We know that stress is an unavoidable part of life. Between work, family, and other daily responsibilities, it can be hard to switch off and relax. But did you know that all that stress can have a negative impact on our relationship with ourselves and our intimate relationships? When we're tense and stressed out, we're less likely to feel close to our partner and more likely to feel emotionally disconnected. Don't worry, we have some handy tips to help you get back on track!
Stress response: "fight, flight or freeze" mode
First things first, it's important to understand that when we're stressed, our body goes into "fight, flight, or freeze" mode. This means that we're fixated on survival, and our body focuses on escaping the stress it's facing. Unfortunately, intimacy takes a backseat in this situation, and stress can create a disconnect between you and your partner, causing you to build walls instead of fostering closeness. Understanding that stress can hijack our bodies from feeling connected is essential for creating healthy relationships.
Stress and decreased desire
Feeling stressed out can be a total drag, not only does it take its toll on your mental state, but it also affects your sex life. When you're stressed, desire can go out the window. What started as just an irritable mood can end up becoming an obstruction in enjoying intimacy with your partner. So next time you're feeling down, remember that taking some time to de-stress could be the key to rekindling the flame!
Intimacy and anxiety and depression
Stress can also lead to anxiety and depression, both of which can make it difficult to feel close to your partner. When you're under a lot of stress, it may seem like emotions are running wild, and it's impossible to open up and be emotionally intimate with your partner. Stress can also lead to feelings of sadness and helplessness, which only make it more difficult to participate in activities or conversations with your partner that create intimacy. It's important to talk openly with your partner when such feelings arise so that both people can come together more strongly as a team and have a clearer understanding of what the other needs for comfort during stressful times.
Work worries can be a major drag on intimacy
If your stress levels are constantly through the roof due to looming work obligations or any other difficulty you're facing, it's easy to become 'checked out' during the intimate moments you share together. When this happens too often, both parties' feelings of disconnection start to magnify, creating a wedge between both of you. It's important to recognise that managing stress and expectations in order to create a safe space for intimacy is key for lasting relationships. That said, taking a break from all those anxieties should never be overlooked!
Communicating your stress is key
It's often hard to let go of stress and open up emotionally to your partner, but it's vital for maintaining a healthy relationship. We all know how much stress can interfere with our ability to be intimate with each other - so why not discuss it? Communication is key when it comes to being in sync, and letting your partner know what has been causing you stress can pave the way for them to help create an atmosphere that supports emotional closeness. It may seem difficult, but talking openly about your worries will make sure you stay connected instead of becoming distant or closing off.
Take some time for yourself every day
You are amazing and deserve to take some time for yourself every day. Life can get crazy busy with all the responsibilities we have to juggle, but don't forget about the importance of "me-time" to keep you feeling relaxed and empowered. Taking care of yourself is not selfish, it's necessary! Try to incorporate activities that make you feel relaxed and pampered, like reading a book or taking a warm bath. Don't forget that self-care is not just about de-stressing but also about sparking creativity and ideas. Taking time for yourself can help you bring new dynamics and satisfaction into your relationship.
So, take a deep breath and give yourself permission to indulge in some "me-time" every day. You've got this, girl!
We all know that stress can wreak havoc on our bodies and minds, and it can even affect our relationships with our partners. But taking care of yourself can have a positive ripple effect on your entire life. So, make sure to communicate with your partner about what's causing you stress and take a step back to give yourself some breathing room. Remember, you deserve to prioritise your own well-being, and a relaxed and creative mind can bring new dynamics and satisfaction into your relationship. So go ahead, take some time for yourself, and don't forget to enjoy the journey!