When service members are away from their partners for extended periods of time due to deployments or military training exercises, it can be challenging to maintain physical and emotional closeness.
There are several strategies that can help couples stay connected and remain physically and emotionally satisfied while apart.
The first strategy is to set clear expectations before being deployed or leaving for training. This includes discussing the length of deployment or exercise, communication plans, and any activities that will help alleviate boredom or loneliness during separation. It's also important to establish boundaries around communication, such as agreeing on when to check in and how often.
One partner may decide they want to text each day while the other may prefer video calls every weekend.
To enhance emotional attunement, couples can share photos, videos, and letters to keep each other updated on daily life events.
Keeping a journal or sending postcards can provide a tangible reminder of your presence and relationship. Another way to strengthen emotional connection is through shared hobbies or interests. If both partners enjoy reading, they could swap books or send recommendations to each other. If one person enjoys cooking, they could prepare meals together with instructions and recipes included in the package.
Financially preparing for prolonged separations is another strategy that can ease anxiety. Service members should work with their partner to create a budget plan that covers all expenses during their absence. This includes household bills, groceries, transportation costs, childcare if applicable, and savings for unexpected emergencies.
Sexual satisfaction requires effort and creativity during extended separations. Couples can explore different forms of intimacy, including phone sex, sexting, and erotic stories. They can also exchange sensual massage techniques or other physical acts that don't require touch. Some service members have even sent "pleasure packages" containing items like vibrators or lubricants to help their partner feel connected and desired.
There are many ways to maintain relational trust, emotional attunement, and sexual satisfaction during military separations. By setting clear expectations, sharing experiences, staying financially prepared, and getting creative with intimacy, service members can ensure their relationships remain strong and healthy while apart.
What strategies allow service members to maintain relational trust, emotional attunement, and sexual satisfaction during prolonged separations?
One of the most important strategies that allow service members to maintain relational trust, emotional attunement, and sexual satisfaction during prolonged separations is regular communication with their partners. This can be done through phone calls, video chats, emails, or letters. The frequency and content of these communications should be mutually agreed upon by both parties and should include updates on each other's lives, feelings, and thoughts.