Understanding the 3 Levels of Intimacy in Relationships and How to Tell If Someone

is in Your mind

What Is Intimacy in a Relationship?

Intimacy in a relationship is a feeling of being close, and emotionally connected
and supported.
It means being able to share a whole range of thoughts, feelings and experiences
that we have as human beings.
Upon hearing the word, you probably immediately jumped to thinking about physical
intimacy,
but other forms of intimacy are just as important, especially when it comes to
romantic relationships.

What are the 3 Levels of Intimacy in a Relationship?

Level 1: The Friend Zone

The Friend Zone, also known as the “buddy zone” or “non-romantic zone,” is a
relationship status between 2 people that is exclusively non-romantic.
Usually, one party is friend-zoned and that person usually wants to “get out” of
the friend zone by becoming a potential romantic partner.
If you’re in the friend zone, you might have heard the following:
What they say: “I don’t want to damage what we have between us.” 
What they mean: “I can’t see you romantically.”
What they say: “I can’t believe you don’t have a partner!” 
What they mean: “You’d be good for someone else… but not me.”
What they say: “You’re like a sibling to me!” 
What they mean: “You’re a close friend, like my bro/sis, but I won’t ever like you
in THAT way.”

Friend zones are a tricky situation. The best thing to do is be upfront about it.
If you want to date them,
you should tell them that. If not, then let them know that you're happy being
friends and don't want to ruin what you have.

Level 2: The Romantic or Sexual Zone

According to psychologists, a romantic relationship is when two people form an

intimate connection based on attachment,
interdependence and a sense of their needs being met.

This is the zone that most people want to be in. It's the zone where you feel like
you can just be yourself and share your feelings with your partner.
There are no hidden agendas or ulterior motives. You can just enjoy each other's
company and have a good time.
Level 2 is where you find yourself when you're in a relationship that is easy
going, fun, and carefree.
The two of you are on good terms and communicate well with one another. You're not
constantly fighting or arguing with one another,
but it's also not like Level 1 where everything is perfect all the time either.
Instead, it's more like a partnership where both parties are equal contributors to
making their relationship work for them both .
There are important neuro-transmitters that come into play during this stage.
Dopamine – Is released in our rewards center of the brain and makes us feel like we
are winning a prize when we are with our beloved.
Norepinephrine – This is also called adrenalin and it causes us to literally feel
our love by getting our heart pumping, making us blush
and sweat around our new love partner.

Level 3: The Soulmate Zone

 This zone is about the emotional connection between two people.
The first thing that comes to mind for most people when they think of a soulmate is
their significant other.
But, a soulmate can be anyone who has made an impact on your life, whether it be
in a good or bad way.

The first time you meet someone, you may feel an instant connection and know that
they are the one for you. Or,
you may have a few different relationships with different people before finally
finding your true love.
Either way, once you find that person who seems perfect for you in every way, it
can feel like they complete your life.
The soulmate zone helps couples grow bonds and feel connected to each other. It is
where people decide to depend on their partner.
Two hormones come into play here:
Oxytocin – This is also called the ‘cuddle hormone’ because it is released when we
are touched, make eye contact and feel connected to someone.
Vasopressin – This little chemical comes into play to help us feel long-term
connection with someone and preceded commitment.

But how long does that love last? An article at the Daily Mail says that life-long
love is overrated.
It can start to feel like you are living in a fairytale when you have someone who
loves you unconditionally and fully for the rest of your life.
The reality is that less than 50% of marriages last past 10 years, even with the
best of intentions.
Experts say that love fades with time because there is so much more on our plate
than when you first get together.
There are many other relationships to maintain, commitments and children to raise,
other family members to care for,
and work responsibilities that need attention.

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