You may have experienced a tender moment of intimacy gazing into your lover’s eyes over a romantic dinner or perhaps cuddling in bed as they hold you tightly. As sweet as those moments are, they can be like a drug — they’re often fleeting and leave you craving more. But these momentary connections that arise from a specific situation aren’t lasting. You need longevity for a marriage or relationship to thrive, and you can accomplish that in a few ways. Here are six ways to create genuine and long-lasting intimacy.
1. Express yourself clearly and speak your mind
It may be tempting to censor yourself if you’re concerned about how your partner will react to something. But this will only snowball into more misunderstandings, and you’ll never really feel like you’re being heard. Being authentic and keeping things real with the other person is the first step to lasting intimacy. Research shows that letting your partner see the real you is key to communicating and being satisfied in a marriage. It also creates a safer space, where they’ll feel comfortable telling you anything as well.
2. Even though it’s hard, be vulnerable
Opening yourself up to someone can be a tough and sometimes painful process. But intimacy isn’t pretty all the time. Letting people in can be a difficult and emotional undertaking, and it’s not easy. Another study shows that vulnerability is empowering in relationships, so the next time you feel hurt with your partner, don’t shut down and give them the silent treatment. Dig deep into those emotions and share them with your partner, it will only make you closer.
