Polyamory: What It Means and How It Works
Increasingly liberal attitudes to sex have paved the way for an era where open relationships are largely the norm. Not to mention, a time when men (and women) of all ages can enjoy a genuinely satisfying relationship with Skype webcam girls, as an alternative to conventional dating.
What is interesting is how while all this is going on, most people still aren’t entirely aware of what ‘polyamory’ really is. Or more importantly, how it can, actually, be beneficial.
What is Polyamory, and Why is it So Appealing?
Polyamory is, in short, a form of consensual non-monogamy that involves having multiple romantic and/or sexual relationships, with the knowledge and consent of all parties involved. It’s essentially the more formal term for an open relationship, where those involved have relations with other people and everyone knows what’s going on.
While polyamory may not be for everyone, there are many possible benefits to exploring this lifestyle. These include:
• Increased Emotional Support
When you have multiple partners, you have access to a wider network of emotional support. Each partner can provide unique perspectives, insights and types of support that can help you grow and navigate life’s challenges.
• More Diverse Experiences
Having multiple partners can also mean more diverse sexual experiences, as well as opportunities to explore different interests and hobbies with different partners.
• Deeper Connections
Many polyamorous people find that having multiple relationships allows them to form deeper connections with each partner. When you’re not limited to just one partner, you can explore different aspects of yourself and your relationships with each person.
• More Flexibility
Polyamory can offer more flexibility than traditional monogamous relationships.
You can negotiate the terms of your relationships with each partner, and you have the freedom to explore different types of relationships (such as long-distance or casual relationships) that might not be possible in a monogamous context.
• Improved Self-Awareness
Polyamory can help you become more self-aware, as you will need to examine your own desires, motivations and feelings in order to effectively communicate with your partners and navigate any potential conflicts or issues.
Of course, there’s also the all-round confidence and satisfaction that comes with playing the field, without having to worry about consequences or guilt.
How to Explore the World of Polyamory
Like most things, getting into the whole polyamory thing for the first time can feel a bit weird. If it’s something you’ve always been curious about but have never actually experienced, knowing where to start is half the battle.
Fresh from those who know (and embrace) all the benefits of this surprisingly popular lifestyle choice, here are the most important things you need to do to enjoy polyamory:
• Do Your Research
Before jumping into polyamory, take some time to read up on the topic and familiarize yourself with common terms and concepts.
There are many resources available online and in print that can help you understand the basics of polyamory.
• Be Honest with Yourself
Before pursuing any kind of non-monogamous relationship, it’s important to be honest with yourself about your desires, motivations and boundaries.
Ask yourself why you want to explore polyamory, and be prepared to communicate your needs and boundaries clearly to any potential partners.
• Be Open With Your Partners
Communication is key in polyamorous relationships. Make sure you have open and honest conversations with each partner about what you’re looking for, what your boundaries are, and what your expectations are for the relationship.
• Practice Safer Sex
When you’re having sex with multiple partners, it’s important to prioritize safety.
Use condoms and/or other forms of protection to prevent the spread of STIs, and make sure you and your partners are on the same page about your sexual health.
• Be Prepared for Jealousy
Even in consensual non-monogamous relationships, jealousy can still be a factor.
It’s important to recognize and address any feelings of jealousy or insecurity that may arise, and to work with your partners to find ways to manage these feelings.
• Be Respectful of Everyone’s Boundaries
In a polyamorous relationship, everyone’s boundaries and needs are important. Make sure you respect your partners’ boundaries and communicate your own clearly and respectfully.
Boiled down to its basics, polyamory is a lifestyle choice that gives you the opportunity to play the field without ever actually ‘cheating’ in the conventional sense.
However, it only works if each and every individual you’re involved with is on the same page, making honesty and openness essential.
