ABSTRACT
Of all the senses, touch is the first to develop; it is the most essential to life and a requirement for normal development. Interpersonal touch, including sexual touch, is also the most controversial of the senses, perceived by some as uncomfortable or threatening, and by others as the epitome of sublime pleasure and connection with a partner. An extraordinary and basic way sex therapists can enrich the sexual connection between couples is to introduce caressing exercises that are not goal focused on arousal and orgasm. Caressing exercises assist couples in moving beyond any negative or ambivalent attitudes toward partnered touch, often bringing them to levels of sensual awareness and tactile pleasure that are new and delightful.
