Apapacho: A Caress From The Soul To Create Emotional Intimacy

Apapacho is one of the most beautiful words in the world, because of the meaning it has acquired in recent years. The word “apapocho” is of Nahuatl origin, but this sentimental and emotional word has been incorporated into the Spanish language over the years.

The original word refers to the act of kneading, massaging or gently rubbing. Over time, it took on the meaning it has today: caressing the soul with pure emotion.

The emotional exchange involved in an apapacho

An apapacho is more than a hug. It’s a complex emotional bond, a kind of contact that’s more than just a hug.

The emotional openness we are talking about cannot be achieved with just anyone, because it takes time, effort and will to listen, feel, embrace and caress the soul.

In that sense, it is not surprising that it is often said that a good apapacho starts with yourself. Listening to, connecting with and understanding our emotional baggage requires self-reflection of our fears, conflicts, insecurities, achievements and wisdom.

Only when we can see and feel the armor we wear can we really expose this part of ourselves. But only when the time is right.

Wholeness through emotion

True attraction doesn’t need words or skin-to-skin contact. We need our emotions and feelings to speak the language of hugs from the heart.

Humans are emotional beings, who think through the language of emotions. It is only through this that we can experience real authentic bonds.

Problems disappear in seconds and despair melts away as we connect with something beyond time and space. In other words,  an “apapacho” works like a healing balm.

Feeling loved, one of the best feelings in the world

Knowing that you are loved is one of the best feelings you can experience. It is comforting, energizing and healing. Knowing that there is someone who really appreciates you is great. Love always helps us find the balance we crave in difficult times.

We could say that love works like a life jacket, something to keep you above the surface of the water so you can breathe. You could even say that our tires are without a doubt the psychological oxygen we need to breathe.

A nice definition of this concept can be found in a passage from Paul Auster’s novel Moon Palace . In it he perfectly describes what we feel when the love of others rescues us from the deep pit into which we have fallen and cannot escape:

Emotional openness

You could say that the people we are emotionally connected to help us take back control of our lives and better manage our feelings, thoughts and emotions.

As we mentioned above, we need to be present for this special kind of emotional openness. It can only be achieved through insight and complete honesty with oneself.

It is essential to caress and nourish the soul to stimulate emotional and social growth. In this way we can break through our fears and remind ourselves of the warmth of home. This intimate emotional exchange deserves a word as beautiful as “apapacho.”