What Is Love? 8 Different Types Of Love

Love happens to be one of the strongest emotions in the world. This makes us laugh and have some hope, they make us feel safe and needed at the same time. It is not only in romantic relationship that we encounter love but also within friendship, family, or in the manner in which we prove love towards ourselves. All people, including little children and adults, require love to develop, become happy and remain firm within. What we experience in our everyday life is various types of love. We love our parents, friends, teachers, partners, and sometimes even our pets! But did you know that there are 8 types of love which assists in understanding how we associate with others differently?

This post will assist you in knowing what love is and the various classifications of love- such as self-love, romantic love, and friendly love among others. These are unique and each has a significant contribution in our life. Love is an emotion characterized by passion, intimacy, desire, and commitment. Love motivates us, validates our self-esteem, and eases our feelings of loneliness.

Types Of Love

1. Philia – Affectionate: This type is usually formed between friends or family members. In this relationship, both parties share the same values and mutual respect for each other. 
2. Pragma – Enduring: This is a unique bond between a couple that matures over many years. The couple chooses to put equal effort into their relationship. They both choose to work on their relationship with their partner forever.
3. Storge – Familiar: This is a naturally occurring phenomenon between parents and children or even best friends. It’s a deep emotional connection based on acceptance. 
4. Eros – Romantic: This form is a natural instinct for most people. It’s passionate and often displayed with physical affection. 
5. Ludus – Playful: This form occurs at the beginning stage of the relationship. It consists of teasing, being playful, and smiling between two people. 
6. Mania – Obsessive: This form is characterized by obsession and jealousy towards their partner. The imbalance of Eros and Ludus is usually the main cause of mania. 
7. Philautia – Self-love: This form is characterized by understanding one’s self-worth without ignoring their personal needs. It begins by acknowledging one’s own responsibility for their well being. 
8. Agape – Selfless: This form is the highest level of love. It is given without expecting anything in return. It allows an individual to spread love in any circumstance. In this case, the individual dedicates their life to improving the lives of others.

Love is a big part of our lives. It makes us cheerful, secure and connected. When we love our family and friends, when we love a partner or even ourselves-that is a special kind of love that is appreciated. The knowledge of the fact that there are 8 kinds of love results in improved orgnizing our emotions. Another effect of it is that we become more careful and respectful of other people. Love is not just a feeling; it’s an action. When we forgive, listen and are good we are sharing love. It would be a good thing in the world, that kind, honest, true and real love. Why then does not one make a conscious and everyday decision to love healthily?

Wait a minute and ask yourself: What sort of love do you share out most of the time? And which one do you want to grow?