Physical Affection: A Key to Better Health and Wellbeing

In the opening scene of Love, Actually, Hugh Grant’s character says how, whenever he gets gloomy with the state of the world, he thinks about the arrivals gate at Heathrow airport. The reason is on screen: we see couples kissing, old friends embracing, children smiling and laughing as they jump into the arms of their parents. Airports are great places to really understand the importance of physical affection – hugging, kissing, cuddling, holding hands, or even just touching. But physical affection is ubiquitous in everyday life, too – and with good reason. Science shows that non-sexual physical affection produces more than just moments of joy – it also benefits our mental and physical health.

The Importance of Physical Affection in Romantic Relationships

Physical affection is one of the most direct and important ways that people communicate intimacy in their romantic relationships. And it seems to occur in romantic relationships all over the world, despite cross-cultural differences in ideas of love and romance. People in romantic relationships report more intimate physical affection than singletons. They’re also more comfortable allowing their partners to touch more of their bodies than strangers or friends.

How We Touch Our Partners

Even how we touch our partners is different to how we touch other people. When participants in one study were asked to stroke their partner, a friend, a stranger, or an artificial arm, they did so more slowly with their partner. Slower strokes may be experienced as more pleasant and erotic than quicker strokes. Even just thinking about physical affection from a partner evokes pleasant and erotic sensations.

The Benefits of Physical Affection

There is now strong evidence showing that physical contact is associated with better physical and mental health. One review of “touch interventions” – think massage – in 212 studies involving more than 13,000 participants found that physical touch benefited everything from sleep patterns to blood pressure to fatigue. Touch interventions were especially helpful in reducing pain, depression, and anxiety.

Couple’s Therapy

Before you rush off to book yourself a massage, you should know that much of the evidence suggests the strongest benefits come from physical affection with romantic partners. Several studies have found that, in couples, physical affection is associated with a range of physiological effects, including lower blood pressure and better immune responses.

Physical Affection and Wellbeing

In couples, physical affection is associated with better psychological wellbeing. One study found that couples who sleep-touched – cuddling shortly before or after sleep – felt happier and calmer in the morning, which meant they were more likely to enjoy the company of their partners. Physical affection – including kissing and affection after sex – is also associated with greater relationship and sexual satisfaction and better ratings of one’s relationship overall, which in turn contribute to better psychological wellbeing.

Conclusion

Physical affection is a powerful way to promote better health and wellbeing in romantic relationships. By incorporating non-sexual physical signs of affection into our daily lives, we can improve our mood, reduce stress, and increase feelings of connection and belonging. Whether it’s a hug, a kiss, or a cuddle, physical affection is an important way to show our love and care for one another.

FAQs

Q: Is physical affection only for romantic partners?
A: No, physical affection is important in all forms of relationships, including friendships and family relationships.

Q: What are some ways to incorporate physical affection into my daily life?
A: Try massaging your partner, holding hands, or giving hugs. You can also try cuddling on the couch or in bed.

Q: What are some physical signs of affection that are not sexual?
A: These can include hugging, holding hands, cuddling, kissing, and giving massages.

Q: What are some tips for incorporating physical affection into my relationship?
A: Communicate with your partner about what you both are comfortable with. Start small, and build up to more intimate physical contact. Be patient and respectful of each other’s boundaries.