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When we define intimacy, many individuals and couples often associate it with some sort of sexual encounter. Sex is only one type of intimacy. Intimacy can be non-sexual and doesn’t always involve romance or physical affection.
Intimacy involves sharing a connection with another person and therefore requires at least two people. This can include a partner, parent, co-worker, friend, or even a pet. Any type of intimacy can vary depending on the type of relationship.
Intimacy involves the act of sharing the deepest parts of oneself. It can be experienced in a healthy manner when the relationship supports mutual communication, commitment, tenderness, and trust.
Although you may fell that intimacy in relationships are common, you may struggle to find, share, and feel true intimacy with others. You may find yourself wondering, An example question to describe this would be ,”Why do I still feel alone even when I am with someone?”
The answer may could lead to negative thoughts. One of the fundamental aspects of intimacy is the willingness to be vulnerable. If you are afraid of being vulnerable, you are also afraid of intimacy, despite longing for it.
Self-disclosure is an essential aspect of intimate sharing. There may be times when you want to share something private about yourself with your partner. For example, you may want to talk about how your brother used to talk about your weight when you were a child and how you still have those memories. Perhaps as a result, you feel ashamed of your body and are reluctant to undress in front of others.
The risk of not being upfront is in not knowing if your partner is ready to hear what you have to say and how they will respond. Will they dismiss it, tell you to “let it go,” or show compassion?
the fear of uncertainty may affect you from developing honest relationships with your partner, parents, or friends. Instead of revealing your true self, you may wear a mask that says “everything’s okay.”
Expressing your true feelings about something is another act of intimacy. How often do you hold back what you really want to say to someone? For instance, you might feel lonely when your partner spends the entire evening in front of the TV.
Sharing your truth with someone brings intimacy into your life every time you express your emotions such as anger, disappointment, hurt, love, commitment, or joy.
Establishing true intimacy happens when you let others truly experience the authentic version of yourself. Giving yourself permission to do this may lead to a feeling of fulfillment instead of emptiness and a sense of connection instead of loneliness.
Furthermore, you may find that when you sincerely share yourself with others, it encourages them to reveal themselves to you. As a result, your relationships will become richer and more rewarding.
