Sharing your deepest—sometimes darkest—thoughts and feelings with someone is just one of the ways that you can build intimacy in a relationship. But, if the idea of telling your partner about Loli, the imaginary friend you created during your parent’s divorce, leaves you feeling exposed in the worst way, no worries. There are plenty of other ways to build intimacy in a relationship!
The objective of intimacy is to build closeness and solidify a bond with another person. Though how you create and express that intimacy is a uniquely individual experience. For one person, it means they are allowing someone to meet their inner circle (friends, family, etc.). For another, it can mean engaging in a philosophical conversation about which John Wick movie was the best.
So, how do you build intimacy in a relationship?
Before we get into the different types of intimacy styles, let me be explicit.
Intimacy and sex are not synonyms.
So, while intimacy can lead to fantastic sex, it’s possible to have one without the other. Recognizing your style and that of others will help you tremendously in all relationships, not just romantic ones.