Cohabiting can bring significant benefits to romantic partnerships, such as financial stability and greater emotional support.
It may also have some drawbacks. One potential downside is that living together can reduce the anticipation and novelty that was once an integral part of their sexual relationship. When people lived apart, they were forced to make time for each other, which increased the desire to connect physically. Now that cohabitation has become more common, couples may find themselves struggling to maintain this level of desire. The following tips can help them keep the spark alive:
1. Communicate openly about your needs: Couples should talk honestly about what they need and want from their physical relationship. This includes discussing any issues related to libido, frequency, type of sex, preferences, etc. Open communication will build trust and understanding between partners.
2. Try new things: Exploring new activities together, such as roleplaying or dressing up in costumes, can add excitement and variety to your intimate life. Don't be afraid to experiment with different positions, locations, or even fantasies. This can help you discover new ways to connect and feel closer to each other.
3. Schedule date nights: Plan regular times when you can focus exclusively on each other without distractions like work or household chores. This can create a sense of anticipation and heighten the connection between you. You could try going out to dinner, taking a walk, or simply staying in and watching a movie together.
4. Use technology wisely: Technology can enhance physical relationships by providing visual stimulation through videos or messages.
It should not replace face-to-face interaction, as it lacks the intimacy of touch and body language. Limit phone use during dates or sex to avoid becoming desensitized to digital interactions.
5. Avoid routine: Routine is the enemy of passion! Do something unexpected every once in a while, like cooking a special meal or taking a surprise trip somewhere. Surprise is an important element of attraction, so keep things fresh and spontaneous.
6. Keep the spark alive outside the bedroom: Physical attraction goes beyond sex. Show affection and appreciation for your partner throughout the day, whether that means holding hands, giving hugs, or complimenting them. These small gestures will remind them of how much they mean to you.
7. Be patient and kind: Maintaining desire takes effort and patience. Remember that people change over time and their needs may evolve. Practice empathy and understanding rather than criticism or judgement. Focus on the positive aspects of your relationship instead of dwelling on negative ones.
Cohabitation can reduce sexual desire but couples can overcome this challenge by communicating openly, trying new things, scheduling date nights, using technology wisely, avoiding routines, showing affection, and being patient with each other. With some creativity and commitment, any couple can continue to enjoy a fulfilling and exciting physical connection.
How do couples maintain desire when cohabitation reduces the anticipation and novelty that previously fueled sexual connection?
Couples can reduce this loss of anticipation and novelty by actively seeking out new experiences together and regularly engaging in novel activities outside their routine to keep things exciting. This could include trying new restaurants, going on vacations or weekend trips, taking up hobbies or sports together, or even exploring different types of music or art.