When we talk about physical intimacy, the one thing that pops into (most of) our heads is sex. But that’s not what we’re asking here. We’re wondering how important physical intimacy is in a relationship. Intimacy is defined as a close bond between humans, whether it be physical or emotional. Sure, sex can be included in intimacy, but that’s not the only form of physical intimacy.
Physical intimacy in a relationship
Physical intimacy in a relationship is important to most couples; however, not everyone requires the same type of intimacy and some need it more than others. Naturally, there are a lot of advantages to physical intimacy, such as:
- Intimacy builds trust between partners
- Improves intimacy outside the bedroom
- Raises morale
- Boosts your immune system
- Reduces stress
- Acts as an expression of love
- Increases relationship satisfaction
Physical intimacy can strengthen a couple and foster love, bonding, and affection between partners. However, it can also push partners to work through issues that they would normally avoid. All of this sounds fine and dandy, but the real question is: What is physical intimacy?
Physical intimacy is quite broad and can range from eye contact, hugging, kissing, cuddling, massage, and hand-holding, and of course, sex.
So yes, physical intimacy is important, but it can vary for every couple. Some couples need a strong sense of physical intimacy like cuddling and kissing but don’t need frequent sex. At the same time, other couples are more sexual and require sex more frequently as well as other forms of intimacy.
It’s normal for couples to research online and figure out what is ‘normal,’ but the thing is there is, no such thing as normal. We all want to be given a number or a stat to help us figure out what we’re doing, but it’s important to recognize that your relationship is unique. Every couple has their own needs for physical intimacy.
What happens if one partner is more physically intimate?
There’s a chance that one partner requires more physical intimacy than others. In that case, you two need to talk with each other and see how to meet each other’s needs as best as possible. However, as long as the emotional and physical intimacy exists between you two, there’s the desire to make things work.
Keeping intimacy important
Your relationship can survive without intimacy, but it’s best to find a happy-medium between you and your partner’s intimacy needs. This simply requires you two to put effort into working on your physical intimacy and making it a priority. Hold hands, cuddle on the couch, make those steps to become closer as a couple.
Being in a serious relationship takes a lot of work, work that no one really tells you beforehand. But if you want to make things work in your relationship, it’ll require you and your partner to take the steps to keeping your physical intimacy alive and thriving. So, get on the couch and start cuddling (maybe even slip in a couple kisses).