In Person and Online Therapy Sessions Available | (616) 309 0737
2460 Burton St SE #101, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
In Person and Online Therapy Sessions Available | (616) 309 0737
2460 Burton St SE #101, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Understanding Your Love Languages

By Sidney Selvig, LCSW, CAADC

What are love languages? Love languages refer to five ways we want love to be shown to us and how we show love to others. We all give and receive love in different ways, which is why becoming fluent in love languages is such a worthwhile concept. Taking the time to learn your own love language and your loved ones’ can strengthen your relationships and bonds with others.

The five love languages are as follows:

Words of Affirmation

If this is your love language, it means that spoken affection, praise, encouragement, and compliments make you feel the most loved. You thrive on hearing the reason behind why you are loved- words build you up!

Acts of Service

Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! If acts of service are your love language, this means that you feel most cased for when someone helps you out willingly and/or does something to ease your burden of responsibilities.

Receiving Gifts

Don’t mistake this love language for materialism- the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift! It really could be as simple as receiving your favorite snack that makes you feel the most special.

Quality time

Spending time with your partner and receiving their undivided attention should make you feel the most loved with this love language. You feel important when your partner is truly present, without distractions, and actively listening to you.

Physical Touch

This love language is all about being touched! Holding hands, kisses, hugs, and other thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, and/or face are what make you feel most cared for and loved.

Love languages play a crucial role in maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships- whether platonic or romantic. Love languages help individuals to express their needs, as well as help satisfy the needs of others in that relationship. We can learn to truly connect more profoundly and begin to grow closer in one’s relationships when understanding which love languages we have.

If you’re looking to further strengthen bonds and relationships, visit our relationship counseling page to find detailed information on the ways in which therapy can support you.

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