The lines can be blurred at times, but you can have an intimate relationship without sex in reverse. Intimacy is more of an emotional connection than a physical connection. As relationships increase in length and [partners increase] in age, the frequency of intercourse may decrease, but intimacy may increase. But while sex and intimacy are different, they are interdependent. They go together. Some partners need to feel loved and cared for in order to be intimate, and some have sex to show love and care.
What are the different types of intimacy?
It is important to understand that there are four main types of intimacy:
- Physical, which means being in the same place at the same time and spending quality time together, like on a date night.
- Emotional intelligence, which means sharing feelings and thoughts and connecting on an emotional level.
- Sensual, meaning physical touch and pleasure and other forms of physical connection that do not involve sexual acts, such as touching and kissing.
- Sex, which includes rough or forceful sex, oral sex and other forms of sexual intercourse.
Everyone is different and we all seek these different types of relationships at different levels in our relationships.
Health Benefits of Intimacy: Less Stress, Better Sex
Social interaction, in all its forms, has various health benefits for the body and mind, experts say. Here's a look at some of the different ways intimacy can improve everyday life.
Intimacy helps you reduce stress and stay healthy
Chronic stress can cause many health problems, such as insomnia, body aches, high blood pressure, heart problems, weakened immune system, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease, among others. When you are constantly in fight or flight, you use up a lot of food that is necessary to stay healthy. Social interaction helps reduce stress and anxiety so your body can replenish itself and maintain a healthy immune system.
Intimacy combat loneliness and reduce the risk of dying
Social isolation is linked to increased morbidity and mortality, according to one study, while another study found that in addition to higher mortality, loneliness can also impair executive function, sleep and mental health. mental and physical well-being. If you feel complimented, loved and appreciated, everything contributes to good health. If you feel alone, isolated, stressed, abused or exploited, it has a negative impact on your health.
Intimacy promote a better sex life
Although sex is not necessary to achieve intimacy, intimacy can lead to a better sex life, which itself has health benefits. Your sexual experience will improve because you will not be afraid to express (and receive) what you want, and you will be ready and open to hear and meet your partner's needs. Trust will allow both of you to grow and try new things that can improve your relationship.