Sexual intimacy is only one way of being intimately connected to your partner. Intimacy occurs in many forms, not just with sexual intercourse. Our levels of intimacy strengthen and evolve as our relationships grow & we have more experiences with one another. A level of trust is developed and reinforced, as couples continue to open up and become confidants for each other.
Non-sexual intimacy is possibly more important than sexual intimacy in the framework of a long-term relationship. Although couples can remain sexually active well into their senior years and this connection reinforces intimacy, non-sexual forms of intimacy are far more important in building and maintaining healthy long-term relationships. Sharing activities that have meaning for both of you, helps to reinforce your bond. Whether the shared activity is an appreciation of certain music or a particular hobby, these commonalities create intimacy between the two of you. A favorite restaurant where you fell in love, or they proposed, or you shared confidential information; these things create intimacy within the relationship.
Challenges that we face in our relationships that occur naturally with the passing of time and aging, strengthen our bonds and make the connection stronger, more treasured and even closer. Look for ways to nurture non-sexual intimacy within your relationship by taking an interest in those things that are of interest to your partner. Do things for them that show you not only love but deeply care for them. These things don’t have to be financially based but built around giving of your time, your energies and your thoughts.
