New relationships can leave you feeling exhilarated and disoriented for many reasons. The excitement of new love brings a whirlwind of emotions—nervous butterflies, flirty texts, and the wonderful feeling as your emotional bond deepens. Isn’t that the magic of new relationships?
While opposites might attract, an emotional connection is essential for maintaining the passion in your relationship.
So, why is an emotional connection so vital? Physical attraction is great, but it’s fleeting. An emotional connection endures.
Whether you’re embarking on a new relationship or reigniting an old one, we’ll explore how emotional attraction and connection function, uncover the secrets and signs, and share various ways to build an emotional connection with your partner.
# Bond Over Interests and ExperiencesFinding common ground can be challenging, especially if you and your partner have different interests. For couples who both enjoy activities like working out, playing video games, watching sports, or cooking, this comes naturally. But what if you're quite different?
Try bonding over new activities together. Consider wine and painting nights, traveling, bungee jumping, escape rooms, or even skinny dipping!
These shared experiences create fun memories and strengthen your emotional bond.
Need proof? A study by the Association for Psychological Science found that 23 female college students enjoyed chocolate more when sampling it with a partner than alone. Shared experiences can enhance enjoyment and connection.
# Don’t Be ShallowPhysical attraction can create a sense of chemistry, but don't let superficial qualities dominate your relationship.
Sure, your partner's looks are appealing, but lasting relationships are built on deeper connections. Get to know your partner beyond their appearance to build a genuine emotional bond.
# Have Sex!Sex has numerous benefits for your relationship. It's a stress reliever, fun, releases endorphins, lowers blood pressure, burns calories, and most importantly, fosters emotional connection.
Oxytocin, the bonding hormone, is released during sex, creating a sense of love and trust. Dr. Daniel Amen suggests this is why friends with benefits often struggle—emotional bonds have already formed.
# Don’t Take Without GivingEveryone has experienced that friend or partner who only talks about themselves and their problems.
After such conversations, you often feel drained. To build an emotional connection, ensure your partner feels uplifted and valued. Be someone who gives, not just takes.
# Share in SpiritualityAccording to Psychology Today, incorporating spirituality into your relationship adds love, kindness, and respect. Whether through religion or personal spiritual beliefs, this can deepen your emotional bond.
Read the Bible together, pray, discuss life's big questions, or explore nature's spirituality to create a profound emotional connection.
# Don’t Fight DirtyUsing emotional disconnection as a punishment during fights is unhealthy and harmful. Avoid name-calling, low blows, and physical reactions.
Maintain your emotional connection by keeping communication open and addressing conflicts constructively.
# Talk, Talk, Talk!While bonding over activities is great, the strongest emotional connections come from daily conversations.
Discuss your favorite memories, personal opinions, or even mundane topics like your preferred chip flavor. Regular communication fosters a deep intellectual and emotional bond.