Three Ways to Build Partner Intimacy

Experienced lecturer, hypnotherapist, and psychology researcher Joshua Dietz has provided counseling services to clients managing diverse disorders, including mood and behavioral issues. Joshua Dietz has also published several articles covering psychology topics, including creativity, anxiety, and intimacy.

Intimacy is a level of closeness that is obtained through emotional safety and understanding. Developing intimacy takes time, patience, and open communication. Even established couples can have difficulty being vulnerable enough to achieve true intimacy. Other issues, such as fear of intimacy or certain personality disorders, can also make it difficult for an individual to connect emotionally to their partner. Deepening emotional bonds and showing active interest in one another can help couples build intimacy.

Interest can be demonstrated by asking open-ended questions and allowing the other person to speak freely without judgment. Remaining in constant contact through handholding and other forms of physical affection releases the bonding hormone oxytocin, bringing couples closer together. Finally, taking a partner for granted can result in reduced intimacy. Couples should show they still desire one another through kind words and considerate actions.