Wash them at 90°C
  • Take a bottle of hand sanitizer and use it. but NOT on your genitals. DO disinfect surfaces you’re using before and after. Wash used bodyparts (genitals, hands) very well before and after the sexual act.
  • Use mouthwash before and after, instead of brushing teeth. Brushing teeth can cause micro fissures where infections can enter. Mouthwash helps with minimizing bacteria, but does not specifically help prevent SARS-CoV-2.
  • Use a pair of latex gloves. Dispose of them correctly after use. Wash your hands before and after.
  • Use a(n internal) condom or dental dam. Use and dispose of it correctly.
  • Wash clothes when back home. Preferably on 60°C/140°F & use soap.
  • Get all kinky and play with cheap onesies (which you wash afterwards at 60°C/140°F), plastic wrap mummification (the cheap one, not the fancy one with microholes), improvised (washable) gloryholes, and other ‘sexy distancing’ games. (Latex suits won’t work sadly enough, since you can’t wash them at 60°C/140°F.)
  • Washing up before and after sex is more important than ever. 
    • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Longer is better.
    • Wash sex toys with toycleaner and warm water.
    • Disinfect keyboards and touch screens that you share with others (for video chat, for watching pornography or for anything else).Consider again to take a responsible decision and help ‘flatten the curve’ 

Consider again to take a responsible decision and help ‘flatten the curve’ 

Also get tested regularly! & Prevent HIV as other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Here more information where to get tested in Europe and about their transmission check our website.

Here the Permanent link for the whole safer sex guide document with last updates: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Sd6EoFCFOTmG1_IW_07s_DxNGWEA0m8T/view.

1. Covid Guide extracted from Sex-Positive Corona Safer Sex Guide by Olivier Dieleman, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Sd6EoFCFOTmG1_IW_07s_DxNGWEA0m8T/view
2. Inspired and partly paraphrased from the Play Safe Berlin Post. (24/03/2020: https://www.facebook.com/playsafeberlin/posts/635517473954085)
3. Most of this part of the text is inspired, paraphrased or copied from the document released by the NYC Health (22/03/2020: https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/imm/covid-sex-guidance.pdf ), except the Post-Corona-Apocalypse Measures of course.

Here the location specifications for the The Parallel Universe on the 4.July 2020 near Vienna

Location/ Space: Outside 1 Workshop space in the Garden hidden ( <150qm ) , 1 Workshop space in the Garden on the field  ( <200qm ) , 1 Campfire , 1 Stage with field in front ( <150qm ) , Inside 1 industry hall partly open ( <300qm ) 

Sanitary: 1 Garden Toilet ; 1 Toilet, washbasin & Shower in the Summer Kitchen ; 1 Toilet, washbasin & Shower in the Hall

Other Utilities: 2 Kitchen Indoor , 1 Outdoor (just for the Team)

Drink & Foods: Participants bring their own food, drink, cups, plates, cutlery ect…

Guests: 50 Guests + Team & Workshop Facilitator

(deutsch version weiter unten)

We are a non-profit website for one of the projects from the Loslassen association, The Parallel Universe. One of the Founding members  & current president is Janina Vivianne. By joining our event you become supportive member of the Association this give you the possibity to be part of your community and attend any event of this Association without a new application.

ZVR: 1907889329

The Parallel Universe is a research project from

Letting go – Association for art, culture and personal development

The non-profit activity of the association is not profit-oriented and has the following idealistic purpose: 

(1) The focus of the Association’s work is the human being and the promotion and further development of the cultures, arts, customs, & traditions , as well as the research and communication of social values and cultural techniques which positively support the individual in his or her personal development. 

(2) The work of the association promotes the letting go of taboos and partly shamefaced social norms and conventions in a safe framework, in order to enable a conscious reinvention of one’s own actions and preferences with regard to interpersonal interactions.

(3) The creation of experiential spaces in which members of the association can relax and connect with others. Loving, interpersonal and romantic relationships are the focus of knowledge transfer, personality development and workshops especially on the topics of (self-)love, serenity and joie de vivre. 

(4) The association also promotes the creativity of its members and offers various opportunities to try out, express and develop oneself in a creative and playful way. The positive effect of creative creation both as an individual and as a group should bring the lost value of art and culture as a meaningful and community-building basic element of human community back to the centre of consciousness.

By joining our event you become supportive member of the Association this give you the possibity to be part of your community and attend any event of this Association without a new application.

The supportive member have no right to vote or any other obligations towards the association. Ending your membership is possible at any time with an email to paralleluniverseDOTeuÄTgmailDOTcom

More Questions? Write us a mail.

German:

The Parallel Universe ist ein Forschungsprojekt des Vereins

Loslassen – ein Gemeinwohlfördernder Verein für Kunst-, Kultur- und Persönlichkeitsentwicklung

Die gemeinnützige Tätigkeit des Vereins ist nicht auf Gewinn ausgerichtet und hat folgenden ideellen Zweck: 

(1) Im Mittelpunkt der Vereinsarbeit stehen der Mensch und die Förderung sowie die Weiterentwicklung der von ihm geschaffenen Kulturen, Künste, Sitten, Traditionen und Bräuche, sowie die Erforschung und Vermittlung von gesellschaftlichen Werten und Kulturtechniken, welche das Individuum in seiner Persönlichkeitsentwicklung positiv unterstützen.

(2) Die Vereinsarbeit fördert das Loslassen von tabuisierten und teilweise schambesetzten gesellschaftlichen Normen und Konventionen in einem sicheren Rahmen, um eine bewusste Neuerfindung des eigenen Handelns und der eigenen Vorlieben in Bezug auf zwischenmenschliche Interaktionen zu ermöglichen.

(3) Das Schaffen von Erfahrungsräumen, in denen die Vereinsmitglieder sich entspannen und mit anderen in Verbindung treten können. Bei Wissensvermittlung, Persönlichkeitsentwicklung und Workshops speziell zu den Themen (Selbst-)Liebe, Gelassenheit und Lebensfreude stehen liebevolle, zwischenmenschliche und romantische Beziehungen im Fokus. 

(4) Der Verein fördert zudem die Kreativität der Mitglieder und bietet diverse Möglichkeiten, sich kreativ und spielerisch auszuprobieren, auszudrücken und zu entfalten. Die positive Wirkung kreativen Erschaffens sowohl als Individuum als auch als Gruppe sollen den verlorengegangenen Stellenwert von Kunst und Kultur als sinn- und gemeinschaftsstiftendes Grundelement menschlicher Gemeinschaft wieder stärker ins Zentrum des Bewusstseins rücken. 

Mit der Teilnahme an einer unserer Veranstaltungen, werden Sie Fördermitglied des Vereins Loslassen, dies gibt Ihnen die Möglichkeit , Teil Ihrer Community zu sein und an jeder Veranstaltung teilzunehmen ohne sich erneut bewerben zu müssen.

Das Fördermitglied hat kein Stimmrecht oder andere Verpflichtungen gegenüber dem Verein. Die Beendigung Ihrer Mitgliedschaft ist jederzeit mit einer E-Mail an paralleluniverseDOTeuÄTgmailDOTcom möglich.

Weitere Fragen? Schreib uns gerne eine E-Mail.