In a recent discussion, sexual culture and wellbeing expert Alix Fox addressed a common concern: whether electronic sex toys might lead to desensitisation. Fox clarified that while these toys do not cause permanent desensitisation, they can temporarily shift the level of intensity required for pleasure.
Scheduling Intimacy for a Healthier Love Life
Fox emphasised the importance of prioritising intimacy to maintain a vibrant love life. She acknowledged that making time for closeness can be challenging amidst a busy schedule, but argued that it is crucial. Sacrificing other commitments might be necessary to accommodate this need, as neglecting intimacy could lead to feelings of dissatisfaction.
According to Fox, making time for playful and enjoyable moments with a partner can act as a stress reliever, revitalising one’s outlook and energy. She noted that intimacy serves as a therapeutic outlet, helping to manage daily pressures and improve overall productivity.
Creative Approaches to Intimacy
Fox stressed that planning for intimacy doesn’t have to mean planning for specific sexual activities. Instead, couples could create a ‘menu’ of various romantic or erotic activities to choose from. This could include gentle, soothing actions like a shared bath, or more adventurous activities like reading aloud from a risqué novel.
Dr Sara Nasserzadeh, author of Love by Design: 6 Ingredients to Build a Lifetime of Love, likens these scheduled intimate moments to dining experiences, comparing the selection of activities to choosing dishes at a restaurant. Dr Nasserzadeh underscored that the goal should be mutual satisfaction, which does not always have to culminate in orgasm.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.