Affection
A lighter, warmer, lower-stakes fondness than Love, without requiring its depth or duration.
pleasantlow activation
How it shows up
Affection appears in small warm moments: a hand on a shoulder, a fond nickname, pleasure at a friend's text, warmth toward a pet. It tends to bring softness in the voice and an urge to be near or to look after. It may help keep everyday bonds alive. Affection can be light and casual, without the depth, commitment, or history that love usually involves.
How it differs from Love
Love is a durable, deep orientation toward another; affection is lighter, warmer fondness that needs no depth or long history.
Notice
Notice the small gestures of fondness you give and receive in an ordinary day.
Where it is felt
Felt most in the chest, face and arms.
Based on Nummenmaa et al. (2014), bodily maps of emotions, and related research. The map shows where people report bodily sensation, on average; individual experience varies.