Tag: Relationships

All the latest breaking news on gay and LGBT relationships. Browse THEGAYUK’s complete collection of news, articles and commentary on relationships.

  • Five ways to become an erotic massage pro

    Want to give your lover some truly unforgettable bodywork?

    Five ways to become an erotic massage pro

    Many couples enjoy the pleasure and intimacy of erotic massages as foreplay. As well as relaxing the recipient, a strong, explorative, erotic massage can also have real, noticeable benefits for the giver and for the couple as a whole.

    Four reasons to start sex with a massage

    • It strips away boundaries in a natural, unhurried way, building a real connection and singularity between both lovers.

    • It brings the recipient’s senses to life, as they begin to react and respond to the touch of the masseuse.

    • It gives the masseuse a better understanding of their lover’s pleasure zones, allowing them to see what they do and do not respond to. This will later inform love-making techniques, rhythms and positions.

    • The recipient’s whole body loosens up, with different parts connecting in ways that are not always possible. This builds towards stronger, longer orgasms.

     

    Five steps to the perfect erotic massage

    • Before

    It is vital that you create the best possible atmosphere for your love-making. Be sure you are in a

    quiet space that will be yours and yours alone for at least two hours. Switch off all phones and

    minimise overhead light, using candles if possible. Incense and low music are also helpful additions.

    • To begin

    Ask your lover to lay face-down on the bed, table, couch or whatever comfortable platform you have setup for their massage. Check that they are relaxed and not strained in their position. Then place your hands on the centre of their back and feel their breathing pattern. Take a moment to acclimatise yours with theirs, until you are both breathing in and out at the same pace.

    • Gentle touches and slow strokes

    Your first strokes should be tender, using only your fingertips to allow your lover’s senses to know that pleasure is coming. Next, place some warmed massage oil on your hand and slowly rub it all over their body, from the top of their back to the heels of their feet. Tell your lover that they can move and express themselves however they like, to guide you and to give them a sense of both pleasure and mutual control.

    • Roll over

    When you have rubbed the oil sensually and slowly all over your lover, ask them to roll over. Now apply the oil to their front in the same measured strokes. Once they are fully relaxed, move your hands softly to their genitalia. Rub the oil around the outskirts of their sexual organ, teasing it into life, slow and sure, before moving into the centre. Their arousal should be visible and audible, showing you when the time is right to move on to sex.

    • After sex

    When both lovers have climaxed, spoon together for a long moment, allowing your heartbeats and breathing to connect and synchronise once again. This will give a complete wholeness to your lovemaking.
    An erotic massage is a powerful, beautiful and, most of all, pleasurable way to begin sex. Try this technique for yourself.

    by Guysway

  • DILEMMA | My husband cheated on me with male sex workers, whilst I was in prison

    This week a reader finds out that her husband of 14 years cheated on her with male sex workers, whilst she was in prison. He also bugged her phone and continues to see escorts, even when their two kids are in the house.

    Dear Dr Dannii

    I have been with my hubby for 14 years and I know I was his first love.

    Recently I was incarcerated and did six months in jail away from my love and he cheated on me with a sex worker, who turned out to be male. We have two children under 10 and I know he’s been bringing in sex workers and drug users into our home whilst the kids are there.

    He also has hacked my phone, so he can listen to my conservations, even when I’m not using it. I haven’t cheated on him so I have no idea what to do next.

    I feel every time I go out he cheats on me and I don’t want him to pass on any STDs to me. We’ve talk about working this through and he says he’ll change, but I can’t and don’t want to live with a guy who can’t be faithful.

    Sandi,

    (Message edited for clarity and length)

     

    Dear Sandi,

    Your message was long and a bit unclear in some parts, but I understood what you were trying to say, and how much you have been through.

    Please do not stay in the situation that you are in. You are clearly unhappy and it is obvious that your partner has no consideration for your feelings at all. I am sorry to be so blunt, but this will not change. I believe I understood you have children, if so this can not be a healthy situation for any young people to be in.

    Please try and get the necessary help (including any protection you might need!) and build a new life for you and your children and stop waiting for others to change.

    Your first stop should be to social services or give Family Lives (0808 800 2222) a call to talk through your problem. It sounds like you need some guidance from people who can help tackle your issues head on. It might be good check out the woman’s website over at Shelter, who have some brilliant advice for women in need of refuge.

    The other thing to consider and it all depends on your family and friendship connections – but do you have parents, family or friends you can call on to help you, even if it’s to leave the house with your children for a while and get them out of that toxic environment?

    If you are concerned about your sexual health, you should book yourself in with your GP or a sexual health clinic.

    You have dealt with so much already, so you are strong enough to make it through.

    Have you got a dilemma you’d like to ask our experts?

     


    Got an issue you’d like us to explore fill in the form below.

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  • These gay-friendly destinations are giving us serious #HoneymoonGoals

    These gay-friendly destinations are giving us serious #HoneymoonGoals

    So you’re getting married?

    Congrats! We bet you’ve got enough on your plate and could spare having to plan the holiday of a lifetime on top of that. Have you come to the point where you’re pondering all the unanswered questions and steps that are separating you from actually jumping on that plane?

    We hear you.

    One question that should never be left ignored is whether you picked a honeymoon destination that is gay-friendly. With over 70 countries still having some form of anti-homosexuality law, it’s easy to see how your perfect holiday could go awry. Although not feeling comfortable showing your affection to your loved one in public is not something you should ever have to deal with, it’s an especially unwelcome feeling on this special occasion. So, we’ve put together a list of the most gay-friendly honeymoon destinations; areas filled with beauty, vibrancy and friendliness.

    1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    Previously THEGAYUK.com had suggested Brazil as a good location for a Honeymoon, however, due to the legal and criminal situation, we cannot advise going to this part of the world.

    2. Barcelona, Spain

    Barcelona gay friendly
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Barcelona is constantly at the top of the most LGBT-friendly lists — and with good reason. A great mix of delicious tapas, fabulous sandy beaches, stunning historical buildings, balmy year-round climate, and a selection of gay bars, saunas, cruises and hotels to boot make it easy to see why it’s a holiday favourite amongst the gay scene.

    3. Reykjavik, Iceland

    Barcelona gay friendly
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Same-sex marriage became legal in Iceland in 2010, but the country always had a relaxed and accepting attitude towards gay couples. For one thing, their prime minister is openly gay! Despite all this, the beauty of this outlandish country is what will captivate you the most. Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon: a geothermal spa located in a lava field where you can soak in milky blue water at any time of the year.

    4. Buenos Aires, Argentina

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Gay marriage was legalised in 2010 in Argentina, but Buenos Aires was a mecca for gay travellers way before then. Dubbed the “most European place in South America,” it’s a sprawling city rich in history. Take a stroll hand in hand along the pedestrian Calle Florida in the Microcentro, or in the Recoleta, Palermo and marvel at all the beauty without a care.

    5. Cancun, Mexico

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Cancun has so much more to offer than the hedonistic reputation that precedes it. There’s a bit of everything for everyone. Sure, there’s the crazy night life if you fancy that, but there are also a whole throng of gay beaches and hotels to pick from, and a carefree, ‘live and let live’ vibe that’ll put you right at ease.

    6. Cape Town, South Africa

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    One wouldn’t always think of the African continent when it comes to gay-friendly travel destinations, but South Africa was the fifth country in the world and first in Africa to legalise same-sex marriage. Seen by many as one of the most beautiful cities in South Africa, Cape Town promises spectacular scenery, incredible beaches and exotic wildlife. Drive safely, though, as the baboons run free!

    7. Taiwan

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Taiwan may also come as a surprise for a gay-friendly destination, but it is one of the most accepting countries in Asia. There’s something for all tastes and tonnes to explore for such a tiny island, including nine national parks (don’t miss the Taroko National Park), a bustling metropolis, pleasant sub-tropical weather and beautiful, remote beaches.

    8. Palm Springs, USA

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    The sun always shines in the South Californian desert oasis of Palm Springs. As a city that boasts the most same-sex (and the most clothing optional!) hotels in the world, it’s easy to see how you’ll have a great time. Rather go golfing? Hiking? Clubbing? There’s little that can’t be had in Palm Springs.

    Parveen Nanda is an experienced blogger and travel expert at Luxtripper, supplying luxury four and five-star hotels and end-to-end package holidays.

  • This is how many men would like to be in a poly marriage

    I do, I do, I do…

    This is how many men would like to be in a poly marriage

    Men who want to have a poly relationship or marriage (that’s a relationship with more than one person) is on the rise. New research conducted by YouGov shows that one in eight guys (12 percent) would consider a polygamous marriage. Although there is the perfect number of partners over the usual one spouse, the research found.

    The number of women who would consider a poly marriage was just 4 percent.

    More men than women up for Poly Relationships

    According to the survey, “One in twenty men (5%) and one in fifty women (2%) would like to have two married partners, while an identical number in both cases would like three, and a further 2% of men would like four or more married partners (compared to a statistical 0% of women).”

    Only 1 per cent of men would want 10 or more partners.

    In total 2316 UK adults were asked.

    Monogamy was still the most popular choice. The overwhelming majority would opt for just one life-long spouse.

    In case you’re wondering our shop has a variety of Polysexual goodies to show off your colours!

     

  • 10 things you can do to make you last longer in bed

    Guys, if you find yourself unable to last long in bed – we’ve got ten tips that might help.

    You’re halfway through your performance with a totally hot guy you just met, when without warning your little Mister calls time. Yes, you’ve spaffed your load without warning. The little swimmers are taking a curtain call as you mutter “I’m so sorry, i.. i…” (I mean, what do you say as he’s riving in agony with man juice in his eye….. ‘It Burrrrrnnnns’)

    Here are our top tips to making sure you last longer in the sack.

    1) Homework.

    The best part of this lesson is that you get to do homework and as much of it as you like. A wank is a key element to why many men prematurely blow their loads. Why? Well if you train yourself to cum quite quickly when you’re alone, the chances are that you will do exactly the same when you’re with a partner. So next time your palm is dating your dick, work your way up to 15 minutes, 20 minutes and for those who have cocks of rock try 30 minutes. Try bringing yourself to the point of no return and then stop before you explode. Giving yourself a moment to relax and start again.

    Give yourself a moment to relax and start again.

    2) Round 2.

    Usually, the second time in a day may take longer to achieve climax. There are two ways. You choke the chicken before you go out for a shag, but if you’re hours in-between meeting your butt buddy, then you can always get down to it twice with the same bloke in one night – a 5-minute breather and climb onboard again! Plus you’ll look like a stud who can go multiple times in an evening. Win win.

    3) Less Stimulation.

    If you’re finding it all too much, just pause for a moment. Find a position where you are less stimulated. Why not call “All Change” and swap positions or roles even. Not only does this give you a moment, but also adds an element of workout to your session.

    It also acts as a communication device! Letting each other know you’re having a great time! The receiver on top will often help with a less stimulating f**k for your penis as he’ll have more control over the thrusts and strokes, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the view.

    NEXT >>

  • Dear Hopeful Me… Here’s what you need to know about your first love

    Here’s what first love can feel like

    Dear Hopeful Me,

    Now that you’ve accepted which gender you happen to be attracted to, it’s only a matter of time before that four-letter-word starts playing a more serious part in your life. You’ve spent a while pretending that you don’t believe in Love, mostly because your darn low self-esteem has managed to convince you that you’ll never be worthy of it – but it’s coming, and I feel like you ought to know a little about how it’s going to go.

    The first time it hits you it is going to hit you hard and fast. It will follow you home from the club, show its head on some – few and far between – dates, and most certainly be present through the hour-long phone calls night to night. At this point, it’s going to be confusing and terrifying all at the same time, but you’re going to be feeling too happy in the moment to care about this, so you’ll dive in head first. He’ll say it first, and you’ll say it right back – and then you’ll make a habit of saying it as often as possible to ensure he’s still saying it back, right up until he doesn’t that is.

    That’s the first Love, and it’s a bitch – it will break you and hurt you.

    You’ll spend a long time after that Love living like a wounded animal, you’ll limp from day to day simply hoping that something might change. To steal some wisdom from Cat Stevens, “The first cut is the deepest”, and this has never been truer than when it comes to Love.

    Just hold on, Kiddo, you see, the truth is that Love isn’t a once in a lifetime affair – who knows how many times you might experience it in your life, but I can tell you right now that it’s definitely not just the once for you.

    It might take a while to find someone you can trust again, someone who doesn’t mind the scars and the tears in your trust. But believe me, you’ll find him, and he just happens to be well worth the wait.

    There are always going to be outside influences on your Love, PDA will never be as easy as it should be, and sometimes even holding hands might feel like a risk – thanks a lot, 2016 – but those are all the little things that you quickly realise don’t matter at all. You just have to trust your heart on this one – don’t listen to the head and all the overrun thoughts that might plague you. You are worthy of Love. You are entitled to Love. You deserve a happy future – maybe even with a diamond ring, a picket fence, and a few kids if that’s what you choose. Being Gay doesn’t change this – which is definitely something to keep in mind after that first love breaks you.

    You are worthy of Love. You are entitled to Love. You deserve a happy future – maybe even with a diamond ring, a picket fence, and a few kids if that’s what you choose. Being Gay doesn’t change this – which is definitely something to keep in mind after that first love breaks you.

    You are entitled to Love. You deserve a happy future – maybe even with a diamond ring, a picket fence, and a few kids if that’s what you choose. Being Gay doesn’t change this – which is definitely something to keep in mind after that first love breaks you.

    You deserve a happy future – maybe even with a diamond ring, a picket fence, and a few kids if that’s what you choose. Being Gay doesn’t change this – which is definitely something to keep in mind after that first love breaks you.

    Being Gay doesn’t change this – which is definitely something to keep in mind after that first love breaks you.

    It’s hard to know when you find The One – in fact; everyone might feel like The One to you at times, but that’s when you really have no choice but to dive in headfirst. At the end of the day, Love might hurt you, but it’s nothing to be afraid of.

    If it’s now or never, make it now.

    Sincerely,
    Twenty-Five Year Old (Loved, Unloved, and Loved Again) You

     

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, its management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.

  • Do you know what a white glove bottom is?

    What is a white glove bottom and how do you know if you are one?

    What Is A White Glove Bottom?

    A white glove bottom is a guy who won’t bottom (be penetrated by another guy) unless he’s completely sure he’s completely clean if you get our drift. So basically he’s the type who will most probably douche or use an enema before penetration to ensure there’s no mess… ever.

    Not every man who bottoms is a “white glove bottom” – if you know your body and have a good diet it isn’t always necessary to be excessive with your cleaning.

    ALSO READ: 9 foods you shouldn’t eat if you’re planning to bottom tonight

    But if you’re worried about mess, use a condom. These things happen and it’s not the end of the world.

     


    OTHER QUESTIONS: HIV | WILLY WONDERS | HOLES | DOING IT | STIs | LUMPS & BUMPS | BACK TO SEX CLINIC HOME PAGE


     

    Got a problem you’d like advice on?

  • DILEMMAS | My boyfriend wants us to have an open relationship, but I’m worried this will be the end of us

    DILEMMAS | My boyfriend wants us to have an open relationship, but I’m worried this will be the end of us

    Reader Jack asks our experts whether he and his partner should open up their relationship.

    Dear TGUK.

    I’ve been with my boyfriend for about 3 years. Over the past few weeks we have been rowing constantly. He hadn’t been with any guys before me and felt that he’d missed out on a lot. He says he loves me but needs more. He’s suggested that we have an open relation and that we’re both free to go with other men. I’m not interested in sleeping with anyone else. I’m not sure if it’s what I want from a relationship but I’m afraid if I don’t agree to it, he’ll just cheat on me and leave anyway? If I do agree to it, he might meet someone else.

    Jack

     


     

    Hi Jack,

    It sounds like there is a lot happening for your relationship right now. All relationships, family sexual or romantic, go through changes and have to adapt along with the people in them. As part of this we need to renegotiate the terms and what we want from them. Although this may sound very cold and logical, of course isn’t when it comes relationships.

    From what you say. It sounds like your boyfriend is still exploring his own sexual identity, you were the first person he slept with and has been faithful to for the past three years. He is keen to experience sex with other guys but he still wants the security and intimacy that he obviously gets from being with you.

    The good news is you are both talking clearly about what you want. The channels of communication are very much open. You’ve discussed opening the relationship and the ramifications but has he said specifically what he’s missed out? It may be worth seeing if there is a specific aspect of sex that he wants to experiment. It may be something that you may want to try.

    It sounds like from your letter that you are not keen on the concept of an open relationship and that you would have insecurities about where it would lead. However you have also not dismissed the concept outright. This needs to be given equal weight in your discussion. As much as he has the desire to change the relationship, it’s ok if you don’t want to.

    It feels like it would be a good decision for you to talk clearly about the practicalities of it. Would he tell the men that he is in an open relationship? Will you discuss who, where and when? Would you do this before or after? In terms of the guys he will be meeting, would they just be one off encounters? Safe sex is also a vital part of this discussion. From doing this it will help you to make a decision based on fact and not from fear.

    As I said earlier, all relationships will change and adapt. The discussion about opening the relationship is fluid. It may be the case that you try being open. If it doesn’t work for you, then you can always bring this back to the table, you can always discuss closing the relationship again. Open relationships aren’t for everyone; they require a high degree of trust and understanding. Hopefully it gives both partners what they need to feel fulfilled.

     

    Have you got a dilemma you’d like us to answer? Click here to visit our dilemmas page.

  • SEX ADVICE: Tips For Great One Night Stands

    One Night Stands can be a whole mix of emotions from pre-bedroom nerves to an overwhelming fear of doing something wrong. Of course they can also be a lot of fun. We asked Sexpert Alix Fox about how to get the most from your one night stands. Having written for many large titles on the various aspects of sex, her nookie knowledge spans the whole sexual spectrum from beginner and vanilla to the most obscure and fascinating kooky kinks.

    CREDIT: © dnf style| Depositphotos

    “I’m a strong advocate of the idea that almost anything goes in the boudoir so long as it’s safe, consensual, and conscientiously considered, so whatever rocks your world is unlikely to shock this girl!” she smiles. “Equally though, I don’t preach that you have to be some kind of crazy wild child in order to have a satisfying love life – not at all. Sex isn’t a competition to see who can be the most bonkers, so I’m a big believer in getting the basics right, and recognising and developing whatever works for you.”

    Since she’s down-to-earth about getting down ‘n’ dirty, THEGAYUK asked Alix to give some top tips on getting the best from one night stands. “Often, the one night stand – or ONS – is simply a one-off night of indulgent fun for both partners,” she says, “but sometimes an ONS can leave both parties feeling like the experience could have been better, both physically and emotionally, and perhaps stop a could-have-been relationship in its tracks if it’s disappointing. There are no hard and fast rules about how to make a hard and fast night go brilliantly, but my tips are designed to avoid a one night stand becoming a stand-up comedy (or worse) and instead make it stand and deliver a damn great time, and maybe even lead to more.”

    Make sure your head’s in the right place (and I’m not talking about saucy positions). Many a lasting love has stemmed from what was originally intended to be a one night stand, and some people like to cut to the chase and find out quickly if they’re likely to be sexually compatible before they begin dating someone on a longer-term basis. However, the majority of ONSs are just that – one-time hook-ups. Ensure that you’re in the right frame of mind to appreciate this. Be honest with yourself about the situation, and realistic in your expectations. If, afterwards, it’ll make you bawl if they don’t call, an ONS could set you up for a fall.

    Clear the doom from your room. If you know you’re likely to be bringing someone back to your place, do at least a 10-minute basic tidy before you head out. Make your bed; whack dirty washing out of sight; make sure there’s bog roll and baby wipes in the bathroom so it’s easy for your ONS to freshen up before you get fresh; and for God’s sake, make sure there’s no poo in your loo. Ew! This may not be your style, but I like scented candles in my boudoir: not only do they make it smell delicious, but they cast light that’s much more flattering and relaxing than having the big bulb on.

    Get Durexcellent! Surely I do not need to tell you the zillion reasons why you need to use protection if a newcomer penis is going to feature in your plans. Carry at least a couple of condoms, and carry them correctly: they can get creased and damaged in your wallet, so slip some into a metal business card holder instead. Keep condoms by your bed, too – I empty mine into a discreet wooden box so that a new lover doesn’t see an opened packet and wonder who (ahem) came before him. Just make sure that if you have a mixture in there, they’re all in date. Top quality condoms mean peace of mind, easier use and better sensation. If you’re sleeping with someone for one night only, don’t risk the experience being downgraded by relying on some dodgy beer-flavoured novelty rubber from a pub vending machine.

    A range of condoms and other bedroom items can be found in our online store here.

    Don’t let ‘one on the rocks’ stop you getting your rocks off. It might be tempting to knock back extra booze to give you Dutch Courage before an ONS, but that ‘one for the road’ could make sex a car crash. Too much booze can make it tougher for gents to maintain an erection, and generally makes it more likely that your ONS will become a fumbling, bumbling, right rum do. Alcohol can make your mouth dry, too; grab a glass of water before you head to bed to keep kisses (and the rest) juicy.

    Check your bellybutton before you try to push buttons! Pre-sauce session, nip to the WC and check your navel isn’t full o’ fluff! If you’ve worn a new top or pants, and especially if you’re a hairy guy, there may be lint in there. It’s not seductive for a new partner to find Carpet World hiding in your tummybutton while they’re kissing their way down your happy trail.

    A kiss is not a contract. And neither is inviting someone into your home or going back to theirs. If you change your mind at any point during an ONS, that is just fine. You don’t owe anybody anything, so don’t feel obliged to go through with something or push yourself beyond your comfort zone ‘because you’ve already got this far’. The objective for both people is to have a good time. If you’re not, stop. And if your play pal says they’d like to slow down – or you just get the vibe that this might be the case even if they don’t pipe up – be cool, respectful and good-natured about it, and make it clear that just savouring some snogging together – or whatever – is A-OK. Being honourable is way more important than any orgasm.

    Turn ‘interruption’ into ‘intimacy’ or ‘intensity’. Some people complain that putting on condoms ‘interrupts the moment’ or ‘spoils the mood’, which can be particularly unwelcome during an ONS, but that doesn’t have to be the case at all. Putting a condom on means that all the attention is focused closely on the penis, and that can be an enticing, exciting thing for you both, rather than a moment of sombre, serious silence. If you’re not the one unrolling the condom, don’t sit staring like a spare part while he prepares his parts: be vocal about how hot his cock looks if you’re into dirty talk, or stroke his neck, nipples, torso or inner thighs. Suspect he needs to concentrate or not feel like he’s being watched, but don’t want to feel like a left-out lemon? Get behind him and kiss his neck or put your arms around him and lay your head on his back. Alternatively, put on a show that will keep him hard and thus make the condom-donning easier by touching yourself in front of him.

    Give a (hopefully genuine) compliment or two. You may never see your ONS again, but by saying something nice about how they look in the nude, or an aspect of their technique, you leave them with a pleasant memory and a confidence boost. Even if, in some ways, the sex turns out a little clumsily – as it can when you’re with a new partner whose body and tastes you’re unfamiliar with – simple praise like “Mmm, your ass is gorgeous!” or “You’re great at that” can help leave an overriding impression that the experience with you was a worthwhile, good one. Which is helpful if you do see them again.

    Make sure you can grab a cab. Install a taxi app on your mobile that uses GPS to find your location and allows you to pay using your pre-loaded credit card details, so that if you go back to someone else’s place, you can always get home safely and easily as and when you want to, without needing to give a cabbie directions or have cash on you.

    Talk with your hands. We all know good communication improves sex. In long-term relationships, you get to gradually explore about what your partner likes, and discuss what works for you both. Yet with a one night stand, you and your playmate may know little or nothing about each other’s preferences. You need to learn fast, but you’re eager for copulation, not conversation – so let your fingers do some of the talking instead. If you’re giving oral sex, try putting a digit in your lover’s mouth, telling them “Show me what you like”, and mimicking their movements and pace as they lick or suck it.

    Follow Alix on Twitter @AlixFox

  • Are you guilty of breadcrumbing a guy?

    It’s just so douchey…

    Are you guilty of breadcrumbing a guy?

    Apparently breadcrumbing is the new way of completely messing with people’s minds. Especially if they’re interested in dating you, but you’re just not so into them. Breadcrumbing is how you deal with guys that you’re not really interested in, but stringing along with flirty texts anyway.

    So the definition offered by Urban Dictionary is “the act of sending out flirtatious, but non-committal text messages (ie “breadcrumbs”) in order to lure a sexual partner without expending much effort,” which is kinda leading people on, right?

    It can also be used for someone you have broken up with but don’t quite want to let go… or keeping a guy on hold if you’re not quite ready to date him yet.

    Mobile or tech dating is just a fact of life in 2017 and sometimes it just tough to get a straight answer from someone so, like Madonna sings, “Don’t go for second best baby… Put your love to the test”.

  • 10 things every couple that is getting married needs to do (before the big day)

    Mental health campaigner Daniel Browne has compiled a “must do” list for couples who are planning to get married…

    top tips for planning a wedding

    Getting married should be the happiest, most wonderful time of your life. Sadly, it’s often the most stressful time of one’s life. It doesn’t need to be that way, though. If you’re due to get married, I’m here to help with my top 10 tips for banishing pre-wedding stress.

    Banish tech

    If you’ve been busy with planning your wedding, take some time out for yourself and your fiancé. Put your phones out of sight, turn off the television and all other technology distractions. Put on some music, pour yourself a large glass of wine and enjoy some quiet time with your partner. Allowing yourself that time to switch off and relax will bring huge benefits to your life.

    And breathe

    This isn’t as boring as it may sound. Try this… Sit quietly and take a deep breath in for a count of four. Then exhale for a count of four. Repeat this exercise for two minutes and take notice of how it begins to make you feel. I recommend making breathing exercises a part of your daily routine to keep stress at bay.

    Don’t forget sexy time

    It’s something enjoyable and the release of endorphins when in the throes of passion will put a huge smile on your face. If you’re not really up for sex, try my first tip and see if that to set the scene for an explosive, stress busting bonk.

    Go for a jog

    The previous tip may have covered that slightly, but sexercise isn’t the only stress busting activity you can indulge in. Getting regular exercise is key in reducing stress levels. Even just a twenty-minute walk each day can help, but if you’re feeling more energetic, get out there and pound the streets or join a gym class. You could even put on some music and dance like nobody is watching, which is surely one of the most fun things to do. If you’re not up for much exercise, make it a social occasion and exercise while catching up with friends. Which leads me to my next tip…

    Go out with friends

    When planning a wedding, it can be too easy to fall out of the loop with those closest to you. So set aside some time and make an effort to catch up with family and friends. You could involve them in your wedding planning, but I suggest putting the planning to one side and having a proper catch up with people. It’s sure to be a boost to your mood and a massive stress reducer.

    Bubble bath

    Sit back and relax. You deserve it. You could even invite your fiancé to join you.

    Dear Diary…

    It’s a good way of documenting your life and important events, but it can also help you to make sense of your thoughts and feelings. If you can understand your thoughts and the stress you feel, you can begin to work through it and come out the other side.

    Sleep

    Making sure you get your eight hours of sleep each night will help you to feel energised for your wedding planning. It may be tempted to stay up until the early hours of the morning sorting things for your wedding, but that just results in you feeling awful the next day and not able to function properly. You must take care of yourself.

    Make a list

    Wedding planning is exactly that; a plan. Be sure to schedule your time wisely in order to make sure you have time for all of the other tips in this guide. Set yourself targets and deadlines, and only spend so many hours each day on the wedding planning. There are only so many hours in a day and you don’t need to spend them all planning your wedding.

    Don’t overload

    It’s ok to ask for help and to delegate certain tasks to other people. Yes, you’re fabulous and can take on the world if you put your mind to it, but organising a wedding takes a lot of time and effort. You’re not Superman and don’t need masses of stress at what is supposed to be the most amazing time of your life. Don’t be afraid to ask your support network for help.