Open and Honest Communication

Open and Honest Communication

We often hear how important it is to communicate. We know this. We understand it.

But it is not always easy... especially when it comes to intimate and sexual relations.

For some of us, being really honest with our feelings is difficult. We don't want to appear strange, odd, or unusual. We hesitate to disclose what we desire for fear we will be misunderstood or judged in some negative way.

So, how do we openly and honestly share our most intimate wishes and desires?

Here are five simple ideas that can help bring some open communication into our sexual lives.

First, find an appropriate time to talk. This may sound contrived but sharing deep feelings and emotions while one is preoccupied with the business of the day doesn't always work. If you are distracted, hurried, or otherwise mentally upset, it may not be advantageous to discuss the more sensitive issues. Find a quiet, enjoyable time where a discussion can be uninterupted and respected.

Second, if you are uncomfortable with disclosure, go slowly. There is no need to bring everything out at one time. Approach the discussion gently. The point is not to feel a need to totally alter the relationship but to begin opening the lines of communication.

Third, it is ok to be vulnerable and to disclose feelings of uneasiness. Often mentioning your feelings of fear or uncomfortableness brings understanding and compassion.

Fourth, respect your partner. Listen with your heart, work toward understanding, allow the discussion to be a true dialogue.

Finally, bring playfulness and creativity into the relationship. Intimacy does not need to be serious or routine. Spice it up with some fun and frivolity. When play and joyfulness are part of intimacy, there is often an increased willingness to listen and share, due to an increase level of comfort.

The more one shares their desires and feeling the deeper the intimacy and the more profound the relationship. It may be initially uncomfortable to express some wishes and thoughts but open communication tends to increase the love and bonds of a relationship.