Summer is the perfect time of year for surfing, sunbathing, camping and … cheating?
Extra sunshine, time off work and generally escaping routines may lead to many a wandering eye.
The good news is that you and your partner can take steps to cheat-proof your relationship. That’s right: Just like you reach for extra SPF to block harmful UV rays, you can also safeguard your marriage by taking proactive and intentional steps to extinguish extramarital temptations. Of course, it’s not foolproof. But here are some things you may want to try.
The relationship between cuddling and sex
Cuddle up. You might think of cuddling as anti-passionate or even platonic. Simply put: Couples who cuddle are more likely to stay together than couples who don’t.
When we cuddle, our brain gets flooded with oxytocin. Oxytocin is a chemical that makes us feel deeply bonded and connected to our mate. The more connected we feel to our spouse, the less likely we are to cheat. Additionally, if you’re touching and snuggling, you’re just steps away from intimacy, meaning that people who cuddle a lot are probably also having more sex than people who don’t. Win-win.

Plus, since it’s summer, sleep in the buff or light fabrics. Swap out your cotton or flannel sheets for silky satin. Notice how much more sensual you feel when you intentionally choose your bedding and nightwear with your relationship in mind.
Turn up the romance
Be the change. If you want more romance and passion in your relationship, set the intention to bring more romance and passion into the relationship. Don’t passively sit back and wait for romance to just fall in your lap. Ask yourself every day: What can I do today to make my partner feel desired and adored? Maybe it’s sending him a sexy text or buying her flowers for no reason. Maybe it’s planning a special date night or giving them a deep kiss instead of a perfunctory peck as they head out to work.
When you channel passion and desire toward your partner, you’re going to get it back tenfold. If your energy says “I love being intimate with my partner” and “I can’t wait to be alone with my partner,” they are going to feel that energy and respond with passion.