10 Signs Your Relationship Is Strictly Physical

Physical intimacy is one of the key factors that sets apart any relationship from a romantic one. The kissing, the cuddling, the caressing… you get the picture. But is there such a thing as having too much physical intimacy?

Well, maybe—if your relationship is only physical and lacks that emotional intimacy and personal connection, too. Ahead, we’re highlighting key signs of a physical-only relationship, whether this can be a pitfall in your bond, and how to progress your relationship past the sex-heavy connection. 

What Is a Physical-Only Relationship? 

True to its name, a physical-only relationship is one centered around the hot and heavy stuff.  There may be some emotional, intellectual, and romantic vibes, but the bulk of your time is spent being physically intimate. A lot of relationships start here thanks to natural attraction to the other person, but deep, long-lasting connections naturally move past the physical-only stuff.

“Physical attraction is often the spark that draws people together, especially in the early stages of a relationship. It’s part of human biology and can feel thrilling,” says Janice Holland, LPC, a licensed professional counselor. “However, the challenge is recognizing whether the relationship evolves beyond that initial infatuation.”

She adds that if both people want something more, the focus eventually shifts to exploring emotional and intellectual compatibility, as well as shared values.

Signs Your Relationship Relies on Physical Intimacy

So how can you tell if you have a physical-only relationship? Look for these signs: 

• Conversations stay at surface level 
• You don’t know much about each other’s personal lives
• You may not know each other’s families or close friends
• Plans center around being alone together 
• There’s little to no emotional vulnerability
• Texts are short, sporadic, and often late at night (IYKYK)
• Deep conversations feel awkward or forced
• You rarely check in on each other’s emotional well-being
• When you’re together you rarely talk and mostly are physical 
• It doesn’t feel like the relationship is progressing 

Why People Limit Relationships to Be Strictly Physical 

Lots of relationships start with a satisfying physical connection. Sometimes, they get stuck there—either inadvertently or very much on purpose. This can happen because emotional vulnerability is scary; it’s challenging to share our deepest selves with another and there’s always a fear of a broken heart. When people are fearful of progressing the relationship, they find themselves stuck or—in some cases—completely avoidant.

There are, of course, situations when limiting to a physical relationship is the end goal. If both people are on the same page about not wanting to progress the relationship, there’s no shame in rolling in the sheets to your heart’s delight. However, if one or both parties are looking for something more, then you’ll need to work at it. 

Why Connecting in Other Ways Is Important

A purely sexual relationship is all fun and games… until you realize your heart is searching for something more! The truth is that humanity thrives on connection, and many find that having a partner we can be ourselves with is deeply satisfying. 

“We all need connection. We crave intimacy not just on a physical level, but also on an emotional level,” says relationship coach Sophie Orozco. “In today’s mostly monogamous culture, we need an emotional level of intimacy to move the relationship forward. If one wants a relationship to continue and deepen, it needs to be more than just physical.”

Holland agrees, noting that when emotional intimacy is added to a relationship, it creates a foundation of safety, trust, and belonging. “Emotional connection allows for vulnerability, shared goals, and a deeper sense of being seen and valued. It strengthens the bond and creates a space where both partners can grow together,” she says. 

How to Connect Emotionally With Your Partner 

So what’s the trick to evolving your relationship beyond physical indulgence? It’s all about getting curious, going deep (not that kind of deep), and opening up about yourself. 

• Talk more. Plan dates that don’t involve going to the other’s place. Sit across from each other at dinner.
• Be present—both with yourself and your partner. “Tune into your emotions and theirs. Can you listen without jumping to solutions or judgments? True connection happens when both people feel seen and understood,” Holland says.
• Get vulnerable. Open up and be your most authentic self, Orozco says. Share stories and ask meaningful questions.
• Share your world. Introduce each other to your friends, meet each other’s families, and get excited about each other’s hobbies and passions. 
• Express appreciation. “Gratitude goes a long way,” Holland notes. “Take time to notice and verbalize what you genuinely admire about the other person. Appreciation fosters warmth and opens the door to deeper bonding.”
• Take it slow. Give yourself the freedom to wait and see where the relationship goes. “Trust that connection takes time to develop and doesn’t need to follow a predetermined timeline,” Holland says. Relationships that allow space for growth often feel the most genuine.

Following these simple steps is the key to progressing your relationship into a satisfying connection that goes beyond sex. And that’s the foundation for a partnership that will endure.