The Hallmarks of a Strong Marriage

When we hear the word “marriage,” we typically assume a close, intimate relationship. We envision a couple who finishes each other’s sentences, knows how the other likes their eggs cooked, and anticipates the other’s needs. This may be true in the beginning of the marriage, but too often, marriages lose this closeness over time. The couple becomes disconnected, personal details are forgotten, and the intimacy wanes.

But the fact is that a marriage needs intimacy in order to thrive. Intimacy is the substance which “glues” two people together and enables the couple to enjoy a lasting relationship.

What is Intimacy?
By definition, intimacy means a close, personal relationship or knowledge of someone or something. Marriage intimacy goes beyond knowing just your partner’s preferences and dislikes; it’s more than a familiarity with his routine and habits. When two people are able to share their innermost thoughts, feelings, beliefs and values—the most essential parts of themselves—without any kind of inhibition, then true intimacy is achieved.

Building Blocks of Marriage Intimacy
Creating intimacy in your marriage is a skill that everyone should learn. It is essential in forging the connection between two people that is the cornerstone of a strong relationship. Here is a list of key components to creating that deep connection. Consider it a marriage guide to intimacy:

Attention—creating intimacy involves consistent attention, not only for one another, but for the relationship itself.
Respect—without respect for each other and the relationship,intimacy is impossible.
Communication—regular, healthy verbal communication is always an important factor in establishing openness, familiarity, and trust.
Trust—trusting your partner, and creating an environment where your partner can trust you, allows both of you to safely express your feelings.
Caring—showing your partner tenderness lets him know how important he is to you.
Honesty—saying and doing what is truthful and honest goes without saying in any relationship.
Acceptance—accepting each other’s personality quirks, bothersome habits, and even meddling relatives, will foster understanding between the two of you.

All of these are hallmarks of a deep, intimate bond. But partners in any good marriage will also take the time to listen, live in the present and avoid past issues, and encourage each other’s personal growth. After all, marriage partners should complement each other, not overshadow or stifle one another.

Creating intimacy means sharing the best, and the worst, of you with your partner in the best possible way.

Originally posted at SimplyRedHot.com, a source for tips to fix marriage challenges and reconnect with your partner.

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