It can proceed to orgasm or transition to intercourse. Erotic, non-intercourse touch can include manual, oral, rubbing, or vibrator stimulation.Įrotic scenarios and techniques are an integral part of couple sexuality providing a sense of vitality, creativity, and unpredictability. Playful touch is valuable in itself and/or can serve as a bridge to sexual desire. What makes playful touch inviting is the enhanced sense of pleasure and unpredictability. Playful touch can include touching in the shower or bath, full body massage, seductive dancing, or games. Intermixes genital pleasuring with non-genital touch (usually semi-clothed or nude). It has value in itself as well as a bridge to sexual desire at that time or later. Sensual touch is an integral part of couple sexuality. Sensual touch includes a head, back, or foot rub cuddling on the couch while watching a DVD, a trust position where you feel safe and connected, cradling each other as you go to sleep or wake. Non-genital pleasuring which can be clothed, semi-clothed, or nude. Affectionate Touch (1st Gear)Ĭlothes-on touching, such as holding hands, hugging, or kissing.Īffectionate touch is not sexual, but it provides the foundation for intimate attachment.

The invitation is to read and discuss the following descriptions of each of the gears, and complete Part 1 and 2 below. It helps to develop a common language to facilitate communication and embrace a variable, flexible approach to intimacy, touching, sexuality, and intercourse. The 5 Dimensions of Touch can also be viewed as are five gears, with a 1 to 10 scale of subjective pleasure/arousal. The purpose of this exercise is to facilitate dialogue with a focus on enhancing sexual desire and pleasure. All types of touch have a role and no one type of touch is inherently better than another.

Sexuality encompasses far more than intercourse. This post presents the “Five Dimensions of Touch” to expand upon the understanding touch in our relationship, along with preferences and desires.Ī foundational idea is that the essence of couple sexuality is sharing pleasure-oriented touch. In reality, there are many different forms of touch, each serving a different purpose and meeting a different need. We can often get stuck in one way of thinking about touch, affection, and intimacy with our partner.

Getting in touch with your sexuality