Arguably one of the most basic forms of communication, giving and receiving affectionate communication, can promote health. It can trigger hormones that regulate stress, is positively associated with mental health and inversely associated with depression, and can quicken recovery from stressful events. Thus, affectionate communication can enhance one's overall functioning in positive ways. These benefits are particularly salient when individuals deal with stressful or traumatic situations such as serious illness. Because of these positive benefits, healthcare providers should direct patients and their families to give and receive more affectionate communication. This paper presents an activity which allows students to create their own examples of affectionate expression by placing them in one of two roles: that of the healthcare provider who works with patients in a physical rehabilitation center, or that of a family member whose loved one is in a physical rehabilitation center. This activity makes use of Morman and Floyd's three dimensions of affectionate communication: verbal, nonverbal, and supportive communication. A list of references and suggested readings is included.