- Rebuilding intimacy after a cheating scare isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. Every couple heals at their own pace, but talking things through and focusing on the future helps a lot.
- Don’t rush into the bedroom! Get back on the same emotional page first with deep talks, shared hobbies, and maybe even a trip together. Take care of yourself too!
- Be honest with your partner! Chat openly about your comfort level and what you both need. Make sure you’re on the same page about getting close again.
- If things feel stuck, a therapist can be your wingman! They can offer tips and tricks to navigate the healing journey.
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Physical Intimacy after Infidelity
It is important to remember that rebuilding trust and restarting physical intimacy after infidelity is possible and mandatory if you have decided to forgive and move forward.
In this comprehensive guide, I tell you the essential steps and strategies to help you navigate the challenging path of restoring physical and emotional intimacy after betrayal.
I will not talk much about how to rebuild trust, forgiveness, etc. because that deserves its own post. And should come before restoring intimacy after infidelity.
This post assumes you have already began forgiving and are ready to move forward.
Intimacy after Infidelity
Rebuilding physical intimacy after infidelity is a gradual process that requires both partners to be committed to healing and reconciliation.
It’s important to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and the pace of sexual recovery will vary from couple to couple.
According to a study published in the Journal of Family Psychology, couples who successfully rebuild intimacy after infidelity often share several key characteristics:
- Open and honest communication: These couples were able to talk openly and honestly about their feelings, both positive and negative. They were also able to listen to each other without judgment, enhancing emotional intimacy after infidelity
- A willingness to forgive and let go of resentment: These couples were able to forgive their partners for the infidelity and move on. They did not hold on to anger or resentment, which allowed them to focus on rebuilding their relationship and restoring intimacy after infidelity.
- A focus on the present and future, rather than dwelling on the past: These couples focused on building a new future together, rather than dwelling on the past. They did not let the infidelity define their relationship.
- A commitment to seeking professional help when needed: Many of these couples sought professional help from therapists or counselors. This helped them to understand the impact of the infidelity on their relationship and develop strategies for rebuilding trust and intimacy.
Restoring Intimacy after Infidelity
Rebuilding physical intimacy after infidelity requires patience, understanding, and a commitment to healing.
Start with non-sexual touch. Holding hands, hugging, or cuddling can help rebuild a sense of connection and trust and go a long way towards restoring intimacy after infidelity.
Take the time to reconnect on an emotional level before moving towards sexual intimacy after infidelity.
Rekindling passion after infidelity is not just about resuming physical acts; it’s about rediscovering the joy, connection, and excitement that once existed in the relationship.
I tell couples to make sure they reconnect emotionally, first. Engage in deep conversations, share your feelings, and rebuild trust through consistent actions.
Next, travel and explore new experiences together. Emphasis on NEW. Break out of your routine and try new activities or hobbies together.
This will create new shared experiences and memories. Those are foundational pieces needed for long term growth together.
Also, concerning physical intimacy after infidelity, prioritize self-care. Especially if one or both of you have controlling tendencies.
Make sure you to take care of your physical and emotional well-being to nurture your relationship.
If you are unhappy within, there’s no way someone else will be able to make you happy.
No matter how hard they try, someone else can’t fill your void. Look within yourself first, for the answer.
Emotional Intimacy after Infidelity
Next, be open and honest. In both the good times and the bad, communication is essential, but especially when re-kindling physical and emotional intimacy after infidelity.
Discuss your needs, desires, and boundaries with your partner. This will help ensure that both partners feel comfortable and respected throughout the process.
Make sure you’re on the same page and be honest about your compatibility where intimacy is concerned.
If you’re struggling to overcome the emotional scars of infidelity or rebuild intimacy, consider seeking professional coaching or counseling.
A relationship coach or sex therapist can provide guidance, techniques and support throughout the healing process.
Rebuilding physical intimacy after infidelity is not an easy task, but it is possible with dedication, patience, and a willingness to confront the challenges.
By focusing on emotional healing, open communication, and rediscovering shared passions, couples can emerge from the depths of infidelity and create a stronger, more resilient relationship.
As I mentioned earlier, I often suggest travel as part of relationship therapy. Read this post or watch the video on the Most Romantic Cities in the World to Re-Kindle your Fire!
Also take my Ultimate Intimacy Quiz. The results will give you a starting point of communication on the subject.
