Having a strong bond with someone can be fun and can be good for your mental health. The bond of relationship is not only with a partner, but can also be with friends or family.
Speaking of relationships, have you ever heard of the term platonic relationship? Platonic relationship comes from the idea of the philosopher Plato. In today's era, the term close friend is one example of the depiction of a platonic relationship.
A platonic relationship does not emphasize a romantic relationship, but can be a friendly relationship. So, this platonic relationship does not only apply to friends of the opposite sex, but can also apply to same-sex friendships.
Curious about how the concept of a platonic relationship is considered to reduce stress? Come on, see the discussion below!
Platonic Relationship Type
Quoted from Very Well Mind, there are several terms that can describe several types of platonic relationships, including:
Bromance, a term used to describe a close and intimate non-sexual relationship between two men. Bromance can be formed because they have the same hobbies or other similar activities that encourage them to spend time together.
Womance, the term used to describe the emotional, non-sexual, non-romantic bond between two women. This is because women are more likely to want to have friends to share their complaints with.
Work Spouse, describes a close non-sexual relationship between co-workers. Similar interests and intense interactions can build a platonic relationship.
Signs of Platonic Relationship
There are several signs or characteristics that distinguish a platonic relationship from other types of relationships. Apart from not leading to the sexual aspect, platonic relationships also tend to be characterized by:
Closeness: Both people feel close to each other and feel that they have something in common.
Honesty: Both people feel that they can share what they really think and feel with each other.
Acceptance: This relationship tends to feel easy and comfortable. Both people feel that they are safe and free to be themselves.
Understanding: Having connections, acknowledging and respecting each other's personal space. They don't try to force other people to do things they don't want to do or become things they don't want to be.
Positive Effects of Platonic Relationship
Some of the positive effects of a platonic relationship are that it can reduce the risk of various diseases, increase immunity, and reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. This is due to the support and love from the closest people.
Having a strong platonic relationship can also help a person cope better with stress. This relationship plays a role in helping a person become more resilient to face life's challenges.
If you want to have this close relationship, the main thing is to be open and honest with yourself and others. That way, any relationship can run well.