It is said that candies become much tastier if we refrain from eating them for some time. The Internet has recently been shocked by the news that a reality show star has temporarily given up sex instead of sweets. Extreme? Maybe. However, after this announcement, many people are in a hurry to try what sex fasting really does for you.
What is Sex Fasting?
“Sex fasting” has only recently gained popularity. And although there is already a decline in the frequency of sex among the younger generation, some psychologists say the method only brings couples even closer.
Psychotherapist Marianne Johnson explains that a significant number of relationship therapists sometimes use the method of sensory concentration to improve closeness between two people.
“It starts with the couple agreeing to abstain from sex for a while. At the moment, the focus is on other sensory experiences and different forms of touch”, says the psychotherapist.
“Gradually, when the couple regains their intimacy, they return to intimate activities.”
According to Johnson, the way the method is performed depends on the reason why the partners attend the treatment, but the overall goal is always the same – to reduce the focus on sex. “It also improves their communication skills because they work towards a common goal,” the psychotherapist continues to describe the benefits of abstinence.
She also points out that sex fasting can benefit any couple: “Desire and excitement come and go, and the process involves learning. They begin to understand what they likes and what doesn’t allow them to feel pleasure.”
This method can also be useful for those who suffer from sexual dysfunction. For example, if a person has low libido due to erectile dysfunction.
“A person is simply overwhelmed by the feeling of relief when he can indulge in what inspires him again without fear that he will not live up to his partner’s expectations,” she says.
Improved intimate life
After trying, people always say, “Abstinence ultimately leads to shockingly good sex!” According to sexual welfare specialist Tracey Coates, this is a pretty good idea.
By abstaining from sex, partners can explore new aspects of intimate relationships, especially if the couple is experiencing worsening of their relationship at the time.
However, it must be remembered that “sex fasting” requires heartfelt and open communication so that the partners understand each other’s intentions and motives.
“Many couples experience stress during intercourse because they do not feel the closeness that should be rooted in the experience. Conscious abstinence from sex can not only revive the sexual spark for a while, but also improve intimate relationships, ”explains Coates. “Sometimes it is necessary to exclude sex from the daily routine so that the couple can understand each other’s wishes and needs.”
Like psychotherapist Johnson, Coates emphasizes that abstaining from sex improves the couple’s communication. According to her, some couples hide behind sex and do not even try to talk about intimate relationships, so with sex fasting, the partners open up to each other.
And finally, how does it feel to suddenly stop abstinence? “When the ‘fasting’ of sex stops, you will just feel life. You will realize that it is worth combining emotional intimacy with physical intimacy, ”explains Coates. “Guaranteed increased libido, endurance and even the possibility of orgasm.”