What does skinship mean?

Skinship - is a term that comes from Japanese culture and is used to describe the closeness and physical contact between people, which is considered natural and important for relationships. Skinship is a portmanteau formed from the English words "skin" and "kinship," emphasizing the significance of touch in forming and maintaining emotional bonds between people. In Japanese society, where great attention is usually paid to personal space, skinship can manifest in the form of hugs, pats on the shoulder, or holding hands, which helps express support, warmth, and trust. The term skinship appears in the book "The Amazing World of Hayao Miyazaki" by Susan Napier to describe relationships with mothers.