Sexual intimacy in marriage is central to the strength and unity between you and your partner; however, sexual intimacy involves much more than the sex alone. The intimacy shared between you and your partner is comprised of the genuine closeness, support, and companionship you share with one another.
Sexual intimacy is also the mutual sense of comfort you feel in being your true self and expressing your thoughts, feelings, and desires to one another. Although sex is important in sexual intimacy, it is certainly not the only component nor is it the primary variable. If it was then any two people who share a sexual encounter would, by default, have sexual intimacy, and this is not the case. Not even love means that you will have sexual intimacy. Many couples may love each other, but lack the necessary intimacy. Developing true and lasting sexual intimacy takes work and a desire between both partners to prioritize a satisfying and high-quality relationship.
Below we will discuss some reasons why you and your partner should explore and strengthen your sexual intimacy for a healthy and happy marriage.
- Sexual intimacy keeps you both physically and emotionally healthy. Studies have found that people who are married are not necessarily happier, but if the relationship between the couple is healthy and satisfying, then married people do enjoy better health.
- Sexual intimacy in a marriage means that you will be able to manage life stressors or any major life changes more effectively and support one another in the process.
- Sexual intimacy can help your marriage if you are struggling to agree or get along in other areas. For some couples, sexual intimacy is what keeps the marriage together during tumultuous times or periods of strain in the relationship.
- Sexual intimacy promotes healthy self-esteem. Your self-esteem must derive from your own beliefs about yourself and your self-worth, but it definitely helps when your partner is supportive and proud of you and your accomplishments.
- Sexual intimacy will help you in other areas of your life. Your career, your parenting abilities, and your friendships will be better when you have a healthy, intimate relationship with your partner.
