Love is a many-splendored thing, or so the saying goes. But did you know that there are actually six different types of love? That’s right, folks. Whether you’re experiencing a romantic love that sets your heart aflutter or a familial love that makes you feel safe and secure, there are several different ways that people experience this complex emotion.
So let’s dive in and explore the six types of love in all their messy, beautiful glory.
1. Eros Love
First up, we have Eros love. This is the kind of love that most of us are familiar with – the fiery passion that sets our hearts ablaze and makes us feel like we’re walking on clouds. Eros love is characterized by intense physical attraction and a desire for sexual intimacy. It’s often depicted in movies and books as the ultimate goal of romantic relationships.
While Eros love can be exciting and intoxicating, it’s important to note that it’s not sustainable in the long-term. In fact, studies have shown that the intense feelings associated with Eros love tend to peak within the first six months of a relationship, after which they start to fade. So if you’re in a relationship that’s based solely on physical attraction, it’s important to consider whether you’re really compatible with your partner beyond the bedroom.
2. Storge Love
Next up, we have Storge love. This is the kind of love that’s often associated with family members, especially parents and children. Storge love is characterized by a deep sense of affection and attachment, as well as a desire to protect and care for the person you love. It’s the kind of love that makes you feel safe and secure, like you always have someone in your corner.
While Storge love is often seen as less exciting than Eros love, it’s actually incredibly important for our overall wellbeing. Studies have shown that people who have strong familial relationships tend to be happier and healthier than those who don’t. So even if your family drives you crazy sometimes, it’s worth taking the time to nurture those relationships and show your loved ones how much you care.
3. Philia Love
Third on the list, we have Philia love. This is the kind of love that’s often associated with friendship. Philia love is characterized by a deep sense of camaraderie and loyalty, as well as a desire to support and uplift the people you care about. It’s the kind of love that makes you feel like you’re part of a team, working together towards a common goal.
While Philia love might not have the same intensity as Eros love or the same sense of security as Storge love, it’s actually incredibly important for our mental health. Studies have shown that people who have strong social networks tend to be happier and more resilient than those who don’t. So if you’re feeling lonely or disconnected, it might be worth reaching out to some old friends or trying to make new ones.
4. Agape Love
Fourth on the list, we have Agape love. This is the kind of love that’s often associated with spiritual or religious beliefs. Agape love is characterized by a deep sense of compassion and selflessness, as well as a desire to help others without any expectation of reward. It’s the kind of love that makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself.
While Agape love might seem like the least tangible of all the different types of love, it’s actually incredibly important for our overall wellbeing. Studies have shown that people who engage in acts of kindness and compassion tend to be happier and more satisfied with their lives than those who don’t. So even if you’re not a religious or spiritual person, it’s worth considering how you can show kindness and compassion to those around you.
5. Ludus Love
Fifth on the list, we have Ludus love. This is the kind of love that’s often associated with playful, flirtatious interactions. Ludus love is characterized by a sense of fun and lightheartedness, as well as a desire to enjoy the moment without getting too serious. It’s the kind of love that makes you feel like a kid again, chasing after someone on the playground.
While Ludus love might not be as deep or meaningful as some of the other types of love, it’s still an important part of our social interactions. Studies have shown that playfulness and humor can help to strengthen relationships and reduce stress. So if you’re feeling like your relationship or friendships have become a bit too serious, it might be worth trying to inject a bit more Ludus love into your interactions.
6. Pragma Love
Last but not least, we have Pragma love. This is the kind of love that’s often associated with practical considerations, such as shared values, goals, and interests. Pragma love is characterized by a sense of compatibility and practicality, as well as a desire to build a long-term partnership based on mutual respect and understanding. It’s the kind of love that makes you feel like you’re building a life together, one step at a time.
While Pragma love might not have the same romantic allure as Eros love or the same sense of security as Storge love, it’s actually incredibly important for building healthy, long-lasting relationships. Studies have shown that people who prioritize compatibility and shared values tend to have more stable and satisfying relationships than those who don’t. So if you’re looking for a partner, it might be worth considering what practical considerations are important to you beyond just physical attraction.
In conclusion, love is a complex and multifaceted emotion that can take many different forms. Whether you’re experiencing the fiery passion of Eros love, the deep attachment of Storge love, the camaraderie of Philia love, the selflessness of Agape love, the playfulness of Ludus love, or the practicality of Pragma love, it’s important to recognize and appreciate the many different ways that people can love and be loved. So go out there and spread a little love, in all its messy, beautiful glory!