Touch Much: Why is Platonic Affection so Taboo? (BitchBuzz Life)

[archerships]

When we're hungry, it's simple — we eat. When we're thirsty, we drink. But what about when you just want to and need to be touched? There are no touch cafés. Touch doesn't come as a gift with purchase at the Lancôme counter. And if you're not in a romantic relationship, how do you fill up your touch tank to full?

There are often not enough outlets for affection in platonic relationships. Friends provide emotional support, memorable nights out, advice and adventures, but few friendships are so close that it's comfortable and acceptable for you two to, say, snuggle on the couch together, or hold each other in a longer-than-usual embrace — one long enough to communicate sincerity but short enough not to be awkward. The line becomes especially blurred if you're of compatible sexual orientations, because, oh my god, then it must mean you like each other.

via life.bitchbuzz.com

Via David Weekly.

Posted via web from crasch's posterous

Comments

Oh, my, yes.

[jasonecaesar.livejournal.com]

So true. :(

"Touch cafes"

[daphnep.livejournal.com]

Manicures--having someone handle your hands is such a small thing, but some days can be just the right thing.

Professional massages. It's not all about back pain. Even the hair salon, having someone's fingers in your hair for the shampoo.

[evelynne.livejournal.com]

I remember reading about those hug parties that tried to address this problem. It's so much easier for women in the US -- we're allowed to hug, cuddle and even hold hands with each other and nobody really cares. But I've noticed that it's very stressful when I'm sick and not getting my normal hug/cuddle allotment, and I've wondered if it's hard for unattached people without tactile friendships. When I was single, I was always very cuddly with my girlfriends and family members so I have never gone long without it.

I wonder if having a dog to cuddle with helps fulfill that need. They're always talking about how bringing animals to elderly people lowers their blood pressure and stuff.

[h-postmortemus.livejournal.com]

Uh, massage parlors?

With or without Happy Finish...