Beyond the Mat: Celebrating 5 Types of Love
- Kelsey Fife Duarte
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
February often brings to mind red roses and romantic dinners. But love, much like a yoga practice, takes many shapes from the self-compassion you find during Savasana to the supportive energy of a shared class. This Valentine's Day, why not explore the varied forms of love that fill your life?
The Many Faces of Love You Experience Every Day
Love is a collection of experiences that enrich your life, much like a well-rounded yoga practice:
Self-love: The foundation of all love, where you treat yourself with kindness and respect.
Friendship love: The joyful, supportive bond you share with close friends.
Family love: The deep, rooted connection that keeps you grounded like in Mountain Pose.
Romantic love: The passionate, intimate connection often celebrated on special occasions.
Unconditional love: The love of all things, at all times, for no reason other than to exude love.
Each type of love plays a unique role in your well-being and happiness. When you nurture these different loves, you build a more balanced and fulfilling life.
5 Greek Types of Love and What They Mean to You
The ancient Greeks had five words to describe different kinds of love, helping us understand the nuances beyond just romance.
1. Philautia : The Love of Self
You cannot pour from an empty cup. Self love isn't selfish; it’s the prerequisite for all other types of connection.
To nurture self love
Consider practicing affirmations of gratitude
I am grateful that I always have, all I need, for the next step in my journey
Engaging in activities that bring you joy
Hiking the Colorado National Monument, anything Downtown GJ like First Friday art walk, or taking the time to draw up a bath.
Setting aside time for your future self
This can include anything from reading a book to enjoying painting, or maybe pursuing a new hobby. The more creative, the better!
2. Philia : The Love of Deep Friendship
Philia is the love we feel for our "person" the one who knows our coffee order and our worst jokes. It’s built on trust, shared experiences, and mutual respect.
To nurture this love, make time for regular catch-ups, engage in shared activities, or simply express appreciation for your friends. Small gestures, like sending a thoughtful message or planning a fun outing, can strengthen these bonds.
3. Eros : The Love of Romance & Passion
Eros represents the spark of desire; it embodies the yearning to be close, intimate, and truly see one another. This form of love encompasses both the physical and emotional pull that draws couples together.
To nurture romantic love, prioritize quality time together, explore new experiences, and communicate openly about desires and feelings. Date nights, surprise gestures, or even simple acts of affection can reignite that spark.
4. Pragma : The Love of Long-Term Commitment
This is everlasting love. It’s the choice to keep showing up, day after day, year after year. It’s the patience and the compromise that builds a life together.
To nurture pragma, focus on shared goals and values, practice patience, and engage in open communication. You must regularly check in with yourself and your loved ones, talk about your relationship and make plans for the future to reinforce your commitment.
5. Agape : Unconditional Love
Agape is often considered the highest form of love. It is selfless, unconditional, and expansive. It’s the love we feel for everything around us, abundance, and the shared human experience. This is the most controversial love, in that it requires us to love all, even our perceived enemies.
To nurture agape, engage in acts of service, volunteer in your community, or practice empathy towards others. Small acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbor or supporting a local charity, can foster this expansive love.
Understanding these five LOVE types helps you appreciate the full spectrum of love in your life. You can honor each type in different ways, enhancing your connections and overall happiness. It’s a vibrant, living force that shows up in many ways. Embrace the full spectrum of love in your life, and let it guide you to deeper connection and joy.
Love and Kindness Meditation Practice:
Take a comfortable breath. Let your body settle.
First — Yourself
Silently say: May I be happy.
May I be healthy. May I be at ease.
Second — Loved Ones
Bring to mind someone you love. May you be happy.
May you be healthy. May you be at ease.
Third — Acquaintances
Think of someone you know casually. May you be happy.
May you be healthy. May you be at ease.
Fourth — Difficult People (if able)
Bring to mind someone who challenges you. Without forcing, say: May you be happy.
May you be healthy. May you be at ease.
Fifth — All Beings
Expand outward. May all beings be happy. May all beings be healthy.
May all beings be at ease.
Last — All Material Things in Your Life
Your home, tools, resources. May all that supports my life be cared for and cared for wisely.
Take one final breath.
Gently return.
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