Do you just think about sex or physical closeness?

If so, you're missing out on so much more.

With the loneliness epidemic going on, we as a society have lost touch with what true connection, closeness, intimacy, and belonging mean.

True intimacy is a deep connection on multiple levels with someone you feel close to, enjoy being with, and can confide in.

It gives real meaning to our relationships, friendships, and unions.

Without it, our connections lack depth.

To truly enjoy friendship, love, or companionship, we need 8 different kinds of intimacy.

Physical Intimacy Physical intimacy isn't just about sex.

It's the comforting touch that makes us feel loved, appreciated, and safe, like holding your partner's hand while strolling through the park, sharing a long, warm hug when you greet each other after work, or the simple pleasure of cuddling on the couch during a movie night.

According to a study by Sarikovskaya et al., close physical contact helps release oxytocin, the love hormone, which strengthens our bond and makes us feel secure.

Emotional Intimacy Emotional intimacy involves sharing your deepest thoughts and feelings with someone you trust.

Late-night talks about your dreams and fears, and confiding in your partner or close friend about what's bothering you create a safe space for understanding and self-awareness, and allows you to be yourself without fear or judgment.

In fact, according to a study by Hakubiak and Fine, 2017, partners who can openly share their feelings, thoughts, and needs are usually happier in their relationships because they feel heard and understood.

Experiential Intimacy You know those moments you remember vividly?

The ones that make you smile?

Like inside jokes with friends and coworkers, or unforgettable times with family?

They highlight the importance of experiential intimacy.

Through shared experiences, you're literally creating memories that will live in each other's minds forever.

It doesn't have to be anything big or fancy.

Simply spend time together, go on an expedition, try a new jogging route, or even cook a new recipe together.

These shared moments create lasting memories, bring joy, and strengthen your bond.

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Intellectual Intimacy This type of intimacy involves connecting through stimulating conversations and shared interests.

It could be discovering a new book, analyzing your different viewpoints, or discussing the TV show you're both hooked on.

To explore intellectual intimacy, consider asking, How would you like me to respond to your views?

When do you feel most heard by me?

What new insights did we gain from this conversation?

Intellectual intimacy sparks new ideas, and enhances emotional connection and physical closeness while fostering mutual respect and gratitude.

Sensual Intimacy Sensual intimacy is about engaging all the senses to create a deep and memorable connection.

It's about touch, about sight, sound, taste, and smell.

Imagine the joy of a shared sunset, the warmth of a gentle massage, the comfort of your partner's familiar scent, or the thrill of a whispered secret.

These sensory experiences heighten your awareness of each other and create a collection of memories you can cherish.

Spiritual Intimacy Spiritual intimacy transcends the physical and emotional.

It is about connecting on a deeper level through shared beliefs, values, and experiences, like Meditating side-by-side, conversations about life's big questions, or feeling a sense of unity from participating in shared spiritual practices.

Whether you share a common faith, religion, or simply a commitment to exploring the mysteries of life together, spiritual intimacy promotes a profound sense of unity and purpose.

It can provide a steady foundation where we navigate life's challenges with a shared sense of resilience and hope.

Conflict Intimacy Conflict intimacy may sound contradictory, but it's actually a powerful form of connection.

It is about handling disagreements in a way that brings you closer together rather than pushing you apart.

This means addressing conflicts with respect, empathy, and a genuine desire to understand each other's perspectives.

Instead of seeing arguments as a threat, view them as opportunities to grow and learn about each other.

Practice active listening, where you truly hear your partner's concerns without interrupting or becoming defensive.

This approach resolves issues and deepens your bond, making your relationship more resilient, long-lasting, and fulfilling.

Creative Intimacy Creative intimacy is about creating something together.

Whether it's painting, cooking, or gardening, when you engage in creative activities with someone, you're not just making something new, you're also building a shared history of fun, experimentation, and achievement.

Imagine the satisfaction of seeing a project you've worked on together come to life or the joy of laughing over a failed but fun attempt.

Creative activities promote teamwork and a shared sense of accomplishment, which are necessary ingredients for a thriving relationship.

Imagine the depth of a bond where every touch, conversation, shared experience, and creative endeavor brings you closer to each other.

Embracing all eight types of intimacy transforms relationships, making connections deeper and more meaningful.

Remember, building intimacy takes time and mutual effort, so be patient and understanding while on this journey.

Which type of intimacy resonates most with you?

Let us know in the comments.

Want to learn about non-sexual ways to show intimacy?

Watch this video.