Art Of Intimacy

    Finding true satisfaction in a relationship means moving past the physical and into the art of intimacy. What is intimacy? It is the ineffable closeness that occurs when two whole people share their lives in deep ways. It requires insight, trust, and openness with yourself and your partner.  Here's how to learn the art of intimacy.  

1. Seek insight. In order to have intimacy in a relationship, you must first know yourself. You cannot share what you don't have. You must have a good grasp on your identity, desires, strengths, and weaknesses before you can share yourself fully with another person. This takes time, willingness, and trust.
2. Gain trust. Trust yourself as you delve into those hidden parts of your identity. Trust that you'll know what to do with it when you find it. When you seek self-knowledge, you'll find things you weren't looking for, and it will be scary. This is part of opening yourself up to life and intimacy. Trust the process. After you trust yourself, it will be easier to trust your partner with what you find. 
3. Give openness. This is the last key to unlocking intimacy with your partner. Be unfailingly honest with yourself and your partner. Intimacy, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, is only possible when it comes from a place of honesty. Share your desires as you find them. Tell your partner when you are unhappy, as well as when you are happy. Sharing the negative along with the positive makes for a three-dimensional closeness that can't happen when you live only in the realm of the positive. 

  When you begin to live a three-dimensional life of honest, open trust with your partner, you will experience a life-changing connection with your partner. You will know her as deeply as you know yourself, and your love will continue to grow with age. Your loss will be her loss; her joy will be yours. You will feel this connection, but will retain ownership of your identity and feelings. This is the art of intimacy.