A now widespread form of partnership is virtual love. This means that the partners do not meet in person for an extended period—several months or even years—but communicate only online via WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, and similar platforms.
A smaller portion of people only talk to each other, with no desire to see one another—hearing the other’s voice is enough to develop feelings. More rarely, couples even maintain a purely written relationship. Virtual love is somewhat similar to what was once called platonic love. These virtual partnerships sometimes function better than real-life relationships.
Why? Everyday life together is often a love killer—after the initial high, couples find themselves in a world full of trivialities. Many people, especially women, struggle to allow themselves to be loved. Doubts, self-criticism, and blame arise, putting a strain on harmony. However, when a relationship exists only in the virtual space, one often develops the feeling of being loved more quickly. This can even support the development or strengthening of self-love. As is well known, we tend to love ourselves more when we feel loved.
Fair enough—but what about sexuality? There are many modes I've encountered in my practice. Some couples establish a commitment that allows for lovers or affairs on the side. Others engage in mutual masturbation via FaceTime, Skype, etc., where they can see and stimulate each other. Still others address the issue through solo masturbation, but with their thoughts focused primarily on their partner. Erotic or sexually charged pictures or videos are often exchanged to stimulate the imagination.
It is an exciting way, in today’s world, to experience love, emotional closeness, and even sexuality purely virtually.
