Lack of Intimacy: Rekindling Your Connection

April 2025

Intimacy is the glue that holds relationships together. When it fades, couples often feel disconnected and unfulfilled.

Causes of Intimacy Issues

  • Stress and busy lifestyles
    • Unresolved conflicts
      • Health problems or medications
        • Emotional distance
          • Lack of communication about needs and desires

            How Lack of Intimacy Affects Relationships

            • Decreases overall relationship satisfaction
              • Can lead to feelings of rejection or loneliness
                • May cause partners to seek connection elsewhere
                  • Often results in increased conflict
                    • Can mask deeper relationship issues

                      The Gottman Method’s Approach

                      Dr. Gottman’s research shows that intimacy is built on a foundation of friendship and emotional connection:

                      1. Build Love Maps: Deepen your knowledge of each other’s worlds
                        1. Express Fondness and Admiration: Cultivate a culture of appreciation
                          1. Turn Towards: Respond positively to bids for connection
                            1. Create Shared Meaning: Foster a sense of purpose together

                              Techniques and Exercises

                              • The 6-second Kiss: A daily ritual to increase physical affection
                                • Appreciation Exercise: Share three things you appreciate about your partner daily
                                  • Intimacy Inventory: Discuss and align on intimacy needs and desires
                                    • Sensate Focus: A series of touching exercises to rebuild physical intimacy

                                      When to Seek Help

                                      Consider professional guidance if:

                                      • Intimacy issues persist despite your efforts
                                        • There’s a significant mismatch in intimacy needs
                                          • Physical intimacy has ceased entirely
                                            • You feel uncomfortable discussing intimacy with your partner

                                              Revive Your Intimate Connection

                                              Restoring intimacy is possible with the right tools and guidance. I can help you reconnect on a deeper level.