If you’ve ever been in a relationship or if you’re currently in one, you’ve certainly heard the terms “romance” and “intimacy.” But are they one in the same, or are they two different things? And if they’re different, which is most important for maintaining a healthy relationship?
The truth is, they’re both equally important.
Romance is different for everyone. For some, it’s popping open a bottle of champagne on the beach watching the sunset, while for others it may be cuddling up on the couch with a bowl of popcorn and a rom-com.
These are all mostly gestures and things you “do” with your partner to keep things exciting. Intimacy is about creating a deep connection of love, trust, and vulnerability.
Let’s take a look at the differences between romance and intimacy:
As mentioned, romance is usually acts or gestures, for example: sending your partner flowers or surprising them with a mid-week dinner date at their favorite restaurant. Romantic gestures are often seen as shallow connotations, but they’re actually really important in a relationship. They keep things exciting and wonderful.
Intimacy is a little different. It’s creating a deep, meaningful connection with your partner. Sure, flowers and dinners are amazing and they keep things exciting, but being intimate with your partner involves emotions and behaviors characterized by passion, love and commitment.
Romance is what excites you. Intimacy is what binds you. Not to say that intimacy isn’t exciting, because all those who experience it know that it most definitely can be, but it hits a bit deeper than excitement.
It’s a feeling of fulfillment.
And to build that intimacy, you need quality time with your partner. Get away from life’s stressors once a week and do something intimate together. As much as you have to keep the romance alive, you have to keep the intimacy alive, too.
Sex plays an important role as well. Connect in life, and you will connect in the bedroom. But it’s not something you can force. It comes naturally the more quality time you spend with your partner.
Bless them with romance and fulfill them with intimate moments – that is how you maintain a long-lasting, healthy relationship.
You Don’t Have To Respark Intimacy and Romance Alone
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