5 Ways to Increase Intimacy that Don’t Involve Sex

If you’re in a romantic relationship, one of the things you probably desire is to feel closer to that person. You want to get to know them, and feel like they want to get to know you. It doesn’t matter if it’s a new relationship, or one that you’ve been in for years. Emotional intimacy is one of the most important aspects of any romantic relationship and can be one of the most challenging things to develop and maintain. Sure, sex can be a way to experience intimacy, but sex and intimacy are two different things. Emotional intimacy is one of the most important factors for experiencing long-term relationship success.

If you’re interested in improving your emotional connection, here are 5 things you can do that don’t involve sex.

1 - Disconnect to Connect

If you want to build intimacy with your partner, one of the best ways to do so is to disconnect. Not from them, but from technology. We’re not saying move into the mountains where there’s no cell service or Wi-Fi. We’re talking about unplugging for a few hours when you are together. It’s hard to get to know someone and feel connected at a deeper level when you’re staring at a phone screen every few minutes. So maybe you should put the phone away, or at least turn off notifications when you are together. That will force you to fill the time with tip number 2.

2 - Talk the Talk

It may sound cliché, and it’s the basis for almost every relationship advice book ever written, but communication really is the key to building intimacy. Sometimes it is just talking about what you like and dislike, or how your day went. Sometimes it’s talking about serious subjects like death, hope, goals and dreams. Sometimes it’s discussing the status of the relationship, clarifying expectations and setting boundaries so you’re both on the same page. One of the signs of a healthy relationship is the ability to set for hours just talking.

3 - Walk the Walk

Take a hike or go for a walk. Skip the Netflix and chill and spend some time planning dates that give you a chance to get to know the other person. Even group dates can give you a chance to see the person in a new light. And spending time with family will allow you some insights into your partner’s background and some of their quirks.

4 - Be Intentional

Each of the three tips above are great, but they won’t help if you don’t do them. So be intentional because they won’t happen on their own until they become habits. As you plan out your week, plan intentional times and activities geared towards increasing intimacy with your partner. Don’t let other things squeeze these out. Make them a priority.

5 - Evaluate

We know, this doesn’t sound very romantic, but romance doesn’t have to be spur-of-the-moment and spontaneous. You don’t have to do some formal evaluation giving each aspect of your relationship a rating. But every couple weeks or once a month, it’s good to evaluate how the relationship is going. Are you growing closer because you’ve intentionally invested time and effort in getting to know your partner? Or, are you drifting apart because you’re busy or haven’t been intentional? Taking the temperature every few weeks allows you to make adjustments and keep you both feeling close and connected, increasing the level of intimacy you feel.

While there are no guarantees with any relationship, there are things you can do to increase intimacy and prepare you for the long-term success you want in your relationship. If you have questions or want to talk to someone, the Collage staff is here to listen and share our insights. We’d also love to hear how you have been able to increase intimacy in your relationships. Share your tips or ask a question in the comments below.

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My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

June 4, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

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What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.