One of the biggest benefits of a long-term partnership is the intimacy you feel with one another. It builds over time as you grow both individually and as a couple. Sometimes, people confuse sex with intimacy, however, there are plenty of ways to be intimate with your partner outside the bedroom.
But what happens if you feel that little spark of intimacy fading? How can you rekindle it? There are plenty of ways you can practice being more intimate with your partner. Keep reading to learn more.
What is intimacy?
Before diving in to explore new ways to practice intimacy, let’s first discuss what intimacy truly is. In short, intimacy is the feeling of closeness to another person. It is cultivated through honesty, shared experiences, and vulnerability.
Intimacy does not only apply to romantic relationships. In fact, there are four different types of intimacy. In no particular order, these include:
- Physical
- Emotional
- Intellectual or mental
- Spiritual
Ideally, in a romantic relationship, you will be able to feel all four types of intimacy. Try implementing a few of the following to foster a stronger sense of intimacy with your partner.
Try something new together
As comfortable as a daily routine can feel, it becomes just that: comfortable. Trying a new activity is a great way to reignite that spark and work on intimacy with your partner.
Depending on what activity you do, you can work on any of the main four types! Learning a new skill in something like a cooking class can help develop intellectual intimacy, while practicing yoga can help with spiritual intimacy.
Plan a standing date night
If you and your partner live together with children (or even alone!) you may become used to seeing in the same environment every night. Your weekend evening dates may look very similar: takeout, a movie on the couch, and bed by 11 p.m.
Consider penciling in a standing date night every month. You and your partners can take turns scheduling the date itself! It does not need to be something fancy, a simple picnic at the park would work. But by putting in the effort to plan special time with one another, it shows that you care about your partner and your relationship.
Appreciate the small things
A small gesture of love can go a very long way if you take the time to appreciate it. A sweet note on the bathroom mirror or a cup of coffee in the morning can be your partner’s way of saying “I love you.” Be sure to acknowledge it and not overlook it! Once you begin appreciating everything your partner does, you will begin to realize just how much they mean to you.
Practice telling the truth
Honesty is one of the hallmarks of intimacy. It is hard to feel close to your partner when there are barriers between you. Even if it hurts, you should always prioritize being truthful with your partner. Being open and honest will also help build your communication standards, which will bring you closer together.
Be sure to make time for your own life
When it comes to working on intimacy, you may think that your relationship should be your only focus. However, neglecting your personal needs will not make you a better partner, in fact, it will do the opposite. If you ignore your individual needs, you will rely on your partner to satisfy them, which is an unfair ask. Be sure you are filling your own cup as well.
Seeking a trained professional for couples counseling is always a great idea when it comes to maintaining or building relationship health. If you are looking for someone to help guide you toward the path to a stronger, more intimate relationship, look no further. Reach out to schedule an appointment today for marriage counseling.