With vaccination campaigns being rolled out across the world, it feels like we can finally see the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel. However, there’s still a lot to do and we’ll have to wait a little longer until we can go back to normal.
COVID-19 is affecting our romantic and sex life. Young couples who were just starting to date may find it challenging to be thrown directly into a long-distance relationship. On the other hand, long-term partners may not have the energy to spice things up due to the anxiety-inducing year we’ve just been through.
Long-distance relationships are being tested during these exceptional times. Non-essential travel is discouraged for both national and international passengers and strict lockdowns are forcing couples who live in the same town to go long periods of time without seeing each other.
Don’t worry though — here at Kinky Karrot we’ve got you covered. From sexting advice to safety and self-care, find the best tips to spice up a long-distance relationship during the pandemic (but also during more regular times!).
Boost your partner’s confidence
Having a hard time keeping things sexy long-distance? If you feel like your partner could contribute more, it may be because their body confidence is not at its best during the pandemic. Whether their body has changed or not, it’s not unusual for self-esteem to be affected by social distancing.
Compliments from their significant other can improve their confidence and help them get in the mood more easily. Remind them how hot they are and how attractive they look to you.
Send sexy gifts You don’t have to wait for Christmas or birthdays to come around: show your love and thoughts with a surprise delivery — a new sex toy or hot underwear, for example. You could also try sending underwear you’ve worn if that’s something you and your partner may enjoy. Not all videos have to be hot Maybe sending over an erotic video isn’t really your thing, and that’s totally fine. You should only do and say things you’re comfortable with. Why not recording videos of non-sexual acts? It could be a workout, a cooking video of their favorite recipe, or even a time-lapse of your latest IKEA furniture assembling disaster — watching your beau on camera is hot even when they’re mopping the floor. The video doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s just a way to remain close and part of each other’s lives and it will increase your intimacy. It also feels great to know that someone you care for takes the time to record/watch it.
Self-care advice to improve your sex life during the pandemic
Remember when we said that taking care of your partner’s confidence and mental health will help your sex life? It works for you too.
Taking care of yourself is the best way to tap into your creativity and sexuality when it comes to keeping the flame alive long-distance.
Here are some self-care tips that will affect your sex life positively:
Masturbation isn’t a sin, a swear word, or something to be ashamed of: take the edge off of a stressful day and connect with your body
Try positive inner dialogue — remind yourself of your achievements during these difficult times and the obstacles you’ve overcome. You’re doing great
Take time for yourself to do things you love. Remember that your happiness does not come from anyone else but from within
Talk to other important people in your life, even if it means not calling your partner tonight
How is covid affecting relationships?
There’s no way around it — COVID-19 has changed the way we interact with others, including romantic relationships. Online dating has been around long before covid but apps like Tinder have seen a 15% increase in downloads in the second quarter of 2020. To facilitate social distancing, online dating services have launched new features such as live streaming and video dating.
Users report that dating has become more stressful. Seeing people outside your household certainly requires more planning now, and for many, it comes with the fear of putting yourself and your dear ones at risk. Not to mention that with bars, restaurants, and museums closed, there are fewer things to do on a date.
Those already in a relationship may find that the rise in anxiety and depression levels during the pandemic affects couple dynamics. 4 out of 10 adults in the US report symptoms of mental health challenges — up from 1 in 10 adults before the pandemic.
When it comes to sex, women’s sexuality seems to be more heavily affected. An Italian study found that during lockdown, over 26% of respondents identifying as female perceived a decrease in sexual desire and over 17.6% found it more difficult to reach an orgasm (only 6% of male-identifying participants reported the same issue.) When asked to guess what was causing these changes, most female participants pointed towards pandemic-induced stress and worries.
Positive effects of COVID-19 on relationships
It’s not all bad news, though. Some are able to find a silver lining. In several studies, couples also reported that the pandemic had positive effects on their relationship, such as:
Being able to spend more time with their partner
Discovering new hobbies and activities to engage in as a couple
Developing better communication skills, especially for those who need to date long-distance
Getting to talk more and knowing a person better before having sex for the first time/jumping into a serious relationship
What about you? How are you keeping your long-distance relationship fun? Do you have any tips for other couples? Let us know in the comment section on the very bottom of this page!