AwakenYou in Your Marriage

The Awkward Middle: What It Takes to Restart Sexual Intimacy in Marriage

Christine Bongiovanni-Stiff Episode 257

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0:00 | 26:34

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There’s a stage in many marriages that almost nobody talks about.

Sex hasn’t disappeared completely… but it also isn’t happening regularly anymore. Weeks—or even months—go by, and both partners notice the distance but feel unsure how to bring it up.

In this episode, Christine Bongiovanni explores what she calls “the awkward middle” of intimacy—that quiet stage where sexual connection has faded and the silence around it begins to feel uncomfortable.

Christine shares a personal story from her own marriage and reflects on what she and Jeff discovered along the way about initiation, resentment, healing old beliefs about sex, and why rebuilding intimacy often begins with curiosity rather than pressure.

If you’ve ever wondered how couples move from awkward distance back toward connection, this conversation will help you feel seen and begin exploring what might be happening beneath the surface.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Why sexual disconnection often develops slowly in long-term marriages
• How initiation patterns can quietly create resentment
• The hidden stories many people carry about sex and desirability
• Why curiosity is the first step toward rebuilding intimacy
• A simple reflection exercise to better understand your own experience

If this episode resonates with you, Christine would love to hear your story. You can share your experience by emailing christine@christinebongiovanni.com
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You can also download the Gentle Start Guide to Better Communication to begin opening up difficult conversations with your spouse.

And if you'd like personal support navigating your relationship, schedule a Courageous Love Conversation with Christine.

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Does communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what’s true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.

Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now!

Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

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