The world always talks about a romantic kind of love, but not enough people talk about the quiet, soft, and heartwarming connections that make life meaningful. This non-sexual intimacy is the bedrock of your relationships, it’s the part that makes you feel completely yourself and comfortable with them.
In this post, we’ll be touching on non-sexual intimacy and the wonderful things that make these connections something to be cherished. Let’s dive into what this kind of intimacy is and what you can do to nurture this non-sexual part of your relationships.
What is Non-Sexual Intimacy?
Ever heard of non-sexual intimacy? It’s simply the everyday stuff that happens between people. It isn’t big or grand, it’s the cosy feeling of knowing you share an incredible time of laughter and inside jokes with these people.
An article by the Sexual Health Alliance described non-sexual intimacy as having a profoundly positive impact on human happiness and well-being. Getting a good dose of physical touch and affection boosts our oxytocin levels, improving our bonding experiences and happiness levels. It’s about small moments that turn into sweet memories between you and the people who are close to you.
Different Kinds of Non-Sexual Intimacy
As we look a little deeper, there’s more to discover about non-sexual intimacy. Here are the different kinds you probably didn’t know about:
1. Non-Sexual Physical Touch
This tops the list because of how common it is, the act of being physically close to a partner. Gestures like holding hands, wrapping your arm around your partner’s or gently touching your partner’s shoulders or waist are all examples of non-sexual physical touch.
More innocent ways include hugging or cuddling. The feeling of being in someone else’s arms just calms us down and makes us feel special. It’s definitely one of the most soothing non-sexual intimacy acts one could ask for. Plus, it’s good for health too, reducing fear, stress, and pain.
You could also explore a small peck on the cheeks or lips for a butterfly-cartwheeling in your stomach. It’s a sweet gesture, and in many countries, it’s an expression of affection.
2. Verbal Affection and Admiration
Do you remember when was the last time you complimented your partner? A sweet, no-pressure-to-say-it-back kind of compliment. We bet it’s been a while. Everyone loves to be loved and be told lovely things about themselves.
When there’s verbal expression and admiration, it naturally brings a smile to their face and a calmer energy in their voice and very being. However, lip service alone isn’t enough, while verbal assurance is very important, taking action is even more important.
3. Quick Massages
While this might be similar to a form of non-sexual physical touch, we feel it deserves a category on its own. A short massage brings a sense of closeness, a sweet non-sexual intimacy experience that's great for couples.
- It releases stress after a long day
- It helps them live in the present
- It offers a sensual connection
- It eases muscles and tension
4. Plan Thoughtful and Romantic Dates
It’s not about how fancy the date is, but the thought and effort taken — many girls will agree to this. These experiences shape and grow your relationship into an intimate experience that transcends the physical. Whether it’s reflecting on the journey together or deep conversations, the joy of being together speaks volumes when it isn’t purely about sex.
5. Being Each Other’s Support System
Being able to hold space for your partner when they’re down or showing encouragement towards your partner’s goals and dreams are part and parcel of being someone’s support system. You take part in their journey of life — celebrating and crying with them in all of life’s twists and turns, that’s a healthy example of non-sexual intimacy.
Entering a relationship or partnership with someone takes a lot of work. The key is allowing them to explore new hobbies and being a source of support instead of pressure when times get tough. Spending quality time, investing and building relationships is one of the most fulfilling things you can do, even the late billionaire Steve Jobs’s last words were:
“Treasure love for your family, love for your spouse, love for your friends. Treat yourself well and cherish others. As we grow older, and hopefully wiser, we realize that a $3000 or a $30 watch both tell the same time. You will realize that your true inner happiness does not come from the material things of this world. Whether you fly first class or economy, if the plane goes down—you go down with it.”
6. Send Sweet and Thoughtful Texts to Each Other
If your partner’s love language is words of affirmation, this one’s for you. However, even if it’s not, no one would say no to sweet text messages from their partner. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple text because you don’t know how their day has been and how much it could mean to someone.
7. Have Heart-to-Heart Chats
They say “communication is key” and they’re not wrong. Developing your relationship and non-sexual intimacy is rooted deeply in communication. It’s when we are truly able to be ourselves, bearing our shame, and knowing that we are accepted by our partner, now that’s a heart-to-heart chat.
It’s more than discovering more about each other. But learning how you can be a more present partner as well. When you open up and allow them to open up, you’re ready to embark on a more meaningful and wholesome relationship with one another.
Our Takeaways
While we’re big believers in physical intimacy, strengthening your non-sexual intimacy is just as important. Having that one-of-a-kind spark doesn’t just happen to everyone, so cherishing and nourishing it is essential. Never stop dating, no matter how small, we believe in the power of everyday moments, they’re the little parts that make a full life.
Focus on being the best partner you can be in your relationship. Take time to build on your values and core beliefs, and once you two have gotten in full alignment, your chemistry in and beyond the bedroom will flourish.
