Six Types of Pleasure
Taking time to do things we enjoy can help prevent burnout and promote a sense of balance in our lives. Having pleasure breaks throughout the day can boost mood and lower stress.
People tend to first think of sex when they hear the word “pleasure” but pleasure comes in many forms. Others may believe that pleasure comes only from luxurious experiences, and it can, but some of the best sources of pleasure are free.
What would happen if you built a variety of pleasure breaks into your day? Science has found that our bodies are wired for pleasure. However, many people treat pleasure as a reward to have only after everything else is done. Joy and pleasure are essential for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Experiment with different forms of pleasure and see what happens if pleasure becomes part of your day instead of a reward. Here are different forms of pleasure and some examples to try:
Physical: This type of pleasure comes from the senses. Some examples include a mug of a favorite coffee or tea, a warm shower or bath, movement, a hug from a friend or loved one, playing with a pet, or a relaxing massage.
Intellectual: Intellectual pleasure could include solving a puzzle or playing a game, reading a book (a great novel or exploring a new subject through nonfiction), or learning a new skill by taking a course, attending a lecture, or exploring on your own. The act of learning can promote a sense of curiosity and discovery.
Creative: Self-expression through creative activities like writing, painting, or music can activate the pleasure centers of the brain. Creative endeavors can also be a way to connect with others that share similar interests or passions. Participating in a writing group, joining a choir, or attending an art class can provide a sense of community and camaraderie.
Beauty: Pleasure from beauty can come from viewing works of art such as paintings, sculptures, or other forms of visual art, listening to music, and spending time in natural environments like gardens, forests, beaches, or mountains. There are countless ways to experience this type of pleasure.
Spiritual Connection: Forms of pleasure that involve spiritual connection include meditation and mindfulness practices, prayer and worship, acts of service and kindness, connecting with nature, and engaging in creative pursuits. Spiritual pleasure comes from a sense of connection to something larger than ourselves, such as nature, a higher power, or a sense of purpose. This type of pleasure can be a potent source of fulfillment.
Emotional: One of the most powerful sources of emotional pleasure is love and connection with others, whether it’s a romantic partner, family member, or close friend. Experiencing positive feelings such as joy, excitement, and gratitude can also be good sources of emotional pleasure. Whether it’s the rush of excitement from trying something new, the warmth of gratitude for a kind gesture, or the simple pleasure of enjoying a beautiful day, positive emotions can bring a sense of pleasure and contentment.
Adding pleasure may feel self-indulgent but it’s not because pleasure is an important part of overall well-being. In fact, prioritizing pleasure and self-care can create more resilience and the ability to better cope with the challenges of daily life.