Physical intimacy is an important part of any relationship. This isn’t to be confused with simply having sex.

 

Physical touch refers to other acts of intimacy as well, which are all an important aspect of a relationship - holding hands, hugging, cuddling, giving massages - any skin-to-skin contact between yourself and your loved one.

 

Physical contact with our loved ones induces a release of the hormone ‘Oxytocin’ in our bodies. Oxytocin is a hormone that induces feelings of pleasure. It is produced in a part of our brains known as the ‘hypothalamus’, and is released from the posterior part of our pituitary gland into the bloodstream. It was first described as a hormone involved in giving birth, since it induced labour, but it has since been shown to have several important effects on our emotions.

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In relation to our love life, Oxytocin helps promote feelings of trust and love between one another. Animal studies have shown that it helps promote monogamy when it is secreted during mating. It is also secreted when there is physical touch between ourselves and our special someone, and promotes feelings of trust and love between partners.

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Spending some time cuddling up to your loved one, and have meaningful physical contact will help both of you bond and grow closer together. There are several things you can do.

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Try gazing into each other’s eyes. There are some psychology medical studies that indicate that maintaining eye gaze with one another can increase arousal and promote intimacy between partners. In the literary field, the eyes are described as the windows to the soul, and maintaining a gaze with someone close to you for an extended period is definitely an intimate gesture. 

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You can also hold each other’s hands as you walk, or as you sit together. An intimate gesture like this, especially when done in public, signals to each other and the people around you that the two of you are partners.

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Hug often, and don’t release too quickly. Something fun to try is to set a time for a minute or two, and cuddle up and hug for the duration of the timer. You can do this every night, so you’ll be assured of having regular cuddle time together as well.

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It is also important to some people for this physical touch to be displayed where others can see - for example, hugging or holding hands in public. Some people see it as a public statement and affirmation of their love for one another, making it a very important part of your their lives together. However, not everyone is comfortable with such public displays of affection, and some people may even feel uncomfortable with these gestures in public. Always try to understand what your partner wants and is comfortable with, and find a common ground that meets both your emotional needs.

 

WRAP IT UP!

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Physical touch between partners helps promote feelings of intimacy and closeness. It helps you to develop and maintain a loving relationship. Set aside time for this crucial love language, and watch your love for each other grow with each passing day!