When you think about intimacy, you may automatically think of sex and romance. But the term can actually be used to describe any relationship that brings you closeness and a sense of interconnectedness, whether it’s a romantic relationship, friendship, or family bond. Intimacy is important to a happy life, and it can be found in all types of relationships. intimcity

The Benefits of Intimacy

Intimate relationships have been shown to bring a wide variety of health benefits, from better healing after surgery to lower stress levels and even a longer lifespan. They’re also associated with higher self-esteem and happiness, particularly in people who struggle with depression and anxiety. Intimacy helps reduce feelings of loneliness in older adults, as well. This is likely because when a person feels lonely, it can activate the fight-or-flight response, which consumes energy and causes exhaustion. By building intimacy, a person can reduce this activation and reenergize themselves.

Physical intimacy is also a key aspect of a healthy relationship. Touching, cuddling, and kissing can boost oxytocin levels in the brain, which makes you feel good. This kind of intimate behavior can help build trust and a sense of safety, which are both needed for healthy relationships. Experiential intimacy can also be found in non-romantic activities, like watching a movie together or playing a board game.

Emotional intimacy is one of the most important parts of a relationship, as it allows you to share your truest feelings with another person. Sharing emotional vulnerability can be difficult, but it’s vital to a happy and fulfilling relationship. If you’re not able to express your emotions, you’ll never be able to truly know the other person.

Mental intimacy is the ability to discuss ideas and opinions and understand the other person’s perspective. This can be difficult, especially if there are differences in opinion or background. However, being able to discuss your ideas with the person you love can help you grow closer to them.

Building intimacy takes time and effort, but it’s an important part of a happy, healthy life. If you’re struggling to create a stronger connection, it may be worth seeking a professional’s advice. Seeing an individual or couples counselor can help you gain new insight into your relationship and work through intimacy issues. Check out BetterHelp’s Therapist Finder to find the right therapist for you. Get started with a brief questionnaire and be matched within 48 hours. Plus, enjoy an exclusive 20% off your first month!