Social distancing. It's a term we hear a lot lately. It's normally joined with self-isolation and 'flatten the curve.' The pandemic has changed so many aspects of our lives, including our sex lives.
Many of us now find ourselves in long-distance relationships. Even if that distance is just across town, many of us have to stay separate from our partners, for their safety and our own.
That being said, social distancing doesn't mean we can't still have a rewarding sex life. It just means we have to figure out new ways of doing things. New ways of finding connections and pleasure.
There have been many attempts made by long-distance couples to solve the no-sex dilemma that many of us are now facing. It used to be dirty love letters, then it was phone sex (which is still a fun activity you should definitely consider!). There has been sexting, erotic emails, dirty pictures.
Clearly, some of us still can’t keep our hands off each other - at least mentally - even when we're apart. But for some, just hearing or reading those dirty words hardly compares to the real thing. Fortunately, we have a solution: video sex.
If you haven't tried it yourself yet, chances are you know someone else who has. Whoever you are, we're here to give you some simple tips. The rest, of course, is up to you.
There's no need for elaborate planning, but at least choose a time when both of you will have at least an hour or so to relax without interruptions from a roommate, work or family.
It might not bother everyone to have people moving around in the house during an intimate moment, but if you know it’ll bother you, take that into account and make sure you have a space to be alone.
Most importantly, make sure to close and lock your door - unless, perhaps, you’re involved in some sort of voyeuristic fantasy, but that’s for another article.
Don't just roll up in sweat pants and weekend hair; prepare for video sex as if you were getting ready for a night of romance in real life. Dress in something that makes you feel good or something you know your partner will like.
As with any other type of sex, if you want to have video sex, you have to feel sexy. If you don’t like the way you look on video, either minimize your screen so you won’t be as self-conscious, or adjust the lighting.
If possible, avoid fluorescent lighting and go with something with more a yellow tone. Feel free to be vain - you’re on camera, after all. You want to look the best you can to feel the best you can.
Read: 6 Ways to Feel Better about Your Body in Bed
Know your body. If you’re not in the habit of masturbating regularly, definitely give that a go first. Note also that video sex is more than masturbating - having someone watch you do it adds a whole new level.
It can be arousing, but it can also be daunting, so make sure you know exactly what gets you off in a physical way before you try it on camera.
Read: Get It On With Yourself: 10 Sweet Reasons to Masturbate
Dirty talk isn't necessary, but it can be very helpful in terms of spicing things up. If you’re a dirty talk rookie, start easy by just describing things that you want your partner to do to you, or things that you want to do to your partner. Say it sexy, but don't worry about being clever if that isn't your thing; even the simplest descriptions go a long way toward making things hotter.
For many couples, the next stage might be role-playing or fantasy. Consider exploring a fantasy you’ve always found hot, whether it’s as tried and true as schoolgirl/teacher, or something that appeals to you and your partner on a more personal level.
Just because you’re role-playing doesn’t mean you have to use cheesy lines from '70s porn - unless you want to! Whatever you say, just keep the dialog simple and focus on what turns you on about the situation. Or have one or both partners describe the fantasy situation as it unfolds.
Read: Dirty Talk 101: The Art of Using Your Words
It's hard not to be able to have physical contact, but the upside is that it forces you to try new things. Maybe it's a role-playing fantasy, as I mentioned above, or maybe it's a new toy, such as a dildo or a vibrator. Also try different positions to ensure your partner's seeing the parts of you they love the most.
Finally, don’t worry too much if things feel awkward, or you’re unable to orgasm on-screen. For some people, getting themselves off is something that they’re used to doing in private, and it can take some adjustment to get used to doing it in front of someone else.
Don’t pressure yourself, and don’t be afraid to laugh at awkward moments rather than let them overwhelm you. And remember, even if you don't finish with a happy ending, your video quickie will ensure that you have one coming to you when you and your honey get a chance to play things out in real time (whenever that may be).
Finally - and perhaps most importantly - communicate with your partner! If something worked for you, say so. If it was mind blowing, shout it out. If things were awkward, talk about it and make an appointment to try again.
Read: Sex Communication 101
Video sex is just like any other sex - the options are limitless and entirely up to you.
Think of it as an opportunity to take part in your very own porno. Only in this one, your partner will only have eyes for you.
