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Foreplay. It sounds like an odd word but what does it really mean, why is it something interesting to explore, what can it bring into a relationship, and how?
Foreplay, also sometimes called “outercourse”, involves different intellectual, verbal, and physical teasing activities which aim to increase arousal and desire. By stimulating the mind, foreplay readies the body for intimacy.
During foreplay, partners can experience heart pounding, an increase of blood flow to the genitals, erections, and vaginal lubrication.
Foreplay can take a variety of different forms – caressing, providing a sensual massage, texting something sexy you imagine yourself doing with your partner, or leaving a romantic note on their pillow.
Mention the lingerie you are wearing during a romantic dinner or whisper indecent thoughts in your partner’s ear while in a public area.
How Foreplay Works in Relationships
Foreplay can help you and your partner get closer by triggering hormones that deepen your connections. For example, kissing releases oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine. These feel-good hormones can reduce stress and help you enjoy sex even more.
Foreplay means different things for different people. Don’t limit your imagination – remember communication, open-mindedness, playfulness, and respect are key.
Some people may relish foreplay so much that they never get around to intercourse. As long as everyone consents to the activities, the most important thing is to enjoy yourself.
Why not develop a code with your partner, so you can easily communicate your level of enjoyment during foreplay? From a scale of 1 (just getting warmed up) through to an earth-shattering 10, let your partner know just how you are feeling.
Do try this at home
- Find your favourite playlist and invite your partner to dance
- Cuddle up together while watching an explicit film
- Run a bubble bath for two
- Light candles, dim the lights and treat your partner to a sensual massage
- Leave an erotic message on your partner’s phone
- Experiment with different materials, such as feathers and silk. How do these feel on your partner’s skin?
