Emotional intimacy can lead to better sexual experiences for many people, especially women.
Emotional intimacy can lead to better sexual experiences for many people, especially women.
Intimacy and sex are related but are not the same. It’s possible to have one without the other. Case in point: Today’s hookup culture separates physical relations from feelings of trust, acceptance, empathy and emotional connection, and mutual commitment.
Does a Closer Relationship Mean More Sexual Satisfaction?
For many people, especially women, intimacy can lead to better sexual experiences. A study published in American Sociological ReviewJournal of Social and Personal Relationships
The Downside of Casual Sex and No-Strings-Attached Sexual Encounters
“In this hookup culture, a lot of people get hurt, let down, and feel rejected. It’s not good,” says Barbara D. Bartlik, MD, a psychiatrist and sex therapist at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City.
3Ways Emotional Intimacy Makes Sex Better
1. When you know you are accepted and valued, you are more comfortable talking about your fantasies and what gives you pleasure.
“I am all for talking about sex. People think it’s like in the movies, where two people run together without saying a word and just immediately proceed to have mind-blowing sex. Good sex in the real world is not like that. If you can’t talk about it, how is your partner going to know what you want?” says Dr. Bartlik, who is also the coauthor of the book Integrative Sexual Health
2. When you trust the other person, you are willing to take risks and expose vulnerabilities that can lead to new, enjoyable experiences. When your partner trusts you, they will reveal their inner thoughts and desires, which will make you more connected as a couple.
3. When you feel emotionally connected, you both can be your authentic.International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology
Sexual Wants and Needs: How to Achieve More Intimate Experiences
Many people are uncomfortable or afraid of making themselves vulnerable — physically and emotionally — to another person. If you want more intimacy in your sex life, here are some helpful guidelines:
- Be present.
- Know thyself.
- Work together to get in sync.
- Rewrite the script in your head.
- Stay in touch even when you are apart.
- Recognize the problem.whatwhy.The Sexual Spark