The Power Of Touch In (Almost) Every Type Of Relationship

How To Use The Power Of Touch In Your Life

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Now that we understand the importance of non-intimate physical affection, it’s clear that it can benefit nearly every type of relationship in your life (where appropriate). Some ways to harness its power might include:

• Cuddling with friends. Being single or living far from family doesn’t have to mean you can’t enjoy physical affection. Be more affectionate with your friends. Cuddle up for a movie night with a platonic friend. Hug your friends more. Hold a friend’s hand during an intimate conversation to increase connection.
• Reduce tension with a partner. At times when you are feeling distant from your partner or are experiencing ongoing conflict, try to say less and touch more. Take a break from verbal communication and just hold each other for a few minutes. This will instantly make your bodies feel more relaxed and both parties feel more emotionally connected. From there, you can re-engage in verbal communication from a calmer and more loving place.
• Snuggle your kids. Don’t underestimate the power of giving your children physical affection. Even on days when they’re misbehaving, be sure to give them plenty of hugs. Physical affection should not only be reserved for “good kids.” In fact, plenty of physical touch from parents can be what results in “good kids.”

People were born to be close. We rely on each other for survival, and even if that no longer means hunting and gathering together, it still means being physically near each other. We evolved to respond positively to physical touch, and giving and receiving physical affection shouldn’t just be reserved for romantic partners. It’s a beautiful behavior that can benefit nearly every type of relationship.