With economic strife causing such a high stress environment, what does a couple do when their sex life begins to dwindle? Certainly not all couples’ bedroom activities are suffering; in fact, some couples are finding they have more time at home due to limited resources for nights on the town, ultimately leading to more sex.
The economy impacts couples in a multitude of ways–from feeling stressed out and anxious to experiencing depression and lowered self esteem. These “self” issues are usually sex drive downers. If they want any chance of renewed sex drive, couples must recognize this and learn how to manage their relationships and sex lives during this time. Below are a few tips on how to improve life in the bedroom during the recession.
Basic Sex 101 in Economic Crisis: Keep yourself as upbeat as possible. Exercise, eat right, and do things that cost little to no money to keep some form of happiness in your life. Practice small pleasures like turning the music on while cleaning the house, taking at least three brisk walks a week while listening to music of your choice, or relaxing in a warm bubble bath. Activities like these will help you relax and de-stress in a time of crisis. No matter what, we need our “me” time. It helps us gain perspective and let go—and letting go of stress is a direct path to sex, especially for women.
Hungry for Skin: Humans have a need for skin-to-skin contact, a phenomenon called “Skin Hunger.” I always suggest to my couples to spend at least one day a week naked (Naked Sundays or Naked Days). If it isn’t possible to spend a whole day naked due to children or other guests in the home, arrange a nude evening or afternoon for at least four hours. Send the kids to a babysitter, and kick anyone else in the house out for the day/evening. Couples truly become more bonded through skin to skin touch.
While embracing, couples produce a neurochemical called Oxytocin from their pituitary gland. Oxytocin allows us to bond and connect with our partners. So the idea is to embrace one another naked and do some daily routines naked. Cook dinner, have a glass of wine, watch a movie…all while completely nude. You gain an enhanced interpersonal connection and some extra fun, as well as a new facet of your relationship. If you have body image issues, it is important to get comfortable with yourself. Spend a bit of time naked alone before you move forward with your partner. And be creative! If your stomach area bothers you, wrap a sash around the belly and let the rest of your skin out.
