A startling 32.5% of married Americans report having had no sexual intimacy in the past 12 months, a significant decline from the typical weekly standard, according to recent data from the General Social Survey. Dr. Anna Elton, a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical sexologist, identifies this trend and offers actionable advice for couples struggling to reignite their spark. She emphasizes that a “sexless marriage” is defined as 10 or fewer instances of intimacy per year and attributes the decline to various factors including busy family lives, hormonal changes, and, most commonly, the fading of initial relationship excitement. To combat this, Elton suggests prioritizing emotional connection over immediate physical intimacy, especially when resentment has built up. Her core recommendation involves a week-long exercise of focusing on and sharing positive aspects of the relationship, shifting away from logistical or negative conversations. She also highlights the detrimental impact of constant digital distractions, advocating for intentional, tech-free time together. Crucially, Elton points to the loss of “fun” as a key missing ingredient in long-term relationships. To reintroduce this, she proposes “A-to-Z date nights,” encouraging couples to engage in novel activities together, citing that novelty itself can reignite desire. Moreover, she stresses the importance of re-establishing flirting and creating a “new language of flirting” to communicate erotic intentions. For individuals experiencing a lack of self-desire, often linked to aging and stress, Elton recommends small acts of self-care and intimate physical contact, such as extended hugs and kisses, to boost oxytocin and foster connection both internally and with a partner.
Adapted from: Latest & Breaking News on Fox News