Not Just Physical Touch, Recognize The 4 Types Of Intimacy Of Married Couples

Illustration of the closeness of the couple (Pexels / Ahha Xaboba)

JAKARTA - What often comes to mind when mentioning the word 'intimacy' is related to sexuality. Intimacy, in fact, is not only related to physical touch.

Physical touch is one of them, but there are three other types that are just as important in maintaining a harmonious relationship. What exactly is intimacy? Intimacy is a process by which a person feels genuinely known, cared for, and connected.

Of course intimacy does lead to romantic relationships. But what types of intimacy can play a significant role in your relationship with your partner? Check out the explanation below.

Physical intimacy

Physical intimacy is very important to keep a husband and wife relationship healthy and lasting. In general, physical intimacy is known as cuddling, from touching to sex.

Although physical intimacy is not always related to sex, it does express feelings of affection in various ways. For example, by holding hands, kissing the forehead, and massaging.

Skin-to-skin touch can not only be beneficial in a relationship but also mentally healthy. You see, touching each other can calm, relieve stress, and care for happiness.

Emotional intimacy

Where physical intimacy is indicated by touch, emotional intimacy is more indicated by words and communication. The ideal emotional intimacy is when you and your partner feel supported, understood, and heard from each other.

Romantic couple illustration (Pexels / Anete Lusina)

To strengthen emotional intimacy requires mutual trust. If you do it often, it will make the relationship stronger rooted. Each partner may have different ways of increasing emotional intimacy.

For example, often spend time together, spend holidays together, or even just by communicating honestly and openly.

Intellectual intimacy

Many couples miss this type of intimacy. Intellectual intimacy occurs when sharing ideas, thoughts and views. The two people in a romantic relationship engage in a two-way discussion that can spark respect.

By learning to accept opinions and disapproval of a view together, it can affect how to resolve family conflicts.

Illustration of partner cooperation (Pexels / Uriel Mont)

The recommendation for strengthening intellectual intimacy is to consciously try to avoid being defensive or angry.

Spiritual intimacy

Spiritual intimacy is a higher and more personal idea because it is related to values and beliefs. Spiritual intimacy refers to having a relationship at a deep and meaningful level.

Some couples do activities related to spirituality. For example, praying together, yoga, meditation or even enjoying the sunset with your partner to increase spiritual intimacy.