Sex Detox

One of the morning shows today had a sexpert suggesting sex detox for people whose sex lives have become hum-drum. The detox involves going on a sex fast for a period of time to let new interest build. Like swearing off carbs and then dreaming about a mountain of mashed potatoes, the forbidden becomes more enticing. A sex fast can break up an overly predictable routine and create some excitement.

I've also recommended this approach to many couples whose sexual relationship has become toxic. If differences in desire have created major conflict and tension, declaring a truce and a sexual time-out is often necessary before the problem can be effectively addressed. Usually the person with higher desire isn't wild about this plan, but the relief from the partner with lower desire is unmistakable. As long as the goal is resolving the conflict and restoring healthy intimacy to the relationship, both will benefit from a time of abstinence.

Whether you need to break a toxic pattern or just inject new energy into your sex life, abstinence might just make the heart (or whatever) grow fonder.