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Shan Boodram

Sex is an essential part of promoting an intimate and healthy relationship. Having [sex](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-important-is-sex-in-a-relationship) with your significant other is a way to display affection and foster an [emotional](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-safety) bond. Sex also encourages self-confidence and relieves stress, which supports your mental health. As partners celebrate their sensuality, they develop a strong sense of comfort in each other’s company. 
The amount of sex a married couple has does not dictate a healthy relationship. Signs of a positive romantic relationship stem from a strong emotional and physical attraction and include: 

- __Acceptance of flaws__: Sex is a vulnerable act. When partners accept and embrace each other’s flaws, they promote a deeper level of [intimacy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/intimacy-in-a-relationship) and a stronger emotional connection. Loving and appreciating each other’s bodies promotes both spouses' self-esteem and creates a foundation for a healthy sex life.
- __Open communication__: Honest communication in the form of consent and shared expectations is a sign of a healthy relationship. Sex should be an equal act that considers both partners’ needs. Having meaningful conversations with your significant other about what you like and don’t like is a great way to promote a healthy sex life. Try a “[yes, no, maybe” list](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/yes-no-maybe-list) to learn about each other’s preferences. 
- __Physical attraction__: Enjoying each other’s company is another sign of a healthy relationship. As you and your partner grow and change over time, it’s important to maintain intimacy and affection for each other. Holding hands, planning date nights, and complimenting each other are signs of a positive level of attraction.
A sexless marriage describes a relationship between spouses who do not engage in sexual activity. The term can also apply to couples who only engage in sexual intimacy a few times a year. Different circumstances result in a sexless relationship; however, some common factors that contribute to a lack of sex include stress, fatigue, and busy schedules. 
Creating a healthy sex life is a joint [effort](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/effort-in-a-relationship). Partners should work together to maintain their romantic spark. 

- __Communicate your needs__. Sexual satisfaction results from <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-your-communication-skills' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-your-communication-skills","linkCopy":"effective communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>effective communication</a>. Use conversations to build intimacy and open up with your partner. The more you share your feelings and personal life, the more comfortable you’ll feel around your spouse. You can also use these conversations to [communicate](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-communicate-in-a-relationship) your expectations and comforts regarding your sex marriage. 
- __Prioritize intimacy__. If you and your partner both have busy schedules, set a time during the week for a date night to maintain your frequency of sex. Change up your activity and remain present in the moment to eliminate distractions and prevent your relationship from entering a rut. 
- __Be spontaneous__. Keep your sex life fresh by initiating romance spontaneously. While it’s good to set date nights, make time for intimate acts throughout the day. Consider grabbing your partner’s hand or pulling them in for a kiss to set the mood and increase your sexual frequency. 
While promoting your sexual desires is important, you and your partner can build intimacy outside of sex. Consider these tips for fostering a deeper connection:

1. __Display physical affection__. Intimacy commonly refers to sexual activity, but there are many ways to build physical intimacy. Hug your loved one and give them a shoulder to lean on to strengthen the bond between you. If you are in a sexual relationship, holding hands in public and cuddling can help maintain intimacy and a healthy sex life.
2. __Practice gratitude__. Showing appreciation demonstrates you value the other person in a relationship. You can show appreciation by saying thank you, buying gifts, and returning favors. 
3. __Support each other’s passions__. Embracing your partner’s pursuits demonstrates your love and [support](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-be-a-supportive-partner) of their values. By providing positive encouragement and advice, you can foster intimacy through motivation.
Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and learn more about open <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communication</a> with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast *Sex With Emily*). 
In a sexual marriage, a couple can foster emotional intimacy and improve their overall well-being by encouraging their sex drive. Learn about sexual behaviors that reflect a healthy married life.

In a sexual marriage, a couple can foster emotional intimacy and improve their overall well-being by encouraging their sex drive. Learn about sexual behaviors that reflect a healthy married life. 

Sexual Marriage: Signs of Healthy Sex Life

Sex is an essential part of promoting an intimate and healthy relationship. Having <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-important-is-sex-in-a-relationship' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-important-is-sex-in-a-relationship","linkCopy":"sex","category":null}'>sex</a> with your significant other is a way to display affection and foster an <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-safety' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-safety","linkCopy":"emotional","category":null}'>emotional</a> bond. Sex also encourages self-confidence and relieves stress, which supports your mental health. As partners celebrate their sensuality, they develop a strong sense of comfort in each other’s company.

Why Is Sex in Marriage Important?

The amount of sex a married couple has does not dictate a healthy relationship. Signs of a positive romantic relationship stem from a strong emotional and physical attraction and include: <ul class="mc-m-4 list-styled"><li class="">Acceptance of flaws: Sex is a vulnerable act. When partners accept and embrace each other’s flaws, they promote a deeper level of <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/intimacy-in-a-relationship' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/intimacy-in-a-relationship","linkCopy":"intimacy","category":null}'>intimacy</a> and a stronger emotional connection. Loving and appreciating each other’s bodies promotes both spouses&#39; self-esteem and creates a foundation for a healthy sex life. </li><li class="">Open communication: Honest communication in the form of consent and shared expectations is a sign of a healthy relationship. Sex should be an equal act that considers both partners’ needs. Having meaningful conversations with your significant other about what you like and don’t like is a great way to promote a healthy sex life. Try a “<a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/yes-no-maybe-list' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/yes-no-maybe-list","linkCopy":"yes, no, maybe” list","category":null}'>yes, no, maybe” list</a> to learn about each other’s preferences. </li><li class="">Physical attraction: Enjoying each other’s company is another sign of a healthy relationship. As you and your partner grow and change over time, it’s important to maintain intimacy and affection for each other. Holding hands, planning date nights, and complimenting each other are signs of a positive level of attraction. </li></ul>

Signs of a Healthy Sex Life in Marriage

A sexless marriage describes a relationship between spouses who do not engage in sexual activity. The term can also apply to couples who only engage in sexual intimacy a few times a year. Different circumstances result in a sexless relationship; however, some common factors that contribute to a lack of sex include stress, fatigue, and busy schedules.

What Is a Sexless Marriage?

Creating a healthy sex life is a joint <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/effort-in-a-relationship' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/effort-in-a-relationship","linkCopy":"effort","category":null}'>effort</a>. Partners should work together to maintain their romantic spark. <ul class="mc-m-4 list-styled"><li class="">Communicate your needs. Sexual satisfaction results from <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-your-communication-skills' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-your-communication-skills","linkCopy":"effective communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>effective communication</a>. Use conversations to build intimacy and open up with your partner. The more you share your feelings and personal life, the more comfortable you’ll feel around your spouse. You can also use these conversations to <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-communicate-in-a-relationship' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-communicate-in-a-relationship","linkCopy":"communicate","category":null}'>communicate</a> your expectations and comforts regarding your sex marriage. </li><li class="">Prioritize intimacy. If you and your partner both have busy schedules, set a time during the week for a date night to maintain your frequency of sex. Change up your activity and remain present in the moment to eliminate distractions and prevent your relationship from entering a rut. </li><li class="">Be spontaneous. Keep your sex life fresh by initiating romance spontaneously. While it’s good to set date nights, make time for intimate acts throughout the day. Consider grabbing your partner’s hand or pulling them in for a kiss to set the mood and increase your sexual frequency. </li></ul>

How to Have a Healthy Sex Life in Marriage

While promoting your sexual desires is important, you and your partner can build intimacy outside of sex. Consider these tips for fostering a deeper connection:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Display physical affection. Intimacy commonly refers to sexual activity, but there are many ways to build physical intimacy. Hug your loved one and give them a shoulder to lean on to strengthen the bond between you. If you are in a sexual relationship, holding hands in public and cuddling can help maintain intimacy and a healthy sex life. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Practice gratitude. Showing appreciation demonstrates you value the other person in a relationship. You can show appreciation by saying thank you, buying gifts, and returning favors. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Support each other’s passions. Embracing your partner’s pursuits demonstrates your love and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-be-a-supportive-partner' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-be-a-supportive-partner","linkCopy":"support","category":null}'>support</a> of their values. By providing positive encouragement and advice, you can foster intimacy through motivation. </li></ol>

3 Ways to Foster Intimacy in Marriage

Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a> and learn more about open <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communication</a> with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast Sex With Emily).

Let’s Talk About Sex

In a sexual marriage, a couple can foster emotional intimacy and improve their overall well-being by encouraging their sex drive. Learn about sexual behaviors that reflect a healthy married life.

In a sexual marriage, a couple can foster emotional intimacy and improve their overall well-being by encouraging their sex drive. Learn about sexual behaviors that reflect a healthy married life. 


sexual-marriage

Sexual intimacy is a connection between sexual partners that relies on simultaneous physical attraction and [emotional vulnerability](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-vulnerability). The physical act of sex can be stimulating, but deeper feelings, [trust](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/building-trust), and care promote sexual chemistry in intimate relationships. Building sexual intimacy through an emotional connection can lead to more satisfying sexual experiences. Sexual, [emotional](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-intimacy), experiential, [intellectual](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/intellectual-intimacy), and physical intimacy all contribute to healthy, lasting relationships.
Sexually intimate and sexually disconnected relationships can both involve physical contact and genital stimulation, but they differ emotionally. Sexual intimacy comes from a positive place: a generosity between sexual partners and a desire to pleasure one another. Sexual intimacy necessitates vulnerability, risk-taking, and trust.

Sexually disconnected partners, meanwhile, might have sex but struggle with trust and other forms of intimacy, such as nonsexual physical touch or emotional intimacy. In disconnected relationships, partners want to experience sexual pleasure, but the sex often becomes more rote and less intense. This might happen to long-term relationships or married couples not working on spicing up their sex life. Sometimes, couples without intimacy stop having sex entirely, which can breed resentment.
Intimacy requires partners to be open and vulnerable with each other. Sexual intimacy is an integral part of any sexual relationship. If you cannot trust your partner, you will not be able to enjoy yourself wholly. Closing yourself off can make it harder to foster connections, and this isolation can impact your mental health.

Practice intimacy on your terms. Many types of intimacy exist, and not everyone needs to lead from sexuality in building bonds. Intellectual, experiential, emotional, and spiritual intimacy are other forms of intimacy that promote healthy relationships.
Building sexual intimacy can have several physical and mental health benefits. Consider the following advantages:

1. __Connectivity__: Sexual intimacy brings two people closer through [communication](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-communicate-in-a-relationship) and understanding. Deep emotional bonds can lead to better sex. Emotional connectedness is an important factor for sexual activity involving [kink](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/kinky-sex-guide) and sexual fantasies.
2. __Endorphins__: Sex releases feel-good [endorphins](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/endorphins-explained) that lead to [stress reduction](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-calm-yourself-down) and [happiness](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-happiness), which help your overall well-being.
3. __Mental health__: Sex can center your breathing and help you relax, improving your [mental health](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health).
4. __Self-esteem__: Awakening your sexual self and feeling desired by another can increase your [self-esteem](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem) and make you move through the world more confidently.
If you have intimacy issues or want to build sexual chemistry with a new partner, try these tactics:

1. __Ask your partner what they want__. All relationships require open communication, particularly when it comes to sex. See if your partner has any preferences and support their desires.
2. __Delay sex__. With new couples, delaying sex can increase desire. Waiting a little longer to have sex can keep a charge in the air and boost your sex drive.
3. __Give new positions a try__. Change your regular sexual practices; you may find that you like something new. You can also try having sex at different times of the day to see if your mood shifts.
4. __Keep a journal__. Writing about intimacy in a journal can help you identify issues and [relationship needs](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/needs-in-a-relationship).
5. __See a sex therapist__. Couples and individuals can also start [sex therapy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-sex-therapist). Professional sex therapists give partners prompts and techniques to break down barriers, speak more openly, and engage in more vulnerable sexual activity.
Kissing and vaginal, [anal](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-safer-anal-sex), and [oral sex](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/cunnilingus-guide) involve physical touch, but there are also nonphysical ways for romantic partners to practice foreplay or foster sexual intimacy. [Sexting](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sexting-games)—sending sexy text messages—is one way to stimulate you and your partner, and sustained eye contact or verbal banter and flirting are other methods to manifest attraction.

Sometimes, these acts lead to physical intimacy, such as hugging, kissing, or [cuddling](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/cuddling). However, they do not have to—withholding from sex can augment sexual desire and lead to more satisfying sexual experiences.
Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and learn more about open <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communication</a> with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast *Sex With Emily*). 
Many romantic relationships depend on a healthy sex life. Learn about the importance of emotional closeness in the bedroom and how couples can foster sexual intimacy.

Many romantic relationships depend on a healthy sex life. Learn about the importance of emotional closeness in the bedroom and how couples can foster sexual intimacy.

Sexual Intimacy: How to Build a Sexually Intimate Relationship

Sexual intimacy is a connection between sexual partners that relies on simultaneous physical attraction and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-vulnerability' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-vulnerability","linkCopy":"emotional vulnerability","category":null}'>emotional vulnerability</a>. The physical act of sex can be stimulating, but deeper feelings, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/building-trust' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/building-trust","linkCopy":"trust","category":null}'>trust</a>, and care promote sexual chemistry in intimate relationships. Building sexual intimacy through an emotional connection can lead to more satisfying sexual experiences. Sexual, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-intimacy' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-intimacy","linkCopy":"emotional","category":null}'>emotional</a>, experiential, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/intellectual-intimacy' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/intellectual-intimacy","linkCopy":"intellectual","category":null}'>intellectual</a>, and physical intimacy all contribute to healthy, lasting relationships.

What Is Sexual Intimacy?

Sexually intimate and sexually disconnected relationships can both involve physical contact and genital stimulation, but they differ emotionally. Sexual intimacy comes from a positive place: a generosity between sexual partners and a desire to pleasure one another. Sexual intimacy necessitates vulnerability, risk-taking, and trust.Sexually disconnected partners, meanwhile, might have sex but struggle with trust and other forms of intimacy, such as nonsexual physical touch or emotional intimacy. In disconnected relationships, partners want to experience sexual pleasure, but the sex often becomes more rote and less intense. This might happen to long-term relationships or married couples not working on spicing up their sex life. Sometimes, couples without intimacy stop having sex entirely, which can breed resentment.

Sexually Intimate vs. Sexually Disconnected Relationships

Intimacy requires partners to be open and vulnerable with each other. Sexual intimacy is an integral part of any sexual relationship. If you cannot trust your partner, you will not be able to enjoy yourself wholly. Closing yourself off can make it harder to foster connections, and this isolation can impact your mental health.Practice intimacy on your terms. Many types of intimacy exist, and not everyone needs to lead from sexuality in building bonds. Intellectual, experiential, emotional, and spiritual intimacy are other forms of intimacy that promote healthy relationships.

The Role of Intimacy in Relationships and Overall Health

Building sexual intimacy can have several physical and mental health benefits. Consider the following advantages:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Connectivity: Sexual intimacy brings two people closer through <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-communicate-in-a-relationship' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-communicate-in-a-relationship","linkCopy":"communication","category":null}'>communication</a> and understanding. Deep emotional bonds can lead to better sex. Emotional connectedness is an important factor for sexual activity involving <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/kinky-sex-guide' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/kinky-sex-guide","linkCopy":"kink","category":null}'>kink</a> and sexual fantasies. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Endorphins: Sex releases feel-good <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/endorphins-explained' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/endorphins-explained","linkCopy":"endorphins","category":null}'>endorphins</a> that lead to <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-calm-yourself-down' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-calm-yourself-down","linkCopy":"stress reduction","category":null}'>stress reduction</a> and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-happiness' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-happiness","linkCopy":"happiness","category":null}'>happiness</a>, which help your overall well-being. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Mental health: Sex can center your breathing and help you relax, improving your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health","linkCopy":"mental health","category":null}'>mental health</a>. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Self-esteem: Awakening your sexual self and feeling desired by another can increase your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem","linkCopy":"self-esteem","category":null}'>self-esteem</a> and make you move through the world more confidently. </li></ol>

4 Benefits of Sexual Intimacy

If you have intimacy issues or want to build sexual chemistry with a new partner, try these tactics:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Ask your partner what they want. All relationships require open communication, particularly when it comes to sex. See if your partner has any preferences and support their desires. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Delay sex. With new couples, delaying sex can increase desire. Waiting a little longer to have sex can keep a charge in the air and boost your sex drive. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Give new positions a try. Change your regular sexual practices; you may find that you like something new. You can also try having sex at different times of the day to see if your mood shifts. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Keep a journal. Writing about intimacy in a journal can help you identify issues and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/needs-in-a-relationship' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/needs-in-a-relationship","linkCopy":"relationship needs","category":null}'>relationship needs</a>. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. See a sex therapist. Couples and individuals can also start <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-sex-therapist' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-sex-therapist","linkCopy":"sex therapy","category":null}'>sex therapy</a>. Professional sex therapists give partners prompts and techniques to break down barriers, speak more openly, and engage in more vulnerable sexual activity. </li></ol>

How to Build Sexual Intimacy: 5 Methods

Kissing and vaginal, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-safer-anal-sex' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-safer-anal-sex","linkCopy":"anal","category":null}'>anal</a>, and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/cunnilingus-guide' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/cunnilingus-guide","linkCopy":"oral sex","category":null}'>oral sex</a> involve physical touch, but there are also nonphysical ways for romantic partners to practice foreplay or foster sexual intimacy. <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sexting-games' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sexting-games","linkCopy":"Sexting","category":null}'>Sexting</a>—sending sexy text messages—is one way to stimulate you and your partner, and sustained eye contact or verbal banter and flirting are other methods to manifest attraction.Sometimes, these acts lead to physical intimacy, such as hugging, kissing, or <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/cuddling' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/cuddling","linkCopy":"cuddling","category":null}'>cuddling</a>. However, they do not have to—withholding from sex can augment sexual desire and lead to more satisfying sexual experiences.

Nonphysical Ways to Foster Sexual Intimacy

Many romantic relationships depend on a healthy sex life. Learn about the importance of emotional closeness in the bedroom and how couples can foster sexual intimacy.

Many romantic relationships depend on a healthy sex life. Learn about the importance of emotional closeness in the bedroom and how couples can foster sexual intimacy.


Lesbian couple cuddling to increase sexual intimacy.

sexual-intimacy

Emotional intimacy is the vulnerability and trust that significant others build with one another to sustain a healthy relationship. This form of intimacy shows emotional support between romantic partners. Intimate relationships rely on more than physical attraction; building emotional bonds can increase relationship satisfaction and make each person feel appreciated, heard, and loved. A lack of emotional intimacy can make partners feel distant and unloved.

Building intimacy can pose a challenge for partners and married couples, as emotional availability can mean stepping outside their comfort zones. Still, through small steps and relationship coaching, people can more readily tap into their emotions, improving their relationship's overall well-being and mental health.
Physical intimacy, sexual intimacy, [intellectual intimacy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/intellectual-intimacy), and emotional intimacy are the types of [intimacy in relationships](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/intimacy-in-a-relationship). Especially critical in long-term relationships, emotional intimacy can help improve different types of intimacy. A strong emotional connection, for example, can support a healthy sex life. Emotional intimacy allows partners to communicate effectively and share their inner selves, developing a sense of security. Partners need to know their significant other will celebrate their achievements and offer support during challenging times. 
Emotional intimacy can take many forms. Consider the following qualities of an emotionally intimate partner and examples of how to express emotional intimacy:

1. __Appreciative__: Expressing thanks is a small act that can quickly communicate how much your partner means to you and how you appreciate their help and support.
2. __Vulnerable__: Being vulnerable is a crucial aspect of emotional intimacy. Openly expressing your feelings invites your partner to do the same and shows that no topic is taboo.
3. __Supportive__: Stay attuned to your partner’s needs to build emotional intimacy. If your partner experiences stress, be present and available and volunteer to step in and assist.
4. __Thoughtful__: Sometimes, it’s the little things that display [emotional intelligence](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-develop-your-emotional-intelligence): You can buy your partner flowers or gifts, take them out for a date night, or write them a card on a special day or [anniversary](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/anniversary-gifts-by-year). Proactively showing affection is an excellent way to express love for your partner.
Emotional intimacy contributes to the success of a sustained relationship. Consider the following methods to build emotional vulnerability in a relationship:

- __Ask your partner how they feel__. Sharing your emotions is a necessary process in a successful relationship. Ask your partner how they feel, and know they may return the question to you. Be thoughtful about what you share and express. Practicing vulnerability with each other can help build [trust in a relationship](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/trust-in-a-relationship).
- __Change up your routine__. Changing daily habits and patterns in your relationship can show new paths outside the comfort zone that may invite greater vulnerability.
- __Give affirmations freely__. Sometimes, you get what you give. If you readily provide [words of affirmation](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/words-of-affirmation-love-language), your partner may return compliments to you and stimulate a stronger emotional bond. 
- __Keep a journal__. You may have an easier time writing down feelings than expressing them outwardly. [Keep a journal](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-start-and-keep-a-journal) to connect with your emotions and better understand how to communicate them with others.
- __See a relationship coach__. Therapists or relationship coaches can help partners better understand how they communicate and show emotional intimacy toward one another.
Developing relational intelligence and improving <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communication</a> are essential to boost the quality of your personal and professional relationships. Discover Esther Perel’s approach to [resolving conflict](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-resolve-conflict), [having difficult conversations](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-have-difficult-conversations), and building trust when you sign up for a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com/).
Emotional connections build and sustain a romantic relationship. Learn how to develop emotional intimacy with your partner.

Emotional connections build and sustain a romantic relationship. Learn how to develop emotional intimacy with your partner.

Emotional Intimacy: How to Build Emotional Intimacy

Emotional connections build and sustain a romantic relationship. Learn how to develop emotional intimacy with your partner.

Emotional connections build and sustain a romantic relationship. Learn how to develop emotional intimacy with your partner.


Cultivate Intimacy & Sexual Well-being