“Please don’t touch me without my permission”

– Mr. Little Boy

For cuddling or touch to exist, there needs to be a relationship between the two partners. The kind of relationship that can define the type and extent to which the individuals can cuddle or touch each other. The way a married couple will cuddle will not be the same way the individuals in a platonic relationship will cuddle. This section contains the different types of relationships.

➢ Queer Platonic (QPRs)

Queer Platonic is a relationship that features intimacy and closeness between the partners involved. It could be a romantic relationship or a non-romantic relationship. Specifically, it involves a platonic relationship or a close emotional connection between two people. The intimacy and level of commitment in a Queer Platonic relationship is greater than a romantic relationship. Some Queer Platonic relationships may or may not involve sex. Individuals in this relationship don’t consider themselves as best friends; it is far more than that, though to the onlooker they are seen as close friends. A Queer Platonic relationship can appear in whatever orientation the partners choose; either as a non-romantic or asexual relationship. You may hardly find two QPRs that are the same. One may involve kissing and/or sex while the other does not involve either or both of them.

➢ Romantic

A romantic relationship is often defined as a sexual relationship. This is a general perception as not all romantic relationships are attached to sex or amorous affairs.
By definition, a romantic relationship is an intimate relationship where the involved partners respect each other. It is an emotional connection that may involve physical but not necessarily sexual intercourse. Essentially, it is an intimate relationship that provides two individuals the foundation to grow in their personal lives

➢ Platonic

The term platonic relationship refers to a relationship that has a degree of intimacy between two partners. What makes this relationship stand out amongst others is the absence of sexual activities. Yes, there is no sexual activity in platonic relationships despite the closeness and emotions being shared by the two parties. Boundaries A healthy relationship is one with boundaries. When boundaries are properly defined and respected, it will go a long way in making your relationship last longer. These boundaries can often be crossed based on mutual understanding. If boundaries are always broken, then there is a need to set up a wall. These walls could be distance, abstinence or restrictions. Relationships with boundaries bring the feelings of both parties into consideration. In less healthy relationships where boundaries are not respected, the partners involved function by assumptions. They believe their partner feels the same way they do. They are not concerned or bothered by the consequences of breaching their partner’s boundaries. Boundaries in a non-romantic, asexual or romantic relationship is very crucial. It enables each partner to avoid violating the intimate space of their partner. It is also very important to clearly communicate boundaries to our partners. This makes us feel safe and happier in our relationships.

What are Boundaries in a Relationship?

➢ Defining of trigger words In this regard, there is a need for the clarity of language to be used; especially those words that hurt. It is important to discuss words that remind you of your past negative experiences.

➢ Agreeing on what you tell friends If you have friends that you share intimate information about your relationships, it will be best to tell your partner about them. You and your partner will decide the extent of the information your friends should know about the relationship. The most important thing is for both of you to be in agreement on such a sensitive issue.

➢ Setting sexual boundaries Being in a committed relationship doesn’t mean there shouldn’t be sexual boundaries. Determining what to do and what not to do to or with your partner is important.

➢ Deciding what’s off-limits to share It is very important to set a boundary such as what is off-limits to share; this makes each partner feel more comfortable in the relationship.

The Importance of Boundaries None wants to be controlled but that is what most people do in their relationships which often brings untimely doom. We want to be in charge of everything and want our partner to do only what we perceive to be right. This is unfair. A relationship in this direction is heading towards disintegration. When boundaries are set, you create a mutually understood relationship; a relationship filled with respect and love. It makes for maintaining a successful relationship. It makes you feel safe and heard.

The Importance of Consent and How to Communicate Consent is the permission given to you by your partner to do something or break certain boundaries. It means the person is aware of the forthcoming event and knows about its possible consequence. They can even say no if they change their mind at any point in time and the refusal should be honored. Consent and boundaries work together. When your partner declines a move, it means they’ve created a boundary and breaking this boundary without consent is unhealthy in a relationship. In a purposeful relationship, consent is very important. It is the responsibility of the two parties in a relationship to make sure that they feel comfortable and safe with each other. The way you behave or your actions towards your partner will surely have an effect on their feelings about you and it will deeply affect the relationship either positively or negatively. Importance of Consent Prior to making a decision in a relationship, the consent of both individuals involved should be obtained. When the two parties give consent to an action and the action yields undesirable results, they will both walk through its consequence together rather than one party throwing the blame. For the sake of emphasis, consent is required in all relationship dealings, particularly one that includes sexual intimacy. There should always be a consensual sexual activity regardless of the level of intimacy. It is against the law to go against the will of your partner. It’s not just a crime but the emotional trauma it evokes may last forever. How to Communicate If you want to gain the consent of your partner, there is a need for communication and getting a feedback – Yes or No.

Communicating is an art that allows for feedback. – You must be honest and the following tips will guide your communication so as to positively win your partner’s consent: replica rolex watches

➢ Be Confident

Everyone acknowledges the bold; so, start being confident Confidence attracts or makes a person pay total attention to you. It makes you look great and worth people’s time. Be honest, don’t be manipulative. Be respectful, and be receptive.

➢ Show Interest

Great communication means giving space to the person you are communicating with and understanding that they need to understand you. This understanding cannot be achieved if there is constant rambling during a conversation. Be as clear as possible and show interest in being understood. You should also be able to make others feel free and confident to talk about themselves instead of just listening to you..

➢ Listen Twice, Speak Once

It’s important to give the other person your undivided attention when they are talking as this will lead to an ease and flow. The ability to exercise patience while listening to your partner’s reasons will create the room for smooth-sailing communication..

➢ Do Not Attack

To get your partner’s consent, you should be careful with your choice of words as well as your tone of voice. Harsh words can sound like an attack which can make your partner go on the defense and feel less receptive to your message.

➢ Be Honest

The truth hurts most of the time but it is necessary for a healthy relationship. You should learn how to be honest with your partner. Make your motives open and very easy to understand. Once your partner senses an ulterior motive, it becomes hard to fully trust you.

➢ Check Your Body Language

Knowing how to use body language to maintain an effective and efficient communication will give you an opportunity of gaining consent from your partner. Make sure you give your partner the undivided attention he/she deserves and do not engage in any other activities like playing with your phone during a conversation.

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