arise . Once you notice them , just turn your attention back to your physical sensations . Notice if this process helps you experience less reactivity .
As you process the tension with your partner , see if you can genuinely respond with a compassionate touch . Place your hand on their hand and notice if you are calmed and if your partner is calmed by this simple act . This may be an easy way to deescalate the tension . When couples deescalate tension , they are more likely to be able to solve the problem or find common ground even with different perspectives [ vi ].
Whether mindful non-sexual touch is used to calm your heart in a moment of conflict or to create a warm connection , commit to implementing this easy , free , and beneficial tool . As you practice this approach to relationships , it will become more instinctive , and you will find that touch has the power to change the environment of your connections to others .
References [ i ] Jakubiak , B . K ., & Feeney , B . C . ( 2017 ). Affectionate touch to promote relational , psychological , and physical well-being in adulthood : A theoretical model and review of the research . Personality and Social Psychology Review , 21 ( 3 ), 228-252 . [ ii ] Thomas , P . A ., & Kim , S . ( 2021 ). Lost touch ? Implications of physical touch for physical health . The Journals of Gerontology : Series B , 76 ( 3 ), e111-e115 . [ iii ] Cleary , M ., & Hungerford , C . ( 2021 ). Physical touch in a changing world : Guidance for the mental health nurse . Issues in Mental Health Nursing , 42 ( 2 ), 201-205 .
Chelom E . Leavitt , J . D ./ Ph . D ., is an assistant professor in the School of Family Life at Brigham Young University . Online : Chelom E . Leavitt ,
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