Declining economy: Lifestyle stress a ‘major emotion killer’, fewer Aussies getting closer to their partners
The more Australians have sex, the less financial pressure affects their desire to have sex
With the increasing stress of the lifestyle crisis, many Australians have noticed that their sex lives have been affected.
New research from Afterpay has found that mounting financial pressures have led 16 per cent of Australians to have less desire for physical intimacy, with one in seven reporting high tension with their partner.
Sexologist Chantel Otten says external pressures, such as high costs, can be a ‘major emotion-killer’.
Fewer Aussies are having sex because of lifestyle pressures, new research has found
With that in mind, Otten says there are plenty of ways to spice it up in the bedroom without breaking the bank.
‘While financial worries can intrude on our intimate lives, there are many ways to maintain or even rekindle that spark without weighing on the wallet,’ she said.
‘Sex is a powerful stress reliever and a great way to increase your intimacy – emotionally and physically.’
Budget constraints often force people to think outside the box, finding simple yet effective ways to add something extra special to the experience.
Otten recommends going back to basics — dimming the lights, turning on some music and using a silk scarf or ice cubes for some sensory play.
This is backed up by Afterpay’s research, which found 17 per cent of Aussies like to set the mood with lights and music or include toys for that.
Open communication is key to helping partners feel closer to each other, allowing each person to share their desires, fantasies, and boundaries.
The same can be said for dealing with external stressors in the relationship, such as financial worries, as a deeper mutual understanding of each other’s needs helps bring couples closer together.
Otten says surprise and novelty can also help shake things up, breaking the routine and adding some excitement to the relationship.
Sexologist Chantel Otten has ways to rekindle romance without breaking the bank
It works by releasing dopamine, the brain’s feel-good chemical, which can be triggered by surprising substances.
Trying new toys or outfits can help freshen things up, with nearly a quarter of Australians naming new underwear and locations as their favorite way to spice things up.
Embracing joy and reinforcing positivity can help people express their joy, an experience that the traveler also derives joy from.
Transparency helps increase and expand each other’s excitement, while acknowledging and positively reaffirming what each person enjoys fosters deeper intimacy.
Otten also says that romantic gestures like cooking a meal together or spending some spa time can release tension and help set the right mood.
Activities such as massage allow couples to explore each other’s bodies, deepening feelings of connection and building anticipation.
‘A rich sex life does not necessarily equate to an expensive life,’ said Otten.
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