Touch conveys subtle emotions.

The simplest touch from a romantic partner can mean something totally different during a tough dinner with the in-laws versus an afternoon stroll together. Turns out, it’s not just context.

In this study, researchers compared how effectively romantic couples and strangers communicate emotions with touch. Participants sat at opposite sides of a table, separated by a black curtain. The “touchers” were asked to express a particular emotion with one of four gestures—squeeze, shake, stroke or pat. The people being touched then chose one of 12 emotions they thought was conveyed.

Results favored the couples: Both strangers and couples effectively communicated universal emotions (anger, disgust and fear) and prosocial emotions (gratitude, love and sympathy), but only couples understood more subtle, self-focused emotions (embarrassment, envy and pride). Looks like couples really do have a private language!

We knew touch was powerful, but who knew a simple touch could communicate so much? In fact, a loved one’s touch may also lower stress levels. Stress affects your beauty from all angles—hair, skin, waistline, happiness and more—so we’re in favor of anything that brings it down. Not to mention that effectively communicating and understanding emotions helps improve life satisfaction. The next time you’re snuggling on the couch or holding hands, think of it as a beauty treatment—for yourself and your relationship.