Message him or not ?

Me and this guy dated for a bit, but then we realized we aren’t ready and maybe we can try later in the future - we agreed to stay friends. However we’re both hurting & it’s been tough. We can’t even talk on the phone as it’ll hurt too much to hear each others voices - it’s sad imo. I wanted to text him I miss you hope you’re doing well.. should I or will that come across as needy and desperate?