Physical intimacy is one of the main things that separates our romantic relationships from platonic ones, so the power of physical intimacy can’t be overstated when it comes to fulfilling relationships.
Sure, sex and making out are fun, but what real benefits do we get from them?
At Illicit Encounters, we know a fair bit about physical intimacy and the role it plays in marriages across the country, so we’ve brought together all the ways physical intimacy and touch can benefit your physical and emotional health.
Whether your relationship has intimacy issues or you just want to learn more about why physical intimacy is so important to you, we’ve got everything you need to know about the beauty and magic of physical touch and intimacy.
The Emotional & Physical Benefits of Physical Touch
There are plenty of benefits to physical touch, but did you know just how much it can impact both your emotional and physical well-being?
We put our boffins to work to find out just how important physical touch is for your mental and physical well-being.
The Hormone Boost From Physical Touch
Did you know that physical touch can actually make you feel happier? It releases feel-good hormones like oxytocin, which helps build trust and connection.
Plus, it lowers cortisol, the stress hormone, which means less anxiety and more relaxation.
On top of that, touch has been linked to boosting your immune system, improving sleep, and even easing pain.
Pretty amazing, right?
Reducing Problems With Intimacy
Non-sexual physical touch can do wonders for intimacy issues in a relationship. Simple things like holding hands, hugging, or a comforting touch on the shoulder can go a long way in building an emotional connection.
These little gestures show care and affection without any pressure.
Over time, small acts of touch can help rebuild trust and close any emotional gap, creating a safe and loving space. It makes it easier for both partners to open up and connect, strengthening the bond in a meaningful way.
Making You Feel Loved & Desired
Beyond the health benefits, physical touch is key to building emotional closeness in relationships.
When you share loving touches with your partner, you’re saying “I care about you” without words. It strengthens your bond, makes you feel more secure, and brings more happiness to your relationship.
Sexual Touch Vs. Non-Sexual Touch
Sexual touch and non-sexual touch play distinct yet equally significant roles in a romantic relationship. Sexual touch involves physical intimacy with the intent of arousal or engaging in sexual activity.
| Sexual touch examples include: – Passionate kissing – Caressing erogenous zones – Engaging in sexual acts |
This type of touch fosters physical desire and passion between partners, enhancing the sexual connection and contributing to a deeper sense of intimacy.
On the other hand, non-sexual touch is rooted in comfort, care, and emotional closeness rather than physical arousal.
| Examples of non-sexual touch include: – Holding hands – Hugging – Cuddling – Lightly stroking your partner’s arm |
These touches communicate love, respect, and support, offering reassurance and strengthening the emotional bond without the expectation of sexual activity.
Both types of touch are vital for a fulfilling relationship. Sexual touch keeps the spark alive and reinforces intimacy, while non-sexual touch nurtures emotional security and builds a foundation of trust.
Together, they create a balanced dynamic where both physical and emotional needs are met, fostering a deeper and more satisfying partnership.
The Importance of Physical Contact in Long-Term Relationships
Keeping physical contact alive—both sexual and non-sexual—is key to making long-term arrangements, relationships and marriages work. Touch is one of the most natural ways to show love, commitment, and affection.
It’s natural for the infatuation you felt at the start of your relationship to wane over time, even if the love you have for each other remains. Things like the stresses of life or having children create natural barriers to the intimacy you once shared.
But that’s not a reason to let physical contact slide altogether.
Like we said at the start of this post, physical intimacy is the main thing that separates romantic relationships from platonic ones, and we’re all red-blooded creatures at heart, so keeping physical intimacy as a priority is key to being fulfilled and happy in a long-term relationship.
Common Barriers to Physical Contact in Long-Term Relationships
Stress can be one of the biggest obstacles to physical intimacy in long-term relationships.
Juggling work, finances, or personal responsibilities can leave you feeling drained and emotionally checked out, making it hard to focus on connecting with your partner.
Parenthood doesn’t make it any easier either.
Between the lack of privacy, disrupted routines, and pure exhaustion, raising kids can really take a toll on your romantic life.
Then there’s the gradual loss of sexual attraction.
As time goes on and the excitement of a new relationship fades, some couples find it harder to keep the spark alive. Physical changes from ageing or lifestyle shifts can also play a part in this.
And let’s not forget about hormones. Imbalances—like low testosterone, menopause, or thyroid issues—can directly impact libido and make intimacy feel like an uphill battle.
What Happens When There’s No Intimacy in a Relationship?
If there’s no intimacy in a relationship, it can cause a lot of tension and dissatisfaction, but you don’t have to put up with it.
Some causes of intimacy issues can be resolved with professional intervention from healthcare professionals to fix hormonal or physical issues, or with couples therapy that both sides are invested in.
With that being said, some causes of dwindling intimacy can’t be overcome, even with medical intervention.
Of course, the obvious solution to a lack of physical intimacy and the resulting unhappiness is to call it quits and separate from your partner. However, this is a fairly extreme step that can cause further anguish, especially if children are involved.
The alternative is to explore an extramarital affair to get your physical needs met while improving the emotional connection you share with your partner.
Using a site like Illicit Encounters allows you to have low-risk physical affairs that serve to improve your relationship instead of destroying it.
If you don’t believe us, just see what our users have to say…
| ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Michael, West Sussex It has almost certainly allowed us both to remain happy and married rather than just married. |
| ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Poppy, Warwickshire It’s definitely saved my marriage. I’d be lost without the lovely guys I’ve met on here. |
| ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Sash, Kilmarnock Thank you for providing such a great and exciting service, which I believe actually helps to keep marriages fresh and alive. |
| ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ RogerG2012 Having an affair has changed my life, since I am now a much kinder, jollier and happier person at home. So, thanks to IE for making this possible! |
How to Improve Your Relationship Through Intimate Touch & Sex
Exploring intimacy and sexual experiences outside your relationship might actually bring unexpected benefits to your marriage. It can boost your sense of fulfilment and happiness by letting you explore your desires and feel appreciated in new ways.
This kind of experience can help you feel more balanced and confident, while also taking some of the pressure off your partner to meet every emotional and physical need.
With less stress and expectations, both of you can come back to the relationship with fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and a more positive outlook, creating a healthier dynamic at home.
Do You Need an Emotional Connection to Be Physically Intimate?
Physical intimacy doesn’t always have to come with an emotional connection. For some people, being close to someone physically can be about meeting certain needs or desires without a deeper emotional bond.
Having a purely physical casual relationship outside of marriage can sometimes give individuals a chance to explore their sexuality or fill gaps they feel are missing, while keeping their emotional connection firmly within the marriage.
Just make sure to actively monitor how you’re feeling about your partner and anyone you’re hooking up with on the side to avoid things getting tangled and messy.
| Of course, it’s always best to be as upfront and honest with your partner as possible. However, using a site like Illicit Encounters allows you to explore this solution for your marriage safely and securely with other people who are in similar positions. |
Reconnect With the Power of Touch With Illicit Encounters
If you’re feeling touch-starved and yearning for more physical connection, Illicit Encounters provides a discreet way to have your needs met without jeopardising your existing relationship.
By connecting with other married individuals who are also seeking to fulfil unmet needs, you can find a safe and understanding environment to explore these desires.
Whether you’re looking to chat, build a connection, or arrange discreet meetings, the platform offers a secure space tailored to your situation.
Set up your free account today and take the first step towards reigniting the power of touch in your life.
What is the Strongest Form of Intimacy?
The strongest kind of intimacy is emotional intimacy. It’s when two people open up, share their deepest thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities. This builds trust, connection, and understanding, bringing them even closer together.
Why Do I Crave Physical Intimacy So Much?
Feeling the need for physical intimacy is totally natural—it’s about craving closeness, comfort, and connection. Physical touch actually releases oxytocin, also called the “love hormone,” which helps us bond, lowers stress, and makes us feel happier and more secure, which is why relationships without intimacy are so hard.
What Are Physically Intimate Things to Do?
Holding hands, hugging, cuddling, kissing, giving massages, or just sitting close can really nurture physical intimacy. Even little things like brushing someone’s hair or a gentle touch can create a strong feeling of connection and love.
Can Couples Therapy Improve Sexual Intimacy?
Absolutely! Couples therapy can really help improve sexual intimacy. It’s great for breaking down communication barriers, working through conflicts, and building a deeper emotional connection. It helps partners understand each other’s needs and desires, creating a stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationship.
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