Getting in touch with touch: a use of caressing exercises to enrich sensual connection and evoke ecstatic experience in couples

Abstract

Of all the senses, touch is the first to develop; it is the most essential to life and a requirement for normal development. Interpersonal touch, including sexual touch, is also the most controversial of the senses, perceived by some as uncomfortable or threatening, and by others as the epitome of sublime pleasure and connection with a partner. An extraordinary and basic way sex therapists can enrich the sexual connection between couples is to introduce caressing exercises that are not goal focused on arousal and orgasm. Caressing exercises assist couples in moving beyond any negative or ambivalent attitudes toward partnered touch, often bringing them to levels of sensual awareness and tactile pleasure that are new and delightful.

Keywords:

• touch
• sensual
• sensate focus
• caressing exercise
• feet caress
• tactile pleasure

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Linda De Villers

Linda De Villers is an adjunct professor at the Graduate School of Education and Psychology, Pepperdine University, Los Angeles, CA, USA. She is also a psychologist who does private practice as an AASECT-certified supervisor and diplomate of sex therapy. She is the author of two books, Love Skills and Simple Sexy Food™, and presents nationally and internationally on these and other related sexuality topics.