Touch More Often : The Power of Physical Contact

We all know that the right kind of touch will leave us aroused, but there are many reasons to make physical contact with your partner outside the bedroom as well. The proven benefits of touch are ubiquitous, from reducing violent behavior and strengthening the immune system to developing trust and team dynamics[1]. To me, though, its most important effect is increasing emotional intimacy.  

I am sure you can remember a time when you were nervously sitting beside someone you liked, just praying that they would make “the move” to touch you, and as soon as it happened you felt butterflies, giddiness, and a rush of endorphins. So my question is: why, as we become closer to someone, does that desire for touch fade away? Why do we spend so much time in the presence of people who gave us those feelings not touching them except for erotic purposes? We should instead be maintaining physical contact: walking up behind them while they are doing the dishes and wrapping your arms around them, gently kissing their neck; or, while sitting on the couch watching TV, nuzzling together or even just playing footsies. 

A quick Google search will produce dozens of pages on the power of physical contact, both in a romantic or erotic sense and in a professional or platonic sense. So, I propose a challenge: make a conscious effort to touch your partner or friends at least once each time you see them this week. It can be a simple as a hug when you say ‘hi’ instead of a handshake, or a comforting hand on their shoulder or back when something heavy is discussed. You may be surprised by how much more communication, trust and empathy you enjoy in those interactions. Not to mention the sexual energy you can produce with your partner!

[1]https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/wired-success/201503/8-reasons-why-we-need-human-touch-more-ever