We live in a world where we explore and embrace personal identity more than ever. However, one aspect remains a challenge in our modern world. That’s the mystery and misunderstanding of our sexuality. As a society, we’re gradually recognising the importance of exploring this integral part of our individual experience. Embracing our sexual identity isn’t about our physical aspect only. This journey is about what brings us joy and fulfilment. 

The biological aspect of sexuality is embedded in our genes and physical responses. It plays a significant role in shaping who we are. We’re also moving towards a more open dialogue about sexuality. It’s essential to recognise that sexuality is diverse and personal. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to exploring and embracing it. What matters most is the journey towards understanding and accepting our own sexual identities. 

In this quest for sexual self-awareness, many find that exploring different environments, such as sex clubs, can be enlightening. These spaces offer unique opportunities to explore our sexuality in safe and consensual surroundings. It’s a great way to express and explore without judgement or fear. This exploration may lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves, fostering more profound connections with our partners. 

Understanding Sexuality

Understanding human sexuality is a multifaceted journey. It delves into the depths of our feelings, thoughts, sexual orientation, gender identity and behaviour towards others. 

Sexuality encompasses a spectrum of our biological and physical aspects. This complexity makes sexuality challenging to define precisely due to varied historical and cultural contexts. However, we can broadly say that sexuality is our ability to experience pleasure from sexual practices and activities. 

Exploring the diverse landscape of sexuality, we realise it’s a personal journey, often evolving. It’s normal to feel uncertain while discovering what resonates with us. Some are attracted to the opposite gender, known as heterosexuals. Yet, others find attraction to the same gender, termed homosexuals. 

Bisexuality describes those drawn to both genders, with varying degrees of attraction. Additionally, asexuality refers to minimal or no sexual attraction, which is distinct from choices like abstinence. These orientations, including others like pansexuality, highlight the spectrum of human sexuality.

Gender identity is a crucial aspect of our sexual identity, too. It reflects how we perceive and present ourselves. Our gender identity extends beyond the traditional male and female classifications. It entails a range that includes non-binary, genderqueer, transgender and more. This self-concept shapes our interaction with the world. It influences our sexual orientation and preferences. 

Biological Factors of Sexuality

Sexuality isn’t only about how we feel or the person we’re attracted to. A big part of it is biological. Hormones like testosterone (more in men) and estrogen (more in women) play a huge role. We all have both but in different amounts. These hormones help shape how we develop sexually and how we act on those feelings.

Our sex drive and how we behave sexually can also be pretty complex. Sometimes, what we desire and what we do can be different. For men, hormones like vasopressin kick in during arousal. It boosts their sex drive. In women, estrogen and progesterone go up and down with their menstrual cycle. This fluctuation influences their sexual motivation.

There’s also the brain’s role in all this. Parts of the brain, like the hypothalamus, can affect our sexual function. If this part doesn’t work right, it might lessen sexual function. 

Understanding biological factors is critical as it shows our sexuality isn’t about choice or preference. It’s a big mix of biology, our brains and hormones flowing through our body.

One final point on biological factors of sexuality in understanding the nature of sex. We’re all wired to crave sex. The fundamental reason is we exist because of sex. We’re part of the animal kingdom, so we’ll perpetually lookout for sex. Engaging in sexual thoughts, feelings, and activities releases feel-good hormones in your brain. This consideration can help us enjoy sex and embrace our sexuality. 

Role of Communication and Openness

We need to communicate openly about our sexuality. It enhances our intimacy and fosters strong, healthy sexual relationships. Couples who have an openness in discussing their feelings, desires and boundaries experience greater sexual satisfaction often. Open communications include respect for each other’s levels of comfort and preferences. 

Talking to each other about boundaries is essential for intimate relationships. We must discuss the type of physical closeness that we feel comfortable with. Other factors to discuss may be the way we like to be touched or the words we can use during sex. We have to learn to talk about our preferences or restrictions. However, these boundaries can change over time. Learn to revisit boundaries frequently so we’re always on the same page as our partner. 

We shouldn’t assume what our partner wants. Talking candidly about our fantasies and expectations is vital. It means that we must be willing to listen to our partner as much as we want to tell them about our needs. We should take time to understand the perspectives and feelings of the other person. Communication at this level also means that we shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions or make requests, even if it may make us uncomfortable initially. 

Another important point in communication and openness is trust. Trust is essential between two intimate individuals. Remember that saying no to our partner is perfectly fine. If something doesn’t feel good or right to our partner or us, we must let them know. However, it’s good to keep an open mind about new experiences when done respectfully and with significant consideration of our partners. 

Embracing Our Sexual Discovery

Exploration of our sexual self-discovery and openness can be a fascinating venture for us. Embracing our sexuality is a journey of understanding, acceptance and growth. It means understanding factors such as gender identity and sexual orientation is essential to developing sexual health and a deeper connection with ourselves. 

We must acknowledge the biological roots of our desires and foster open communication in our relationships. Each step leads us towards a more fulfilling and authentic expression of ourselves. Our sexuality journey is diverse, and our personal experiences enrich us. It’s not only about our satisfaction but about creating a society that values and respects the complexity of our human sexuality.

Divorce can shake anyone’s confidence to the core, especially when it comes to dating afterward. But this is also an opportunity for an exciting fresh start. It is a time to rediscover yourself and gracefully step back into the dating scene on your own terms. Instead of being overwhelmed, this article will teach you simple, manageable steps to build confidence and start dating. Before you know it, you’ll be dating with enthusiasm and optimism again, thanks to these easy post-divorce tips.

#1 Rediscover Yourself First

Getting back into the dating world after a long break can stir up feelings of anxiety. If you’re a man, when you meet new girls online, you can start losing interest quickly. Similarly, women who just got divorced can feel equally unsettled. However, what you need to do is to be kind to yourself and take time to reconnect with who you are now.

Many experts have advised that you should spend some time doing activities purely for your own enjoyment first before worrying about dating again. Here are some ideas to rediscover yourself again:

• Revisit hobbies you used to love but haven’t done in years, or try something completely new that intrigues you. Pottery, hiking, painting, learning guitar — the options are endless when it comes to pursuing personal passions.
• Consider booking a solo trip somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit, even if it’s just a weekend getaway. Travel is very cathartic and a great chance to gain confidence and clarity.
• Make time for self-care, like getting a new haircut, testing out new recipes, and taking relaxing baths. Relearn what makes you feel best as an individual.

The time after a divorce offers a rare opportunity to rediscover forgotten parts of your identity. By focusing inward first, you’ll organically build up self-assurance that shines through when you do put yourself back out there, whether you meet someone new online or a new offline.

#2 Get a Post-Divorce Makeover

A divorce can make you feel like a shadow of your former self. An easy way to reclaim your confidence is by revamping your physical look to match who you are within. Consider the following makeover:

New Hairstyle Equals New You

Treat yourself to a brand-new hairstyle. You can go for a bold new color, a set of flattering highlights, or even some hair extensions for extra length and volume. This single change alone can make you feel vibrant and renewed.

Revamp Your Wardrobe

Go on a shopping spree for new date-night outfits that accentuate your best assets. Flirty tops, sexy dresses that show some leg, and even lingerie can bring some excitement back into the dating process.

Pamper Yourself With Beauty Treatments

Don’t forget the importance of beauty maintenance, too—book appointments for manicures, pedicures, facials, and eyebrow shapings. Looking polished gives an instant extra dose of self-confidence.

The physical transformation process lets you take control and intentionally create an appearance that matches who you aspire to be after divorce.

#3 Start Slowly in Low-Pressure Social Settings

Becoming an active dater again after divorce may seem intimidating. Instead of jumping straight into one-on-one dinner dates, ease yourself back into circulation in more casual, low-stakes situations first.

Group Outings to Get Your Social Groove Back

Going out with a few close friends or family members can gently ease you back into social dynamics in a supportive setting. You can practice talking and flirting harmlessly without the pressure of it leading to a more formal date.

Here are a few great ideas for group outings to start with:

• Fun cooking class
• Wine tasting
• Trivia or game night at a bar
• Dance classes like salsa or ballroom

The lighthearted nature and built-in activities get conversations going naturally, so you can shake off some cobwebs before diving into solo dating.

Online Chatting to Get Comfortable Flirting

Before agreeing to meet any online matches in real life, chat over messaging to vet compatibility more. This buffers the shock of re-entering the modern dating world and builds up some flirting muscle again.

Trading messages also allows you to take things at your own pace as you gauge chemistry. As your banter comfort level increases, move to set up a casual first meetup.

#4 Be Upfront Yet Brief When You Do Start Dating

Once you begin one-on-one dating, you’ll likely feel compelled to discuss your divorce or relationship history early on. Be honest, but aim to keep these conversations brief and not let them dominate the overall first date.

How to Mention Your Divorce Initially

It’s perfectly acceptable to say something simple like, “I went through a divorce recently after being married for X years.”

Reassure your date casually that it was an amicable split and you have both moved on. This shows you are open but not hung up on hashing out drama from the past.

Keeping First Dates Fun and Light

After imparting basic details, steer the conversation to keeping things upbeat. Focus on asking your date questions about their interests, funny stories from their life, and what they like to do for fun. Save more profound talks about the whys and hows of your divorce for much later when you know each other better.

Conclusion

While dipping a toe back into dating after divorce feels scary, regular practice builds confidence. Even if some first dates don’t quite work out how you hoped, reflect on what went well and what didn’t, then try again. Stay true to rediscovering yourself, taking things slowly, and not letting the past define you.

Valentine’s Day, the holiday of love, can sometimes bring a mix of emotions for those who are single. Many individuals may feel left out or lonely when surrounded by couples enjoying romantic gestures and spending the day together.

That doesn’t have to be the case for you, though. February 14 is a good day to be single, whether you’re just fresh from a breakup or have chosen to be single for a lifetime. Take this opportunity for self-love, self-reflection, and new experiences. Who knows? You might discover that not being in a relationship on Cupid’s Day can be fun!

So, let’s explore five practical tips to help you make the most of Heart’s Day without a romantic partner. Grab your favorite food and your journal, and let’s start planning!

1. Connect With Loved Ones

Why not begin your day by connecting with the cherished individuals in your life? Valentine’s Day is a great chance to celebrate and nourish the significant relationships in your life that go beyond romantic love.

Imagine this: in the morning, you can arrange a virtual call to catch up with your family and closest friends. Get together, share stories from the past, or enjoy a good laugh in each other’s company. You could even organize a lively virtual activity with them, such as playing games or preparing a meal together.

If you’re up for it, consider ordering flowers Valentines Day. Even sending a rose to the ones you value can brighten their day and show them how much you care.

2. Take A Social Media Detox

Next, why don’t you try taking a break from social media on Heart’s Day? While it can be tempting to browse through social media and see all the posts about happy couples and their romantic gestures, it may not be the best choice for your overall well-being. Stepping away from social media allows a valuable chance to focus on self-care and personal development.

So, once you’re done catching up with your loved ones, you may deactivate your social media accounts for the day. Unplug and engage in activities that bring you joy. Even just for a few hours, your heart would thank you for breaking free from comparison.

3. Indulge In A Relaxing Spa Session

Now that you’re off social media, it’s time to treat yourself to a spa experience. Don’t you deserve a bit of self-indulgence? Unwind with a luxurious massage, rejuvenating facial, or fragrant bath fit for royalty.

Here are the steps to follow:

• Set the mood by dimming the lights, lighting fragrant candles, and playing relaxing music.
• Enhance your bath experience by adding bath salts or aromatic oils. Release tension and unwind.
• Pamper your skin with a face mask or scrub whilst in the bath. Allow your skin to absorb the nourishing benefits.
• Indulge in a DIY manicure and pedicure while wearing a dressing gown after your bath. Choose your favorite nail polish colors to refresh your look. Remember to moisturize your hands and feet for added self-care.
• Relax your muscles by applying massage oil or lotion. Even if you don’t have a partner, use your hands or a vibrating roller to give yourself a massage.

Remember, this bubble bath is about making yourself feel loved and cared for, so take your time and enjoy every moment.

4. Try Something New

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace the spirit of adventure and experience something you’ve always wanted to try.

For example, you may explore the world of painting or pottery. Start by enrolling in a local art workshop that specializes in watercolor painting or acrylic pouring. Are you interested in attempting a new workout routine or dance style? Then, sign up for a fitness class in your nearest gym. Not only will you learn something new, but you might also meet people who share your interests.

If staying indoors is more your style, experiment in the kitchen by trying a new recipe or baking sweets. Have you tried Thai or Moroccan cuisines like mango sticky rice and couscous? How about dobos torte, croquembouche, or soufflé? You might surprise yourself with your culinary skills!

Whatever it may be, exploring new hobbies or activities can bring a sense of excitement and fulfilment. It’s a reminder that your joy doesn’t solely rely on having a romantic partner.

5. Enjoy A Solo Dining Experience

At last, cap off your Valentine’s Day with a solo meal. Dine in at your favorite restaurant or order a takeaway cuisine you want to try. Just imagine savoring every bite of grilled salmon with lemon butter sauce. Visualize the taste of mimosas, a refreshing and flavorful mix of champagne and orange juice.

If you’re at home, why not elevate your dining experience? Set the scene with Clair de Lune, fairy lights, and a crisp white tablecloth with rose petals. Treat yourself as if you were dining with someone special because, after all, you deserve it.

Finding Joy In Singledom

On the 14th of February, you won’t have to feel resentful as you watch other couples celebrate their relationship. Instead, enjoy your self-care routines and be open to new experiences. You might also take this opportunity to be grateful for the relationships and affection that already enrich your life.

Remember, love comes in many forms, and this day is a reminder to love and value yourself. Happy Valentine’s Day to you, fabulous single soul!

Technology is evolving constantly, and with new social media platforms scrambling for our limited attention, it’s easy to get burnt out and overwhelmed trying to connect online. Many of us long for a simpler time, wondering, “Do chat rooms still exist?”

Well, the good news is: they do, and I’m not talking about…those chat rooms.

On our list of top chat sites, we’re keeping it safe and simple. We’re talking about free chat rooms to make friends by choosing who you get to talk to, not praying that you get lucky on a sketchy roulette site.

So without further ado, here are the best places to make friends online in 2024.

Do keep in mind these are not places for kids and this is an list of those over 18 adults!

Streamate

Streamate is one of the best chat sites for spending some quality time with a new online friend. The site is free to join, and as soon as you log in, you’ll be able to chat with thousands of potential new friends.

Streamate’s homepage is well-organized with thumbnails previewing the site’s top chat rooms. Tags and categories on the sidebar make it even easier to find the exact chat room you’re looking for. You’ll also have the option to choose your conversation partner by gender or even chat with a couple. Clicking on any stream’s thumbnail will take you straight into Guest Chat mode where you can start a conversation right away.

If you like your new conversation partner, adding them to your personal list of “Favorites” and turning on notifications will alert you to their next stream and ensure you’ll be able to see them when they go live without digging through hundreds of suggested chat rooms. While in Guest Chat, you can liven up the conversation or simply show your appreciation by sending “Gold,” Streamate’s in-site currency.

After a while, you may even want to get to know your new friend a bit better. This is where Streamate really shines. Guest chat is great for light small talk, but to really spend some quality time with your favorite streamer, start a Paid Chat to steal them away from other guests.

There are two primary types of Paid Chat modes: Private and Exclusive Chat. The main difference is that Private Chat will allow other paying guests to join in on the conversation while Exclusive Chat, Streamate’s most popular format, is completely one-on-one. In either mode, you can opt to turn your camera and/or microphone on to chat hands-free with the site’s Cam2Cam feature.

If you’re more of a party person, try checking out Streamate’s GOLD Shows. These shows create a lively party atmosphere encouraging multiple members to join in on discussing pre-made topics with the only real drawback being that Cam2Cam will be disabled for members joining the show.

That being said, you can find some highly entertaining streams here, often for cheaper rates than joining a per-minute Paid Chat, so these are definitely worth checking out.

Try www.Streamate.com

Stripchat

This is one of the best free chat sites around. Stripchat feels like a constant party with a large variety of potential new friends to choose from. The site’s interface makes it easy to catch you up to speed as soon as you enter a new chat room.

You’ll be able to see the streamer’s room goal and public messages as well as their rate for a Private Show, which is equivalent to Streamate’s Exclusive (one-on-one) Chat. If you glance next to the streamer’s room goal, you can even see who their current “King of the Room” is.

In freemium chat sites like Stripchat, the “King of the Room” refers to the user who has tipped the highest amount in the stream so far. You can dethrone them by tipping even more, which fosters a form of lighthearted competition among the members to vie for the streamer’s attention.

Banter away in Public Chat or use tokens to send Private messages, including pictures, without ever leaving the stream.

Stripchat’s fun, relaxed vibe makes it easy to spend hours on the site, browsing chat rooms and engaging in sweet, sweet discourse with their fantastic streamers. If you’re a frequent flier on this chat site, you may want to consider upgrading to an Ultimate membership.

This subscription unlocks several Stripchat features that really boost your quality of life on the site, including our favorites: unlimited Private Messaging and 24/7 Live Chat Support.

An Ultimate membership also grants you the ability to move on the site practically incognito with model stream previews, Invisible Mode, anonymous tips, and the ability to change your username and profile link whenever you want.

Try www.Stripchat.com

LiveJasmin

If you’ve ever wanted a classy club experience, but hate the inconvenience of dressing up and leaving the comfort of your home, LiveJasmin could be the site for you. Everything about this elite chat site screams luxury. Right off the bat, you can see hundreds of gorgeous glamor shots featuring the site’s streamers.

They are all so beautiful it’s hard to know where to start!

Luckily, LiveJasmin is easy to navigate and you can find your next conversation partner easily by filtering through categories and tags based on their talents and appearance. Simply chatting is free once you’re registered as a member, but you can quickly heat up the conversation when you purchase Credits to show your favorite streamer your appreciation.

There are several ways you can spoil your streamer aside from simply tipping Credits. You can, of course, steal them away for a Private Chat where you can talk one-on-one. If the streamer is in an ongoing Private Chat, you don’t have to wait until they return.

You can take a Sneakpeek into their ongoing session for 25 seconds. During the Sneakpeek, you won’t be able to interact with them, but it is a cheeky way to see what they’re up to in other Private sessions. LiveJasmin also offers VIP Shows.

These work similarly to GOLD Shows on Streamate–multiple members work together by giving a minimum amount of Credits or better to complete a goal for the VIP Show to start.

LiveJasmin doesn’t just have online options for making sure your favorite streamer notices you though. You can also send them a box of beautiful real roses through the site. Isn’t that sweet? As you spend time on the site, you’ll rack up points to go towards your Club Elite membership. Rising through the ranks of this loyalty program will unlock benefits and the hearts of your new online friends.

Try www.LiveJasmin.com

ImLive

The best live chat sites have so many amazing streamers it’s hard to pick just one. Don’t you wish you could talk to two at the same time? Well on ImLive, you can! ImLive has a Group Cams feature that lets you add a second streamer, or “Host,” to a Private Chat at a discounted rate. You can also view up to 6 free cams simultaneously using Voyeur mode.

You won’t be able to interact with the Hosts in this mode, but seeing their candid sides can be very intriguing.

These features are unique to ImLive, but you’ll still be able to enjoy some familiar favorites such as the tried and true Private Chat and the site’s version of VIP/GOLD Shows, “Candy Shows.”

Above all else, ImLive is committed to being the best chat site if you’re looking to party. ImLive hosts themed Parties every month where Hosts will dress up accordingly. There’s also monthly video contests to look forward to, where Hosts can show the full extent of their creativity to match the theme of the contest.

Try www.ImLive.com

CamSoda

On CamSoda, you’ll feel instantly welcomed by the site’s extroverted streamers. As soon as you reach the landing page, you’ll be greeted by chat messages encouraging you to sign up for free. There’s plenty to enjoy on CamSoda without even clicking on a single stream.

While most chat sites at least make you hover over a thumbnail to treat yourself to a free preview, you can see preview clips for all CamSoda streams just by scrolling the home page. There are plenty of different kinds to enjoy.

You can find highly entertaining chat rooms without ever leaving Public chat, where streamers encourage guests to contribute to their goals and keep the conversation flowing. While most chatters are highly interactive, “Voyeur” streamers are less so, and serve to give guests an unedited view of them existing in their natural habitat–sleeping, hanging out in their room, or otherwise keeping themselves occupied for a more relaxed vibe.

Some streamers have their Private Chat disabled on CamSoda, operating entirely in Public Chat, but it’s still a popular feature that  lets you pop into a one-on-one session to enjoy their undivided attention for a while.

During an ongoing Private Chat, some streamers allow outside guests to pay to “spy” on the session. The site also hosts Golden Ticket Shows, which as you may guess, works similarly to ticketed sessions you’d find on other chat sites.

Unique to CamSoda though is their Versus feature. This pits two broadcasters against each other in a heated tip war. Tip to vote for your favorite and watch them beat out the competition.

Try www.CamSoda.com

MyFreeCams

This live cams pioneer is a tried-and-true Internet classic. For most cam fans, MyFreeCams is practically synonymous with the genre, entertaining millions of site visitors since 2004. MyFreeCams is a freemium site, so you can chat with friends online without ever having to spend a dime.

The site’s classic interface is fairly customizable. You can choose how broadcasters are sorted and create your own personal profile whether you’re a streamer or a member just like a social media site.

Streamers even use MFC Share to post fun pictures and clips of what they’re up to. Making friends on the site is fun and easy, and you can even view live broadcasters on your friends list without ever visiting their chat room.

On freemium sites like this one, most streamers set a goal amount for their show that members tip towards. Popular public chat rooms draw huge crowds and members talk amongst each other almost as often as they chat with the streamer.

There’s even a members-only “lounge” where members hang out on the site together. Of course, MyFreeCams offers a variety of chat modes, including Group, Private, and TruePrivate Chat. The difference between Private and TruePrivate Chat is that members can “spy” on Private sessions.

Try www.MyFreeCams.com

CherryTV

Cherry.TV is a streaming platform combining the best gaming and social media elements to create an innovative experience that makes chatting fun and engaging. Finding a new friend online is easy with the site’s categories, and Cherry.TV’s freemium format means you can find some of the best streams for free.

That being said, Cherry.TV offers a variety of ways to chat up your favorite streamer, including, of course, Private Chat and Spy Shows as well as Group Chat, where up to six users can join a streamer at once.

As you tip and join shows over your visits to the site, you’ll gain EXP and level up, just like in a video game. Higher loyalty level members get highlighted for streamers, meaning you’ll receive priority treatment from your favorites.

If you really want to get the most out of the platform though, you can join Club Cherry to unlock special perks like private messaging, special VIP only animated gifts, and the ability to become a moderator and unlock hidden chat room settings. You’ll even get a 10% EXP boost for yourself and the streamers you support!

Try www.CherryTV.com

Chaturbate

Chaturbate is one of the most popular online chat sites on the net with no sign of slowing down. Like MyFreeCams, Chaturbate is a freemium platform.

With highly customizable profiles and addictive chat features, chat rooms on this site are always lively. Chaturbate has a wide range of apps and bots for anything from automated chat messages to interactive games that keep the conversation fun and flowing. The site’s most popular performers draw in huge crowds with thousands of members, so it can be hard to stand out from the pack.

Luckily, Chaturbate offers a number of ways to chat privately and get them all to yourself. Private chats are one-on-one by default, but additional members can opt to “spy” on ongoing sessions.

You can also join “Ticket Shows,” where broadcasters put on a private party for members paying an admission fee.

Upgrade your Chaturbate experience with the site’s “supporter membership.” Once you’re subscribed as a supporter member, you can enjoy special chat features including private messaging and an ad-free interface. As a bonus, you’ll even receive 200 free tokens.

Try www.Chaturbate.com

Whichever webcam site you choose to use these are all widely known and established platforms that have been online, connecting people around the world for safe video chat for many, many years.

Make sure to also check out BestAdultCamSites.com to discover more of the best cam sites for adults too!

The fact is tens of millions of people are using video chat platforms these days on a regular basis and the entire industry truly has gone very mainstream.

Lastly, be safe and remember to only share what you are comfortable with and show respect to those whom you chat with.

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A while ago I wrote a post asking how often do people have sex. The answer is not unexpected – we’re basically not doing it very much at all. We’re tired, we have Netflix, we’re busy scrolling through Instagram… whatever it is, a lot of us are not having sex as much as we did.

There’s good news though. Just because the average couple might be skipping shagging in favour of the latest box set, doesn’t mean that you have to. There are plenty of ways to spice up your sex life and get back to the classic three times a week minimum. Let’s take a look at some ideas now to help you feel inspired.

Switch the lights on

Okay, so this might not sound hugely exciting, but if you normally prefer to have the lights out then getting to see what’s going on could be surprisingly novel. We know that a lot of people feel nervous about having sex with all the lights on, perhaps you worry about your body, but take it from us, if you’re at the point of having regular sex with a partner, they find you attractive, with or without the lights on! Spice it up further with a carefully positioned mirror or two.

Have a change of scene

If you’re very much a bedroom only kind of couple then something as simple as switching up where you have sex can make things feel more exciting. Getting frisky on the sofa, sexy in the shower or perhaps getting down to it in the kitchen can all work. If you’re feeling extra adventurous then you could take it outside the house. Mile high club anyone?

Introduce some toys

This could be a fun household object like a silk scarf or a feather duster, (as part of some role play as a sexy maid perhaps), or you could invest in some sex toys from a trustworthy brand like Lovehoney. Don’t feel like you have to stick to vibrators and dildos, why not have a go at something a little different like a spanking paddle?

Try a little light bondage

It’s a cliché for a reason – having your partner tie you up or restrain you, or vice versa, is a great way to shake things up in the bedroom as it shifts the power dynamic and adds a new element of excitement and tension. If you’re nervous, start by using something like soft scarves to tie each other to the bed frame, and then step it up to handcuffs or purpose made restraints.

Experiment with some sexy talk

Do you talk during sex or does the thought of it fill you with dread? If you’ve not tried some sexy talk before then it can be a little daunting to dive right in, but take it slowly, start off just by being more vocal about what you’re enjoying and what you’d like your partner to do more of, and before you know it you might be storytelling your favourite fantasy.

Remember that sex is meant to be fun, so if you sometimes make each other laugh then that’s okay!

Today I want to talk dating apps, specifically dating apps for single parents.

‘Ooh,’ I hear you ask, ‘which are the best dating apps for single parents?’

None of them is the answer, because there aren’t any. I mean sure, single parents can use whatever dating apps they like if they can stomach the Tinder Bingo, but there’s always the baggage angle isn’t there? Nothing’s going to get you in a romantic frame of mind quite like reading ‘no baggage, no drama’ on a man’s profile and knowing he means ‘no kids, no emotional needs of any kind thank you very much’.

There are a handful of great dating apps worth trying but you won’t find any worth your time that are specifically for single parents. The problem is that while there are a lot of singles parents out there it’s only a small portion of the total number of singles. That means that any single parent dating app would be REALLY small compared to the best out there.

You also don’t want to limit your dating options to other single parents, which is what a specific app would do. There are plenty of singles out there open to dating single parents, maybe even more than the number of single parents! You want to give yourself as many options as possible.

I find it surprising sometimes that of all the men I’ve had serious relationships with, the ones where we’ve lived together, none of them have been parents already.

(Okay, caveat here – I just remembered that Belle’s dad actually did have a daughter already, he just wasn’t in touch with her, which really should have been a huge red flag in itself, especially as he blamed number 7 on my red flag list. He also lied about his age when we met and said he was 26 when actually he was 27, which is quite frankly just WEIRD. I was only 21 when I met him though, so let’s cut me some slack.)

Being a single mum and being in relationships with people without children has always been difficult. I’ve never really felt like they got it, like they understood that my priorities were always going to be slightly different to theirs. I’ve never truly felt either like my partner has taken on my children as if they were his own. In one relationship for example, where we lived together in the same house, ostensibly as a family, my partner would only contribute a third of all household bills, claiming that I should have to contribute the kids’ share on my own.

(I pick them don’t I?)

In this particular relationship the fact that I was a parent, and that we were therefore at very different stages in our lives generally, was what eventually led to our separation. I remember one Friday evening, feeling exhausted after a busy week, bemoaning the fact that I would have to get up early in the morning and hoping secretly that he might offer to get up instead.

‘Well they’re your kids,’ he said, matter-of-factly.

I fell silent. View Post