Sexual intimacy is important for all types of romantic relationships
Sexual intimacy is an essential part of healthy relationships, including long-distance or intermittent ones. It can help partners feel connected to each other, build trust, and strengthen their emotional bond.
It's often challenging to sustain sexual intimacy when physical separation becomes a reality. This article will explore strategies couples can adopt to maintain sexual intimacy even when they are physically apart.
Common obstacles to sexual intimacy in long-distance or intermittent relationships
Couples in long-distance or intermittent relationships face several barriers to sustaining sexual intimacy, such as lack of physical proximity, limited communication channels, competing priorities, and infrequent visits. Physical distance makes it difficult for partners to engage in touch and body language, which are crucial for creating and expressing sexual desire. Limited communication channels make it harder for partners to share intimate thoughts and feelings, making them less likely to initiate sex. Competitive priorities mean that one partner may have less time and energy for intimacy due to work, school, hobbies, or social commitments.
Infrequent visits make it hard for partners to develop routines and establish patterns that promote sexual intimacy.
Strategies to maintain sexual intimacy in long-distance or intermittent relationships
Despite these obstacles, there are many ways that couples can maintain sexual intimacy in long-distance or intermittent relationships.
Communication
The first strategy is to communicate regularly about your needs, desires, and boundaries related to sexual intimacy. You can start by sharing what you like, dislike, and prefer in bed. Then, discuss how you want to approach sexual intimacy during your next visit.
You could agree on a specific date and time to spend together just having sex. You can also set up regular video calls or phone conversations dedicated to talking explicitly about sexual matters. This helps create an atmosphere where it's okay to be open and honest without fear of judgment.
Scheduling sex
Another strategy is to schedule sex as if it were any other activity. Set aside time for physical intimacy during each visit, even if you don't always feel like doing so. Be flexible when necessary, but try to stick to the plan unless something unavoidable happens. It takes effort to sustain sexual intimacy, but scheduling makes it easier because you'll have more opportunities to practice and grow closer.
Exploring new activities
Long-distance or intermittent relationships often involve finding creative ways to spice things up. You can explore new forms of sensuality, such as touching or kissing over video call, sending explicit messages or pictures, or engaging in roleplay via text message. You can also try different types of intimacy that are less physically demanding, such as massages, hot tub sessions, or shared exercise routines. These activities keep you connected emotionally while maintaining the excitement of anticipation and novelty.
Setting boundaries
Set boundaries that ensure both partners feel comfortable with the frequency, intensity, and type of sexual intimacy they experience. Boundaries can include deciding how many days per week or month you want to engage in physical intimacy, discussing specific acts that make you uncomfortable, or agreeing on when to refrain from sex altogether. Establish these boundaries early on to avoid misunderstandings later. Do not assume that your partner wants what you do; talk openly about preferences and listen carefully to their response.
Couples in long-distance or intermittent relationships can sustain sexual intimacy by communicating regularly, scheduling time for it, exploring new activities, and setting appropriate boundaries. It may take some trial and error, but this approach can help strengthen your relationship and deepen your emotional connection. Remember, sexual intimacy is an essential part of any healthy romantic relationship - even if you're apart most of the time!
How do couples maintain sexual intimacy in long-distance or intermittent relationships?
Sexual intimacy is an important part of any romantic relationship, regardless of whether it is long-distance or not. In long-distance relationships, where physical contact between partners may be limited, couples need to find alternative ways to maintain this aspect of their connection. This can involve open communication about what is most desired and appreciated by both parties, as well as creative and intentional exploration of other forms of intimacy that go beyond just sex itself.