HOW TO IMPROVE YOU AND YOUR PARTNER'S S3KS LIFE

Sex should be enjoyable, not something that causes more stress than pleasure. Here are six ways you and your partner can improve the quality of your sex life.

1. Reduce stress

Stress can hinder a happy sex life for you and your partner. Anyone experiencing stress may find a decrease in their libido. For example, a 2013 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found women with high stress had lower levels of genital arousal.

If you notice you or your partner is stressed, talk to each other about it, and find ways to blow off steam. This can include: journaling, meditation, therapy, enjoyable body movement like dancing, or productive physical activities such as folding laundry. On the other hand, some people may use sex to cope with their stress, says Lozano.

2. Explore your sexual self

Lozano suggests practicing introspection, curiosity, and exploring your sexuality and sexual desires to become more familiar with your body. Sexual exploration can mean tackling body image issues or finding what pleases you.

If you're comfortable, get to know yourself physically and what feels good through masturbation. As you become more comfortable with yourself and what satisfies you, it may be easier to express your sexual desires with a partner.

3. Try something new

If you've been with your partner for a long time, it's easy to assume you know everything about their sexual preferences. Instead, ask them questions like what their best sexual experience was, a time they felt dissatisfied, or what's something they've always wanted to do.

Trying new positions, fantasies, or toys can revitalize your sex life, says Goerlich. She recommends using sites that specify your sexual interests like Mojo Upgrade and comparing results with your partner. 

4. Begin "foreplay" before you reach the bedroom

Foreplay can be much more than physical touch or sexual acts. The path to great sex begins long before you enter the bedroom. Creating a safe space for your partner, and treating them with kindness, affection, and respect, provides a jumping off point for a deep, meaningful connection during sex.

5. Communicate with each other

If you want to try new things or change your sex life, it all requires open and honest communication. When discussing sex with your partner, Lozano says to keep curiosity, compassion, and vulnerability at the top of mind. Make sure your partner feels heard without judgment and comfortable sharing both their sexual needs and limits.

6. Work to sync your sex drives

Sex drives vary from person to person, making it difficult for couples to find the right balance. That's why Kamil Lewis, a sex and relationship therapist, suggests scheduling sex and prioritizing your sexual routine. This may mean one partner occasionally has sex slightly more or less often than they would prefer, but considering each other's needs is key.

It's important to keep in mind that consent is always necessary to engage in a sexual encounter. If you don't want to have sex, don't have sex. And, don't force a partner to have sex unless they are completely comfortable in doing so.