How to get comfortable with physical contact?

[Anonymous]

So I'm really not comfortable with physical contact for the most part. I have a friend that I don't mind physical contact with but otherwise dislike physical touch completely and I would like to get better.

If you have any advise it would be super appreciated.

[Sarah2007]

It's something related to your Personality and how you're with your friends.

For me, I'm very open and free around my friends, physical contacts happen all the times and I find it normal between friends.

Perhaps you need to make more physical contact there and there around friends, you will find out that it's not a big deal and they wouldn't pay much attention to it.

[Asker]

That's a very good idea thank you. I will have to look into it.

Thank you for taking the time to reply.

[kylee2437]

Not liking physical contact is more psychological and probably has to be worked on via therapy. There’s a reason why you don’t like it so much that’s deeper than “just working on it” because why are you trying to change someone that in the long run isn’t comfortable to you?

[Asker]

Thank you for replying I really appreciate you doing so.

I want to get better with it so that I could have a genuine relationship at some point. And that's not a bad idea to bring up with my therapist.

[Oliverlogan263]

Ah man, I used to be kinda weird about touching and stuff too. Here's some things that helped me get more comfortable over time:

- Start small, like a friendly punch on the arm or high five. Ease into it.

- Ask close friends if they're cool with hugs. Tell them you're working on being less awkward. They'll understand.

- Pay attention to body language. If someone leans into you or smiles, chances are a hug is okay.

- Think of physical contact as a sign of trust and care between friends, not something scary.

- Compliments from friends that include touching, like a pat on the back, feel nice and help get used to it.

- Ask to practice wrestling or MMA with a pal. Looks silly but it's fun messing around and gets you used to touching.

- Deep breaths help relax when you're nervous. Overthinking makes it weirder than it is.

Don't force anything if you're really not ready. But maybe start with daps or high fives and go from there at your own pace, dude. You've got this! Let me know if any of that helps or if you've got other questions.

[Asker]

Thanks for taking the time to respond that's all great advice I will definitely take into account.

[Oliverlogan263]

No problem dude, I'm always down to help a friend out. Breaking out of your comfort zone with physical touch can be tough, but those baby steps really do add up over time. Don't get frustrated with yourself if it feels weird at first either, going slowly is key. And remember, you got this - you seem like a thoughtful guy, I'm sure with some practice it'll start coming naturally before you know it. Keep checking in with your buddy too, I'm sure they want to support you however they can. You've got this, man! Just take it one hug, high five or fist bump at a time. And hey, let me know if you ever wanna experiment trying that stuff out - I'm always here if an extra hand would help. But no pressure, you do what feels best for you. You got this!

[IslaTheWitch]

the best would be asking a counselor for help... it probably comes from other problems or not pleasant experiences in the past...

[Asker]

That's a good idea I will bring it up with my therapist. Thank you for taking the time to reply.

[Anonymous]

You need therapy.

[Asker]

I am in therapy, I will have to bring it up again with my therapist. Thank you for taking the time to reply.