Sensual ambivalent is a stance that describes mixed or complicated feelings toward sensual interaction. Sensual interaction can include physical closeness, touching, cuddling, or other forms of non sexual intimacy. People who identify as sensual ambivalent may sometimes enjoy these activities, while at other times they may feel uncomfortable, uncertain, or conflicted about them.
This stance is one of several within the broader system of sensual stances, which are terms created to describe how people relate to touch and physical closeness. The stance is most often used by people on the asensual spectrum, though anyone may find it useful if their feelings toward touch are complicated. Unlike a clear preference such as sensual favorable or sensual repulsed, sensual ambivalent highlights the in between space where comfort and discomfort exist side by side.
The term was first documented by community members online, including contributors under the names Arco pluris and Anonymous Hermit Crab. It has since been used in LGBTQIA+ spaces to help people explain their personal boundaries and their changing relationship with physical closeness. For many, it offers a way to claim agency over how and when they want to engage in touch.
Jordan liked hugging friends sometimes, especially after a long time apart. At other times the idea of hugging felt overwhelming, and they avoided it. When people reached out for casual touch, Jordan often froze, unsure of what they wanted. They did not feel entirely opposed to physical closeness, but they could not say they enjoyed it all the time either.
Reading about sensual ambivalent gave Jordan language for their experience. It explained why they felt both drawn to and hesitant about touch. By using the term, Jordan could tell friends that their comfort with closeness was complicated and not always predictable. This made their boundaries clearer, and it helped them feel more at ease knowing there was nothing wrong with having mixed feelings about touch.
Source
https://new.lgbtqia.wiki/wiki/sensual_ambivalent