How secret languages and intimate communication bring couples closer
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Language is a tool for connection, and this is most visible in the subtle, idiosyncratic languages that couples establish over time. These "secret languages" may appear ridiculous and, let's face it, downright cringe to outsiders, but within a partnership, Read More...
How a healthy sex life boosts seniors' cognitive health
Researchers discovered an intriguing link between regular sexual activity and cognitive health in senior persons in a study published recently in The Journal of Sex Research. Based on data from The University of Chicago's National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSLHA), the study intended Read More...
What is validation and why do we need it in relationships?
Validation is crucial for building healthy relationships. This word encompasses the simple act of listening and understanding another person, which communicates that you “get” what they might be going through. In other words, validation is reflecting what another person might be feeling, and Read More...
Sex tips for seniors—what older women need to know
As we age, our bodies may change in ways that make it more difficult to engage in sexual activities, but that doesn’t mean that the desire fades away. According to gynecologist Katie Propst, MD, for many women over 50 the act of sex, even if they really want it, can begin to present challenges Read More...
Best friends, lovers, or both? Relationship experts on defining a romantic relationship
While some people might believe that being best friends with their romantic partner is the relationship ideal, not everyone agrees. To others, a best friend and a romantic partner are and should be two different relationships. However, according to relationship experts, the answer to this question Read More...
How to break up with your phone
It’s dawning on many of us that the way we engage with our phones simply isn’t healthy. According to data from Moment, a time-tracking app with almost five million users, the average person spends four hours a day on their phone. To make matters worse, according to a recent Pew Research Center Read More...
Rethinking “consent” part I—extending a sexy invitation
In terms of sexual relations, the idea of consent and consent education has been picking up speed in recent years, with things like the #MeToo movement and the rise of women’s rights and empowerment propelling its progress forward. While this is certainly moving along the right trajectory, there Read More...
How to embrace a single life to the fullest
Following the theme of healthy relationships and intimacy this week, this article is for people who are embracing single life. Our culture is steeped in subliminal messaging that having a partner is a must. With a "happily ever after" with the perfect match being the end goal. However, this Read More...
Understanding your own sexual boundaries—a crucial step for healthy sex
Establishing boundaries is an essential part of leading a healthy, satisfying, and fulfilling sex life. We’ve shared stories in the past about setting boundaries when it comes to personal relationships, and for work (a prevailing issue for many of us, especially as more and more people Read More...
3 tips to bring more intimacy into your relationship
Intimacy is a crucial part of any healthy, fulfilling relationship and goes beyond what happens in the bedroom. Whether you're looking to reconnect with a long-term lover or discover more about a new partner, here are three ways to boost intimacy in your relationship. Learn your love Read More...