Ahead, experts break down what orbiting in dating actually means, why people do it, and what to do when someone just won’t leave your (digital) life. As Heller puts it, this creates “psychological closeness without relational engagement.” Before tapping through their Stories for the 47th time, consider what you’re actually hoping to get out of it. Is Your Ex Orbiting You? As Heller puts it, “Boundaries aren’t about punishing another person; they’re about protecting your own emotional well-being,” orbiters be damned.