There will be a need for couples to understand the strength of emotional intimacy and some of its common barriers.  Couples can research the definition and its importance.  There will be a need to know the difference between emotional and physical intimacy.  Some essential role play should occur to begin discussions of trust in emotional intimacy.  Couples can become more vulnerable with each other by creating a safe space for open communication in any capacity.  Quality time is crucial in a marriage; both individuals must not take each other for granted.  There is a need for activities and a balance of individual and couple times.  Couples must learn their love language and express it often.  Little indications make significant strides in a relationship. 

One of the most significant marriage errors is not making each other feel appreciated and safe.  This lack of emotional intimacy often leads to unhealthy conflicts.  Conflict resolution and forgiveness must be at the forefront to keep the marriage strong.  Nurturing the relationship and prioritizing time together are crucial steps to avoid emotional intimacy.  There should be an open dialogue about sexual expectations, desires, and intimacy throughout the marriage.[1]  Explore the concept of love languages and how knowing each other’s love languages can strengthen the relationship. Address the role of intimacy in a marriage, including emotional, physical, and sexual intimacy, and offer advice for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling intimate relationship.  Couples should strive to practice daily to maintain closeness. Ephesians 4:2 New Living Translation: “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient, allowing for each other’s faults because of your love.” Couples should explore exercises to help disperse common myths about sex.[2]

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[1] Philip J. Henry, Lori Marie Figueroa, and David R. Miller, The Christian therapist’s notebook, (New York: Routledge, 2007), 156.

[2] Les Parrott, and Leslie Parrott, Saving Your Marriage Before it Starts, Seven Questions to Ask Before – and After – You Marry, (Grand Rapids: 2015), 31-36.