You have reasons for wanting to rekindle the intimacy in your life, but you're not sure how to do it. That's okay! We're here to help. All you need is information on how to get started and where to go from there.
You're not in a dating relationship but want to be intimate. You can be close to your friends, family, and pets, and you don't have to have a partner to experience intimacy.
Intimacy is about physical or emotional connection and being yourself around someone else. It might seem like an obvious thing, but many of us don't spend enough time alone so that we know our feelings well enough before we enter into relationships (which is why many people find themselves getting into bad ones).
It's just as vital for you to connect with yourself as it is for others--if not more so! Spending time alone has been shown in studies conducted by Harvard Medical School researchers Paul J Zak & Stephen W Brown "to increase levels of oxytocin (the "love hormone") which promotes feelings of trust between two individuals."
When you're in a relationship, and things aren't going well, it can be hard to know what to do. You may feel like you're the only one who wants sex or intimacy, but this isn't true! Your partner might need some time and patience before they get back into the mood. If your partner is showing signs of being interested again (like flirting), wait until they initiate it before making any moves yourself, or if it takes too long –say, “Hey, what is up?”.
Work on building trust and communication between each other so that when one person does want more intimacy again down the road (or right away!), both partners will be ready for what comes next.
You want to meet someone new and see where it goes; to be open to new experiences, you need to feel comfortable with the person and know they won't judge or hurt you. You also want them to care about your well-being and respect your boundaries. If someone has any of those qualities missing, it's best not to refrain from pursuing anything further with them.
When you are in a dry spell, it's important to remember that intimacy cannot be forced or rushed. The best way to get through an intimacy dry spell is by taking your time and getting to know the person you want to be intimate with or just going crazy and having some fun (if you cannot wait any longer).
There are many reasons why you might be in an intimacy dry spout. You may be dating someone new, or you may need more time to jump into a relationship. Whatever the case, remember that it's okay to take things slow and let yourself get to know someone before jumping into bed with them! Unless you feel an immediate connection and are comfortable jumping in bed with them immediately.
Let me reinforce that you can make your world what you want it to be, and just being open and honest about your needs is an excellent foundation for you and potential partners.
We encourage you to do what is best for you now!
Erin