Sex isn’t everything.
They may even feel love for each other, referred to as platonic love.
This concept originates in the ideas of the ancient philosopher Plato, from whose name the term is derived.
Verywell / Madelyn Goodnight
Plato believed that platonic love could bring people closer to a divine ideal.
This term can apply to both opposite-sex and same-sex friendships.
Platonic Relationship vs.
Romantic Relationship
A platonic relationship is different from a romantic relationship.
Types of Platonic Relationships
A few terms have emerged to describe different types of platonic relationships.
These include:
How to Form a Platonic Relationship
Platonic relationships can be important for psychological well-being.
Some ways to do this include being supportive, maintaining boundaries, andpracticing honesty.
Your platonic support system can help provide emotional support as well.
Lower Stress
Stresscan take a serious toll on both your physical and mental health.
It can also play a role in mood problems such asanxietyordepression.
Not only that, but having supportive platonic friendships also lowers the stress that people face.
Tips for a Healthy Platonic Relationship
Platonic relationships are not always easy to find.
True platonic relationships do not involve an unequal balance of emotions.
This does not mean that a platonic relationship cant or wont develop into something romantic or sexual.
If maintaining a platonic relationship is important to you, focus on establishing and maintaining clearboundaries.
Express your interest without pressuring them.
Discuss what it might mean to the relationship and how it might ultimately affect your friendship.
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