8 Touches That Will Tell Him Everything

1) When you want to let him know he's awesome - Pat him on the butt

To guys, the butt pat is a nonverbal way of saying "You're the man." Growing up, men are taught that this gesture communicates admiration and support. Just watch a game of any team sport and you'll see athletes and coaches use it repeatedly after a big play is made. That's why when you touch him that way, he immediately interprets it as a signal of approval.

2) When you need to say "I'm sorry" - Reach over and squeeze his knee (while you are both sitting)

Touching his knee as you apologize makes him feel connected to you, so he's more receptive to what you're trying to say. The knee is you go-to spot because it's neutral territory. It's not as invasive as touching his face or arm would be, so he won't recoil if he's upset. Plus, when you extend your arm to touch his knee, your body has to bend forward slightly. This is a submissive posture that subconsciously signals to his brain that you are genuinely contrite and would like his forgiveness.

3) When he's bummed out - Lightly scratch his neck along the hairline

It's the ultimate soother for two reasons. First, raking your fingers through his hair taps in to primitive grooming instincts. Preening is a universal care taking gesture that everything from birds to primates to humans use to show affection. It's a nurturing move that makes him feel safe and more calm. Second, the trapezius muscle (a large back muscle) extends up through his neck. This area is is where we tend to carry the bulk of stress in our bodies. Stroking this muscle helps him relax just as a massage would.

4) When you want to get him to do something he doesn't want to do - Grasp his hands and coax them into prayer position, then position your hands over his

Arranging his hands as if you're praying projects power and control. And by placing his hands between yours, you're subconsciously signaling to him that you're the dominant one in this scenario. As a result, your words become more persuasive to him, though he won't know why.

5) When you want to let him know you're turned on - Put your hand on the top of his inner thigh

This move isn't effective just because it's super close to his package. The upper part of his inner thigh is a sensitive area on its own. It's loaded with nerve endings that connect to his genitals. Plus, the skin in this region is more tender since it's the part of the thigh that generally has the least amount of muscle.

6) When he's angry and you need to defuse a fight - Place your hand on top of his shoulder, keeping a straight elbow

This is like hitting the pause button on his brain during an argument. While the motion is firm - keeping your arm straight carries more power and commands attention. The comforting contact will help to calm down your guy. The shoulder is an ideal spot to touch in a moment like this, since its well protected with muscle and less sensitive, as opposed to more vulnerable places, like his face and neck. Your touch will bring him out of the heat of the moment and remind him of your bond, taking his anger down a notch. The key, though, is to use this move just as a fight is beginning and his heated emotions are still at a simmer and not a full boil.

7) When you're not really "fine" - Reach out to him, palms up, and slip your hands under his

Putting your hands out, upturned, signals an appeal for help. This gesture has long been associated in society with begging, so he will unconsciously interpret it as your asking for a boost from him. And when you grasp your partner's hands with his on top of yours, you're subtly emphasizing that you need for him to give that support to you. It's like fishing for reassurance without having to verbalize it. Since his hands cover yours, he assumes the dominant role, triggering him to take care of you.

8) When you want to say "I love you" - Hold his face with a hand on each of his cheeks

A guy's face is extra sensitive - even after he has shaved, his scruff has special tactile sensors that wrap around the hair follicle. A higher number of follicles makes a man's face more sensitive than a woman's. That makes this a great spot to take advantage of, since a woman's skin is usually more delicate than a man's. Plus, the hands-on-your-lovers cheeks gesture is interpreted as especially romantic. The face is one of the most emotionally intimate spots on the body, so holding his closely communicates the deep bond you feel with him.