Learn to Nurture Different Types of Intimacy in Your Life.

There are several types of intimacy. We usually associate the word “intimacy” with sex, and while that’s one version, but it’s not the entire picture. Many intimacy types are impactful in their own ways. Long-term relationships usually require support and acknowledgment of several kinds of intimacy to thrive. 

Fostering an intimate relationship between you and another person chases away loneliness and isolation. By creating intimate relationships that move beyond sex or physical attraction, you also open yourself up to grow as a person. Let’s look at a few kinds of intimacy and ways you can cultivate each one for a happier life. 

Types of Intimacy and How To Nurture Them

The way we build connections with people varies from person to person. Most of us want someone to understand how multi-dimensional we are and knowing the types of intimacy can help you achieve that. Nurturing all kinds of intimacy brings more love and acceptance into your life, which is always a wonderful thing for your mental health. 

Physical Intimacy

Many people confuse physical intimacy with sexual intimacy. They’re actually two different ways of showing affection. Physical contact and touches like hand-holding or a squeeze on the shoulder are acts of physical intimacy. Hugging, kissing, cuddling, dancing, and massages are other examples. 

If someone isn’t the touchy-feely type, see the rest of this list. If you want to build physical intimacy with another person, the first step is to talk to them about it. Communication is the foundation of all intimacy and keeps everyone on the same page. 

Emotional Intimacy

This is the intimacy you build with authenticity. It’s being candid about your thoughts and how you feel. Examples of this include telling someone your deepest fears, most tragic disappointments, your biggest wins, and wildest dreams. You and the other person feel comfortable with this unfiltered expression of one another and consider each other a safe space. 

Nurturing emotional intimacy starts with trust. Once you trust one another, you can start having more introspective, vulnerable conversations. Starting with feelings is always a wonderful step. Share how you feel with the other person. Then get curious about who they are, how they think, and encourage them to do the same. 

Experiential Intimacy

Inside jokes, private memories, and accomplishing something because of teamwork are all examples of experiential intimacy. When you have an experience that feels good with another person it increases your bond with them. That’s what builds this type of intimacy. 

To increase your experiential intimacy, get adventurous. Try something new. Find a favorite place between the two of you, and make it your “spot.” Our memories are linked with our senses. It’s why you remember your grandmother’s kitchen every time you smell your favorite dessert. Building experiential intimacy is about establishing fond memories with the other person. 

Intellectual Intimacy

Sharing thoughts, motivation, passions, ideas, and interests with another person develops your intellectual intimacy. Within an intellectually intimate relationship, perhaps just to understand and explore the other person’s mind. You want to know how they put thoughts together and explore their beliefs. 

Developing intellectual intimacy can start small. Have conversations about your favorite artists or something interesting you read in the news. From there, extend your conversations into the realm of politics. Talk about your bucket lists, your core values, and listen openly to their opinions. 

Fear of Intimacy?

If you think you might have a fear of intimacy, consider reaching out to a therapist. Certified therapists can help you find coping mechanisms for your anxieties surrounding intimacy. We can also discuss the potential root of the problem. Intimacy is one of the most basic needs of every human being. You’re worthy of it, too.