Sexual and emotional intimacies are inextricably linked. A marriage that loses its passion becomes merely a good friendship and ceases to be a true marriage – which ultimately even ruins the friendship.
In the attached article, Dr. Heller reviews the vital importance of maintaining a healthy balance between emotional and physical intimacy in order for a marriage to thrive (and survive). He does a great job of explaining the vital differences between men and women from both biological and psychological perspectives. While the article is simplistic and narrowly geared to the heterosexual marital relationship, it is a useful resource to prompt an open conversation between two partners. As he mentions, effective communication plays an important role before, during, and after physical intimacy no matter what degree of experience either partner has. He also cites that there is a correlation between increased intimacy and decreased emotional conflict. Bottom line is that when 2 people feel more connected, they tend to feel more positive about their relationship in general.