Introduction
Intimacy is a vital part of a wholesome marriage, but busy schedules, life stresses, and courting issues can, without difficulty, cause intimacy to wane over time. However, prioritizing intimacy is vital for preserving emotional and physical closeness between spouses. You can re-ignite passion and closeness with verbal exchange, effort, and techniques tailor-made for your courting. This article will explore 9 powerful approaches married couples can bring intimacy again, supported by studies and professional advice.
Table: Statistics on Intimacy and Relationships
Fact | Source |
---|---|
56% of married couples wish they had more intimacy in their relationship. | 2017 Marriage.com Survey |
73% of couples report feeling emotionally disconnected from their spouse. | 2017 5 Love Languages Survey |
Lack of quality time together is the #1 reason cited for less intimacy. | 2017 Association of Marriage and Family Therapists Survey |
Two-thirds of married individuals report being “very satisfied” with their sex lives. However, this number drops for couples married over 20 years. | 2017 National Health and Social Life Survey |
Regular intimacy (e.g. kissing) is linked to increased relationship satisfaction and long-term stability. | Multiple studies from The National Marriage Project |
Make Time for Romance
One of the top intimacy killers is a hectic agenda that leaves no time for each other. Make romantic connection a concern via scheduling ordinary dates, prioritizing couple time, and restricting distractions. Ask spouses what activities they find intimate – it could be something as simple as:
- Curling up together to watch your favourite TV shows without phones
- Cooking dinner together and eating by candlelight
- Going for long walks and talking while holding hands
- Spontaneous hugs and kisses throughout the day
The goal is quality time to reconnect emotionally through relaxed fun together. Schedule intimate activities weekly if possible, and help each other stick to it.
Rekindle Your Physical Intimacy
Taking the pressure off sex and focusing on intimacy, closeness, and fun can help overcome performance anxiety or feeling self-conscious. Try reconnecting physically in a low-key, romantic way by:
- Light massages are just for pleasure, not as a precursor to sex
- Sharing a relaxing bath and washing each other
- Slow dancing while kissing in your living room
- Little romantic gestures like leaving love notes/treats to find
Go at your own pace without expectations. Let initial intimacy sessions aim to enjoy each other’s company rather than pursue some “goal.” Comfort will come with reduced pressure over time.
Communicate Openly About Intimacy
Many couples stop truly communicating about what brings them joy, pleasure, and intimacy. However, understanding each other’s desires, love languages, and emotional/physical needs is so important to have a fulfilling, intimate life long-term. Set aside time to:
- Discuss how you each currently experience intimacy on deeper levels
- Express what you find intimacy-building – acts of service? Words of affirmation? Physical touch?
- Share if any needs aren’t being fully met and how your partner can better support you
- Ask about likes/dislikes in the bedroom without judgment to better please each other
With understanding and cooperation, both spouses can feel heard, valued, and satisfied intimately. Keep the dialogue flowing over time.
Give and Receive Affection Freely
Beyond the bedroom, day-to-day non-sexual affection strengthens bonds and fuels desire. Studies show couples who express more affection through:
- Holding hands
- Kissing hello/goodbye
- Hugging for longer periods
- Complimenting each other sincerely
Report higher satisfaction and more frequent intimacy overall. Make affection a daily habit—a quick kiss or hug can turn into a more passionate embrace, given the right mood and mindset. Little acts of tenderness go a long way.
Focus on Fun and Laughter Together
While stress and life’s challenges are inevitable, finding humour and playfulness as a couple provides relief. Laughter releases feel-good hormones that also make you more attractive to your partner. Find ways to have fun and bond through:
- Inside jokes and silly pet names
- Dance parties in your living room
- Competitive but silly board games
- Looking at old photos together and reminiscing
- Watching comedy shows you both enjoy
Having fun makes you more lighthearted and better able to cope with difficulties as a team. Prioritizing laughter strengthens intimacy and passion.
Renew Your Romantic Bond
Expressing fondness and attraction lays the groundwork for closeness. Try romantic gestures like:
- Love letters where you pour out your heart
- Homemade coupons for back rubs, cooking a meal, etc.
- Photo frames with your favourite memories together
- Mix CDs/playlists of songs that remind you of your relationship
- Surprise picnic or stargazing dates
Creative sparks of romance awaken emotions and rekindle that “new love feeling.” Even small romantic gestures remind your spouse why you fell in love and strengthen your intimate life.
Appreciate Each Other Daily
Focusing on the positives helps overcome issues that distance partners. Make it a goal to express sincere thanks and admiration by:
- Noticing and acknowledging helpful things your spouse does
- Complimenting their appearance, talents, personality traits you love
- Writing little thank-you notes for random acts of kindness
- Giving frequent hugs, kisses, or back rubs just because
- Telling what you find attractive about them physically and emotionally
Expressing appreciation satisfies emotional needs and boosts confidence – fueling passion. Couples who do this report closer intimacy over time.
Treat Yourself and Partner Well
Looking and feeling your best increases self-esteem and attractiveness to your spouse. Make small lifestyle changes by:
- Exercising together to relieve stress and keep chemistry alive
- Cooking healthier, romantic meals on dates at home
- Prioritizing enough rest so you have energy for intimacy
- Limiting distractions like tech/screens an hour before bed
- Wearing flattering clothes/lingerie that elevate your confidence
Taking care of your mind and body will translate to deeper fulfillment intimately as endorphins improve mood and well-being for both of you.
Seek Counseling If Needed
If efforts aren’t working, don’t give up – seek help from a marriage counsellor. They provide tools to:
- Uncover subtle relationship issues hampering intimacy
- Improve communication skills needed to tackle problems together
- Role-play intimate scenarios to gain comfort and boost confidence
- Suggest exercises to express affection, understand your partner fully
- Give objective perspective and advice when emotions run high
With professional guidance and commitment from both spouses, intimacy can almost always be rekindled. A healthy relationship is worth continual effort.
Conclusion
Prioritizing intimacy takes mindfulness, creativity, and effort. But strengthening emotional and physical closeness benefits your relationship immensely. With understanding, communication, daily affection, and tailored strategies, you can bring passion back. Staying committed through both good and challenging times will keep your marital bond and intimacy thriving for life.