Strategies for Military Couples to Sustain Intimacy During Separation or Rotational Deployment
During separation or rotational deployment, it can be difficult for military couples to maintain intimacy.
There are several strategies that can help them stay connected and keep their relationship strong. Here are some tips to consider:
1. Establish regular communication - One of the most important things you can do is to establish regular communication with your partner. This could include scheduling video calls or phone dates, sending each other letters or emails, or even using social media to share updates about your day. It's important to find a routine that works for both of you and stick to it.
2. Keep up with physical activity together - Working out together can be a great way to stay physically active and also build emotional closeness. You can try doing yoga or Pilates classes online, running races virtually, or even playing games like Wii Fit or Dance Dance Revolution. Just make sure to pick something you both enjoy so it doesn't feel like work!
3. Share daily moments - Small things like sharing a cup of coffee or taking a walk around the base can go a long way in helping you feel closer to each other. Take time to talk about your days and what's going on in your lives, even if it's just for a few minutes at a time.
4. Plan for reunions - Try to plan ahead when possible so you know exactly when you will see each other again. That way, you can anticipate being together and look forward to it instead of feeling anxious or worried. Make plans for activities you can do together when you get back together, such as hiking, cooking, or watching movies.
5. Stay connected sexually - Sexual intimacy is an important part of any relationship, but it can be especially difficult when one person is away from home. Try to find ways to stay connected through sexting, phone sex, or virtual role-playing. This can help keep the spark alive until you are able to be together in person again.
Remember, there are many different strategies that can help military couples sustain intimacy during separation or rotational deployment. What works best for you depends on your personal preferences and situation. Be creative, open-minded, and willing to try new things to make sure you stay connected with your partner no matter where they are stationed.
What strategies help military couples sustain intimacy during separation or rotational deployment?
The US Department of Defense (2014) conducted a survey among military spouses and discovered that one of the main reasons for infidelity was due to lack of communication between partners who were apart. Therefore, it is important for military couples to establish open lines of communication while separated by deployment or rotation. This includes sending frequent emails, phone calls, video chats, letters, etc. , to stay connected with each other emotionally.