Strategies for Intimate Relationships in Difficult Environments
Soldiers may find it challenging to maintain close connections when they are away from their loved ones due to the unique circumstances of military service, including deployment, separation, and combat situations.
This does not mean that they cannot experience intimacy and fulfillment in their relationships. To overcome these obstacles, they employ various strategies to foster emotional closeness even in environments where privacy is limited. Here are some techniques soldiers can adopt to keep their relationships strong:
Communication
Communication is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. Soldiers can establish intimacy through communication even in unconventional settings. They can write letters or emails, call regularly, send videos and photos, chat online, or even create care packages containing items related to their partner's interests. These methods allow them to stay connected, share their thoughts and feelings, and show affection despite being physically apart.
Emotional Connection
Soldiers can develop an emotional bond by expressing their love and appreciation towards their partners. They can do this by writing love letters, sending gifts, sharing stories about their day-to-day experiences, and describing how much they miss them. This helps build a deeper connection and creates a sense of belonging between the two people.
Physical Touch
Physical touch may be difficult to achieve in certain situations, but soldiers can still use other ways to demonstrate affection.
They can hug tightly, kiss passionately, hold hands, rub shoulders, and even just rest their head on their partner's shoulder while talking on video calls. These actions convey warmth, comfort, and support, which are essential elements of intimacy.
Trust and Honesty
Trust and honesty are crucial components of any healthy relationship. Soldiers can cultivate these qualities by being transparent about their daily activities, goals, and fears. They should also prioritize their partner's needs and desires and keep their promises, even when they cannot meet them physically. This builds a strong foundation for trust that lasts long after deployment ends.
What strategies do soldiers use to create emotional intimacy in environments with limited privacy?
Soldiers often use various strategies to establish emotional intimacy in situations where privacy is limited. They engage in activities that allow them to express themselves emotionally and connect with others on an individual level. These include sharing personal stories, listening actively, and offering emotional support. Additionally, they may rely on nonverbal communication such as touching or holding hands to convey their feelings.