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Definition of intimacy - Intimacy is defined as a feeling of being close and connected to someone in an interpersonal relationship. Intimacy allows people to bond on so many different levels, and is a needed component of healthy relationships.

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Importance of intimacy in relationships - True intimacy strengthens bonds and enhances connections in relationships. There are many types of intimacy and all are, arguably, equally important and contribute to an overall picture of happiness and fulfillment with a partner.

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Types of intimacy: Emotional - This often critical factor of a relationship is characterized by an ability and willingness to share your deepest, most personal feelings with someone else. People who share with one another are showing that they feel safe and secure enough to share and trust that they’ll be understood and affirmed.

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Physical intimacy -

Physical intimacy can help you and your partner cultivate feelings of closeness. Usually, when people think of physical intimacy, they think of things like kissing, holding hands, cuddling, and sex.

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Intellectual intimacy - This type of intimacy involves being able to share ideas, opinions, questions, and other types of thoughts with another individual. Of course, it’s unlikely you’ll agree on every single item, but being able to see another’s perspective is important.

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Experiential intimacy - Shared experiences are key for this type of intimacy. When couples spend time together and engage in activities, they are building memories and connection.

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Spiritual intimacy - Spiritual intimacy can refer to something religious, but usually it’s deeper and involves sharing beliefs and values. If you align on fundamental items, you’re likely to experience a deeper connection.

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Financial intimacy - While financial intimacy might not sound romantic at first, it can play an important role in the health of romantic relationships. It involves being vulnerable and opening up about your financial situation as well as goals, fears, and values about money.

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Signs of healthy intimacy: Increased sexual desire - Studies have shown that couples in long-term romantic relationships who experience more emotional intimacy also have higher levels of sexual desire and activity.

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Greater relationship satisfaction - Overall, intimate couples tend to be more satisfied with their current relationship and its trajectory.

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Better physical health - People who are in intimate relationships have been shown to have better physical well-being. In fact, according to one study, diet and exercise were positively impacted by intimacy and therefore the risk of chronic illness and death was lowered.

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Improved mental health - If you have a close, intimate relationship, it does wonders for your mental health. While being independent is great, humans also need social support. Having support and not feeling lonely positively impact mental health.

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Key factors to building an emotionally-intimate relationship: Knowing and liking yourself - Social scientists have suggested that the first step in a connection with others is a connection with yourself. The more you know and value yourself, the more you can do for others.

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Trusting and caring - With trust, intimate partners feel secure disclosing feelings that are not ridiculed, rejected, or dismissed. Additionally, when people care for one another they seek to help fulfill each other’s needs and wants.

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Honesty - Honesty in general is a key attribute of a caring partner with whom we can be intimate. Especially if you have a sexual relationship with someone you're intimate with, honesty about different partners or statuses is essential.

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Clear communication - Communication is a two-way street and both intimate partners must listen and speak in clear, concise ways to build trust and deepen relationships.

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Factors affecting intimacy -

Most anything can negatively impact intimacy. From life changes and stress to unrelated external influences, everyday life can get in the way of a happy, intimate partnership.

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Rekindling intimacy: Change your pattern of initiating sex - Its possible that you are either coming on too strong or maybe not strong enough. Physical intimacy is a fine balance. If you typically wait for your partner to initiate sex, try starting things yourself. Find ways to say “you’re sexy” even if it isn’t verbally.

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Hold hands more - Holding hands can release oxytocin and cause you to feel more calm. Physical contact also helps reduce the stress hormone cortisol. This can lead to feeling more connected to your partner.

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Allow tension to build - The brain experiences more pleasure and connection when it anticipates a reward for longer before it is actually received. Be sure to take your time and flirt and engage in foreplay before anything further.

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Carve out time to spend together - Try a variety of activities that connect you in different ways. From simply having fun to having sex and everything in between, spending purposeful and intentional time together will help you feel closer.

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The role of humor in intimacy - Laughter and playfulness can help enhance closeness and intimacy. Feeling calm and lighthearted helps us better connect with our partners. Don’t be afraid to crack a joke or add some humor to your relationship.

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Mindfulness practices for intimacy - Incorporating mindfulness can help you and your partner deepen connections. Putting away technology, focusing on one another, and really being in the moment will help you build intimacy.

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Expressing gratitude to strengthen intimacy - Believe it or not, a simple thank you can go a long way. Being grateful in your partnership and expressing it helps minimize the possibility of resentment and makes others feel valued and appreciated. This helps them be more willing to do kind things in the future.

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Intimacy check-ins - To maintain and even improve intimacy, it's essential to have regular check-ins to assess and nurture intimacy in your relationship. Create a safe space to discuss the intricacies of day-to-day life and how things intimately could be better or different.

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Date night ideas for rekindling intimacy: Hiking together - Hiking lets you spend uninterrupted time together out in nature. Grab your partner's hand and stroll through the forest or park. Enjoy catching up and spending one-on-one time together.

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Date ideas: Go dancing or take a dance class - Taking a dance class together is a great way to not only learn a new skill (a memory you two can share), but also gives you time to connect physically and intentionally, thereby enhancing the intimacy between you two.

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Date ideas: Cook together -

Cooking together can be fun, silly, and help build anticipation for what might come after. Be sure to focus on each other and have some lighthearted fun!

Sources: (Options for Sexual Health) (Verywell Mind) (Live Bold and Bloom) (The Gottman Institute)

See also: Surprising ways marriage can affect your health

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