Photo: Emerson Lemus / Pexels
Cover Photo: Emerson Lemus / Pexels
Photo: Emerson Lemus / Pexels

Love takes a myriad of forms. Aside from the five main ones, it's evolved into something more

Love has always been part of our lives. Whether romantic or platonic—everyone feels and experiences it. Expressing affection through words, offering undivided attention, feeling love through touch, doing nice things for loved ones, or even giving gifts: these five primary love languages of Dr Gary Chapman are what we were told from the beginning. But the feeling has evolved through time, with different and more specific ways now to love and be loved.

See also: 5 Love Languages For Couples: How To Show Appreciation The Right Way

Collating opinions from people online, below are just a few of modern-day's love languages:

The act of forgiving

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Photo: Ketut Subiyanto / Pexels
Above Photo: Ketut Subiyanto / Pexels
Photo: Ketut Subiyanto / Pexels

To err is human. To forgive is divine.

The hardest thing to do is to forgive, especially if it’s towards someone we trusted the most. But according to psychiatrist Abigail Brenner, forgiving someone lets us forgive ourselves too. It frees us. It won’t make us forget the pain but rather give us peace. Forgiving allows us to restore our respect for each other in the past.

Respecting the bubble

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Photo: Jack Sparrow / Pexels
Above Photo: Jack Sparrow / Pexels
Photo: Jack Sparrow / Pexels

Do not break the bubble.

Respecting this bubble—one's personal space—gives a person the opportunity to breathe, recharge and grow.

According to content creator Steve Brisendine, disrespecting one’s personal space can cause resentment, fear or anger. A perceived threat or challenge is enough to trigger a "fight, flight or freeze" response in the brain. In turn, the chance for rational, productive discussion is gone until calmness is restored.

Remembering the little things

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Photo: Yaroslav Shuraev / Pexels
Above Photo: Yaroslav Shuraev / Pexels
Photo: Yaroslav Shuraev / Pexels

A good indicator that a person cares is their ability to remember even the tiny things. Whether it may be a favourite dessert mentioned in passing or a colour a partner hates. Recalling these things and applying them in certain situations in the future can add plus points to your book. 

Capturing the moment

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Photo: Askar Abayev / Pexels
Above Photo: Askar Abayev / Pexels
Photo: Askar Abayev / Pexels

It is the age of technology. So definitely, taking photographs would enter the list. 

Documenting memories allows everyone to recall specific moments, however dramatic or humorous they may be. In fact, according to author Melissa Michaels, part of finding beauty in life is savouring the little moments. Most chapters in our lives are already stressful and busy. Looking back at memories would allow us to remember some of the warmest and loveliest of times—and can even bring us a momentary sense of relief. 

Mutual love for books

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Photo: Cottonbro Studio / Pexels
Above Photo: Cottonbro Studio / Pexels
Photo: Cottonbro Studio / Pexels

Bookworms would agree that books can be a love language!

Exchanging books, giving out opinions and reviews, and even travelling to different libraries: anything book-related warrants love and attention from some people. The act, for example, of reading little footnotes or comments on pages brings a sense of warmth as they take the time to read what we love. 

Inviting people regardless of their response

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Photo: Kindel Media / Pexels
Above Photo: Kindel Media / Pexels
Photo: Kindel Media / Pexels

Others have expressed their delight in being remembered during gatherings, even in friendships. When one takes the time to still offer us an invitation despite implying that we do not want to go, it's flattering and brings a sense of belonging. This is clear proof of their love and regard for our feelings and well-being. 

Something for the night owls

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Photo: Brett Sayles / Pexels
Above Photo: Brett Sayles / Pexels
Photo: Brett Sayles / Pexels

A lot of people have difficulty sleeping. Hence, most of us spend time with our loved ones during these godly hours. Shared passion or interest would usually do the trick, such as watching a series or movies or even taking late-night walks.

There's something about the quietness of the night and moon that makes you treasure the moment. Sharing solitude over the moonlight is a testimony of your love. 

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Angela Nicole Guiral
Digital Editor, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is the assistant digital editor of Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.