Sustaining Sexual Intimacy During Stressful Times
When it comes to maintaining sexual intimacy in a relationship, there are several factors that can impact this aspect of your bond. Life circumstances such as stress, separation, and major life transitions can have an impact on how often you have sex or even if you have any at all.
Maintaining sexual intimacy is important for the overall health of the couple's connection. Here are some ways that couples can sustain sexual intimacy during these times.
Stress Management
One way that couples can sustain sexual intimacy during stressful times is by managing their stress levels. When one partner is feeling stressed out, they may be less likely to feel physically or emotionally available for sex. This can lead to frustration and further tension between partners. Instead, the couple should work together to find ways to manage stress. They can do this by exercising regularly, meditating, practicing yoga, and deep breathing exercises. In addition, they can communicate openly about what is causing them stress and brainstorm solutions together.
Communication
Open communication is another key factor when it comes to sustaining sexual intimacy. Couples need to talk about what is going on in each other's lives and how they are feeling. If one partner is struggling with something, the other should offer support and encouragement. They should also discuss boundaries and limits regarding sex.
One partner might want more physical contact while the other wants less. By talking things through, couples can avoid misunderstandings and miscommunications.
Date Night
Date night is a great way to sustain sexual intimacy during periods of stress, separation, or major life transitions. It gives both partners time alone where they can focus on each other without any distractions. During date night, they can go out for dinner, watch a movie, or even engage in an activity that they enjoy doing together. This quality time will help reconnect them as a couple and potentially spark interest in each other again.
Physical Touch
Even if the couple isn't having actual intercourse, physical touch can still be important in maintaining sexual intimacy. Holding hands, hugging, and kissing are all forms of physical touch that can keep the connection alive between two people. It helps them feel connected even when they may not have the time or energy for sex. Physical touch can also release oxytocin which is the bonding hormone.
Sexual Intimacy
Even though sexual intimacy may be low at this time, it doesn't mean that it has to end altogether. The couple can explore other ways to stay intimate such as sensual massages, role-playing games, and sexting. These activities allow them to connect emotionally without requiring much effort.
Therapy/Counseling
If there are underlying issues causing tension between the couple, therapy or counseling may be necessary. A professional can help identify what those issues are and provide guidance on how to work through them. They may recommend exercises or activities that can help improve communication or help resolve conflicts.
Maintaining Sexual Intimacy During Stressful Times
While these factors can help couples sustain sexual intimacy during stressful times, it's essential to remember that no one method works for everyone. Every couple is different, so finding what works best for you both is crucial. If something does not work, try something else until you find a solution that works for your relationship.
Communication is key in any successful relationship. By talking openly about what each partner wants and needs, couples can maintain their connection and continue to enjoy a fulfilling sex life.
How do couples sustain sexual intimacy during periods of stress, separation, or major life transitions?
A recent study found that 64% of adults in committed relationships reported decreases in sex drive due to work stress. The authors hypothesized this was related to an imbalance between sympathetic activation (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic deactivation (rest-and-digest).