In episode 146, “There’s More to Physical Touch”, we talk about how the love language of physical touch doesn’t just mean sex. Hear how you can show others you care about them through loving, safe touches. We begin our book study mini series over Gary Chapman’s, The 5 Love Languages in episode 141. Learn how to strengthen all of your relationships (not just with your significant other) with the secret to love that lasts.
CLICK PLAY TO LISTEN
Love Language: Physical Touch
All humans benefit from human touch. There is so much research out that proves this, which is why the love language of physical touch cannot be neglected. One thing must be clear when it comes to physical touch: it’s not always about sex. There’s more to physical touch than just that one aspect. With your spouse, yes, sex can play a role, but when we’re loving any human well, a kind, healthy touch goes a long way. Here are a few examples to get you going:
- Hugs
- High fives
- Handshakes
- Massage
- Hand Holding
- Sitting next to each other
The list goes on, but the point still stands. If you know someone whose love language is physical touch, they will benefit from positive, respectful means of touch. If the person (or you) are struggling with past/present physical or sexual trauma or sin, this must be worked through. This is why we highly recommend seeking outside assistance from your church or Christian counselors. Here’s a great sermon that speaks more into this (also viewable below).
Communication & Vulnerability
Loving, physical touch between a husband and wife must also come with clear communication. In this episode, we talk about how to deal with the awkward conversations, how to explore new options, and how to give and receive feedback from your spouse. If you’re already cringing, scroll back up and listen to our episode, “There’s More to Physical Touch.”
Know what to ask and how to ask. Always approaching the subject with honesty and kindness. Utilize the skills of vulnerability and unconditional love to have productive discussions when it comes to how, when, and where is appropriate for different physical touches. Remember, the goal is to show love and respect to your spouse through physical touch, so staying in constant communication will help this aspect of your marriage flourish.
Tips for Non-Sexual Physical Touch
We know there’s more to physical touch than sex, so we need to talk about it! If you or someone you love has the dominant love language of physical touch, here are a couple of items they may enjoy having handy.
- weighted blanket
- heated blanket
- compression sheets
They even make these items kid-size too! All of Brooke’s kids have small, weighted blankets and they absolutely love them (helps them fall asleep faster!). The goal is to make sure all parties involved feel safe, comfortable, and understand what works for each individual. As with the other love languages, it’s wise to constantly reevaluate in case changes need to be made. If you’ve realized new habits need to be created and implemented, make sure you check out our Atomic Habits mini series.
We hope you enjoyed episode 146, “There’s More to Physical Touch” and that you have practical, actionable steps you can take. Be sure to check out this entire 5 Love Languages mini series about how to strengthen all of your relationships (not just your significant other) with the keys to love that lasts. You can do this! We’re here to help. Click the affiliate image below to get your copy of Gary Chapman’s book.
Links From the Show
- The 5 Love Languages (book)
- The 5 Love Languages Mini Series
- 21 Kicks Journals
- Jeanne’s Episode
- Aaron & Jamie Ivey’s Complement Marriage Study
- Leader Kit: Complement Marriage Study
- Fleece Weighted Blanket
- Kids weighted blanket
- Compression blanket
- Compression sheets for kids
- Atomic Habits Mini Series
5 Love Languages Resources
- The 5 Love Languages (book)
- The 5 Love Languages of Children (book)
- The 5 Love Languages: Singles Edition (book)
- The 5 Love Languages of Teenagers (book)
- The 5 Love Languages for Men (book)
- The 5 Love Languages of Military (book)
- The 5 Appreciation Languages of the Workplace (book)
- The 5 Love Languages, Small Group book study
- A Teen’s Guide to The 5 Love Languages
