The Intimacy Ladder

A gradual re-approach to physical and emotional intimacy:

• Level 1: Proximity — sit closer, share space without pressure
• Level 2: Non-sexual touch — hand-holding, hugs, a hand on the shoulder
• Level 3: Vulnerability — share one honest feeling per day, starting small
• Level 4: Deeper talk — longer conversations about something other than the crisis
• Level 5: Playfulness — laughter, teasing, inside jokes; lightness signals safety

Skipping levels backfires. The body needs to feel safe at each stage before it can open to the next. Pace is everything.