I think what helped was me being in a good place about myself and the fact that it was not a date. Just an offer to go for a walk around the block.

The self conscious and critical part of me was completely shut down. I have been practicing accepting myself and my flaws.

We were just walking and she started to tease me with what could be identified to "shit tests" At first I didn't understand as it was unexpected and the tone used was serious, it felt awkward and cringe and my old self would totally get offended get lost there and ruminate about it for days,

so I just responded serious answers, taking it as literal as I can without reading into the intention and assuming evil.

until it hit me, that she was teasing so I called her out on it and I said "haha you funny teaser" and started teasing back. I like humor and bantering but I never practice it with others, only with a few very close friends, and it felt like turning that switch.

So It felt like kids bantering each other, touching each other shoulders, and I was able to be myself and not think of it too much, say silly stuff, just as I would with a very close friend I trust.

And suddenly we were holding hands, that was an "oh my god" moment, this is how it happens ! at that time I was so surprised that I thought to myself "oke this just happened, do I want to escalate further ?" and the answer was a no, I just wanted to have a walk with this girl next door that I barely know, that's it, so I gently removed my hand and created a bit of distance to basically de escalate back to a previous state, then after a bit I suggested it was time to head home.