SHAG Week (Sexual Health Awareness & Guidance) is more than simply physical intimacy, but an aspect of it can also be relationships, communication, the five love languages are five different ways of expressing and receiving love:
- Acts of service,
- Gifts,
- Physical touch,
- Quality time,
- Words of affirmation
It’s important to understand that not everyone communicates or shows love in the same way.
This concept was developed by Gary Chapman, he theorised that people naturally give love in the way they prefer to receive love, better communication can be achieved when one can demonstrate caring to another person's love language.
👉🏼 www.abersu.co.uk/changeaber/campaigns/shagweek/
Acts of service
If your love language is acts of service, you may value it when your partner goes out of their way to make your life easier, things as simple as making your coffee in the morning. “This is for people who believe actions speak louder than words”
- How to Communicate: Using action phrases like “I’ll help”, they want to know you’re with them.
- Action to Take: Do tasks together. Going out of your day to alleviate their daily workload
Gifts
If your love language is gifts, it is thought you feel loved when people give you ‘visual symbols of love’, it’s not about monetary value but about the symbolism or sentimental value. “This is for people who believe objects can embody feeling”
- How to Communicate: Thoughtfulness is key, something that reflects your time together or feelings.
- Action to Take: Give thoughtful gifts and gestures. Small things matter in a big way. And if you’re the one receiving a gift be sure to express gratitude.
Physical touch
If your love language is touch, you’d feel most loved when receiving physical signs of affection, this can be incredibly affirming and serve as a powerful emotional connector. “This is for people who value the feeling of warmth or comfort”
- How to Communicate: Non-verbal (with verbal consent), use body language and touch to express love
- Action to Take: Show physical affection often, remember consent and communication are key
Quality time
If your love language is quality time, you may feel more loved or valued when your partner makes time for you. Active listening, eye contact and full presence are prioritised. “This is for people who feel valued when they feel heard”.
- How to Communicate: Uninterrupted and focused conversation. One-on-one time is crucial.
- Action to Take: Make time for each other, do small things that make the most of whatever time you spend together.
Words of affirmation
If your love language is words of affirmation you value verbal acknowledgement of affection, compliments, words of affirmation and verbal encouragement. “This is for people who the written and spoken word resonate with”.
- How to Communicate: Encourage, affirm, appreciate and empathise. Actively listening is important here too.
- Action to Take: Send an unexpected note, text, card. Genuine compliments and encouragements are key.