While in an interview that dealt with preparing for the summer from a health and beauty standpoint, I was asked what is a totally underrated thing that more women should do. My response? “Ladies should put their vagina on a summer diet.”
Although it might sound odd, here’s what I mean by that. This is the time of year when it’s hot and humid. It’s also when we tend to do more traveling and sometimes have extra time off. Not to mention the fact that our swimsuits and shorts may be on the snugger side. Factor all of these things in, and it equals out to the importance of being hypervigilant about keeping vaginal infections at bay while also doing our best to keep our sex drives going strong (for those romantic vacations and days when we can sleep in).
Well, something that can help to accomplish these goals is consuming a vagina-friendly diet that consists of several foods that happen to be in season during the summertime.
So, if you want both you and “her” feeling really good over the next couple of months, here are the following 15 foods (along with some recipes that feature them) that get — and keep — you both tight ‘n right in the best ways possible…all summer long.
1. Blackberries
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Whenever I’m looking to enjoy a light summer snack, some blackberries and whipped cream will oftentimes hit the spot. Blackberries are good for you because they are high in fiber, and they have vitamins C and K and manganese in them. Believe it or not, if you’re looking for a fruit that will help to keep your oral health on-point, blackberries have your back in that department too.
The reason why your vagina will appreciate you upping your blackberry intake is the vitamin C in them can help to heal and even prevent bacterial vaginosis. Also, since vitamin C is awesome at boosting your immunity, blackberries can help to keep bad bacteria from leading to a yeast infection.
Blackberries Recipe: Blackberry White Chocolate S’mores
2. Limes
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I like sour stuff, so nothing brings me more joy than a tall glass of Simply Limeade or even a limeade from Sonic (their ice is still king!). Shoot, even when I drink simple lime water, I’m looking out for my health in a delicious way because it’s got vitamins A, B, C, and D, magnesium, potassium, and even calcium in it — and all of these things work together to improve my digestion, keep my skin clear and even help me to shed a few pounds.
Since limes are also full of antioxidants, they can help stabilize your pH balance so that vaginitis isn't an issue for you. And since an unbalanced pH can cause things like vaginal odor, itchiness, and irritation, that’s something that you definitely should care about. Where are your limes at?
Limes Recipe: Lime Sorbet
3. Corn
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I don’t know what it is about fresh corn on the cob on a summer evening, but I can totally dig it. As a healthy grain, corn is chock full of water (over 70 percent), protein, and fiber. It’s also a good source of carbs, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, and copper. Since corn also contains vitamin C, it’s great when it comes to maintaining eye health and helping to keep cancer and heart disease at bay.
Your vagina will appreciate corn because the zinc and copper that’s in it will help keep your vaginal tissues nice and healthy. Some studies reveal that zinc is beneficial to women’s sex drive once they’ve become menopausal too.
Corn Recipe: Mexican Street Corn
4. Summer Squash
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Probably the best way to define summer squash is it’s the kind of squash that has rinds that can be consumed. When folks think of summer squash, what usually comes to mind is zucchini and yellow squash, although there are technically several others.
One of the best things about squash (at least in my opinion) is there are so many ways to prepare it: you can grill it, bake it, fry it, sautée it, roast it — and that’s just for starters. And every time you consume it, you can feel good about yourself because squash contains vitamins B6, C, and beta-carotene that can improve the health of your eyes and skin. Summer squash, specifically, also has vitamin A, along with phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and fiber.
All of this is beneficial to your vaginal health, indirectly, because things like low B6 lead to mood swings and a weakened immune system; low magnesium leads to weakness, body stiffness, and changes in personality; and low potassium leads to things like weakness and muscle cramping. Does any of this sound like the makings of a good time when it comes to sex? Exactly. Get some squash in. Your vagina will thank you for it.
Summer Squash Recipe: Sautéed Yellow Squash
5. Plums
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Something that is related to peaches and nectarines is plums. Plums are good for you because they’re a great source of fiber and a solid source of vitamin C. They also contain a fair amount of just about any other nutrient that you can imagine. Health benefits-wise, plums are also filled with antioxidants, are good for your health, and help keep your bones in great shape.
Plums make the “vagina summer diet” list because they also contain properties that help to reduce anxiety and stress. This is good to know because those types of feelings can cause irregular periods, vaginal dryness, and a low sex drive too.
Plums Recipe: Plum Tarts with Honey and Black Pepper
6. Watermelon
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Although I enjoy watermelon, something that irks the entire mess outta me about it is, it’s such a hit-or-miss type of fruit. Meaning, it’s either gonna be extremely sweet or basically some trash. If you share my sentiment and that’s why you don’t partake in it as much as you would like, from what I’ve read and researched, the rounder a watermelon is, the better. Not only that but the bolder and more consistent the stripes are on the melon indicate how ripe it is. Also, avoid green stems; those mean that the watermelon isn’t as sweet as you probably want it to be (you’re welcome, sis).
On to the health benefits. Since watermelon is made up of 92 percent water, it’s definitely a fruit that will help to keep you hydrated. It’s also a pretty good source of fiber, protein, and vitamin C, along with antioxidants and citrulline, which is an amino acid that helps to improve athletic performance. Citrulline is also dope because it can help men who deal with erectile dysfunction (which is why watermelon also has the nickname “natural Viagra”). Also, some studies say that it can help to decrease the discomfort that’s associated with sickle cell disease.
Why will your vagina adore watermelon? Well, I actually read a doctor’s interview that said that a consistent dose of citrulline can help to strengthen the pelvic floor of both men and women. The stronger your walls are, the easier it is to orgasm.
Watermelon Recipe: Watermelon Lemonade
7. Cucumber
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Another food that is made up of mostly water (96 percent, to be exact) is the cucumber. Nutrient-wise, it also can give you a fair amount of fiber, protein, and vitamin K along with antioxidants, potassium, and vitamin C. Health-wise, not only will cucumbers keep you hydrated, but they will also manage your blood sugar and help to keep you regular.
Cucumbers can be awesome as far as your vaginal health goes, mostly because vitamin K is linked to decreasing the chances of being diagnosed with an HPV infection. And since there’s also a connection between vitamin K and estrogen levels staying where they belong, eating cucumbers is always a win/win.
Cucumber Recipe: Cucumber Salsa
8. Cherries
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If you want to enjoy a big bowl of cherries while they are at their peak, make sure to cop you some before August 1; apparently, this is the window when they taste the absolute sweetest. And y’all, I’m not sure if too many things top how good cherries taste on a summer afternoon. As far as specific health benefits go, you’re gonna get some fiber, protein, vitamin C, and potassium. Cherries are also beneficial when it comes to the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that they carry, along with their ability to help with arthritic pain and improve your quality of sleep, thanks to the melatonin that is also in them.
Something else that’s great about cherries is, thanks to the magnesium that they contain, they can help to keep your cortisol (stress) hormone levels from spiking; as a direct result, your hormones are able to remain stabilized — this includes your sex hormones and the ones that help sex to feel good like oxytocin and dopamine. And yes, all of this is a shout-out to the health and well-being of your vagina in a semi-roundabout way.
Cherries Recipe: Cherry Slushie
9. Eggplant
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Don’t ask me to make you some eggplant parmesan because I promise you that I’m gonna hurt your feelings. I don’t know what inspired me to master that dish but chile…I have. Good thing, too, because eggplant is a fruit (yes, fruit) that is loaded with fiber and protein; it’s also got some vitamin A and vitamin C in it too. If you happen to be diabetic, polyphenols can keep your blood sugar in a good place. Also, eggplant contains cancer-fighting properties, and it can help to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Now get this: eggplant also has antioxidants in it, and one of them is called anthocyanins. Not only are they responsible for the fruit’s pigment, some studies say that it helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and improve menopause-related symptoms. Now how cool is that?
Eggplant Recipe: Best-Ever Eggplant Meatballs
10. Honeydew
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So, when was the last time that you cut into a honeydew melon? Not only is it a good source of fiber, protein, and potassium, honeydew also contains properties that help to reduce blood pressure levels, keep your blood sugar in a healthy place, and it’s filled with electrolytes as well. If you’ve ever been curious about what electrolytes do, they strengthen muscles, make exercising easier, improve cognitive function, strengthen immunity, and even enhance your quality of sleep at night.
Since studies reveal that people who are low in electrolytes tend to be fatigued, moody, and irritable, recommending honeydew for your vagina is more about your va-jay-jay getting some (more) action than anything — because when you feel refreshed and happy, how can that not translate, beautifully, in the bedroom…right?
Honeydew Recipe: Honeydew Blueberry Soup
11. Yogurt
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If you’re a vegetarian and you’re looking for a high-protein snack, look no further than yogurt. Since it also has calcium, magnesium and vitamin D in it, I’m sure you can see why it’s good for you on a few different levels — including the fact that it can help you to manage your weight, strengthen your heart and immunity and it could even reduce your chances of being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
Vagina-wise, yogurt is bomb because it also has a good amount of Vitamin B12 in it. And since studies show that a B12 deficiency is linked to things like vaginal dryness and even infertility, some frozen yogurt would be ideal in the heat in a myriad of different ways.
Yogurt Recipe: Grapefruit Yogurt Cake
12. TruFru
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When I tell you that I’ve been wondering where TruFru has been all of my life, ever since enjoying my first bag of some a couple of months ago — have mercy! If you’ve never had the pleasure, it’s frozen fruit pieces that are covered in white and dark chocolate. Although I can only comment on the raspberry and cherry ones, they also have bananas, pineapples, blueberries, and strawberries (and other dips, including dark chocolate and peanut butter, white chocolate and coconut, and ruby cacao).
We’ve already covered the benefits of berries and cherries, so let me focus on the dark chocolate part. Since dark chocolate is also full of antioxidants along with magnesium that helps to stimulate blood flow throughout your body — this means that your genital region can get a bit of a sexual stimulation kick which is always an excellent thing. (As a bonus, dark chocolate can protect your skin from damaging sun rays too!)
Anyway, if you want to read up more on TruFru, feel free to here. I’ve found mine at pretty much any local grocery store that I’ve been to, and, even though they aren’t the cheapest things on the planet, I’ve had no regrets, ever, when it comes to purchasing a bag (or three).
13. Mineral Water
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I make it no secret that “flat water” bores me to tears. So, the way that I get my water intake in is by drinking sparkling water; sometimes, it’s sparkling mineral water. Mineral water can be beneficial because it has magnesium, calcium, and fluoride (for starters) in it. These work together to promote bone health, lower your blood pressure, and even relieve constipation.
Consuming mineral water can help to maintain your vaginal health because the fewer toxins that are in your system, the less bad bacteria will affect your vagina. Plus, the more water that’s in your system, the more lubricated your vagina will naturally be. And that’s always a good thing…all the way around. Not to mention the fact that the magnesium in it can make PMS easier to bear.
Mineral Water Recipe: Ranch Water
14. Mezcal
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I’ve read enough comments from y’all to know that most of you have at least a few plans for yourself, some friends (or bae), and a couple of bottles of liquor. When it comes to selecting the best kind of alcohol, when was the last time you indulged in some mezcal? If you’ve never had any before, it’s a blend of agave and tequila and is considered to be one of the healthiest forms of alcohol around (check out bon appétit’s “Why Are All the ‘Healthy’ People Drinking Mezcal?”).
The combination of the agave and tequila can aid in weight loss, supporting bone health and reducing inflammation.
And since Mezcal can also help to boost the iron levels in your system and since iron deficiency can affect your metabolism and stress levels, and since stress can have a direct effect on your sex and feel-good hormones — why not enjoy a class or two of Mezcal this coming weekend? Get you and your vagina hype. Why not?
Mezcal Recipe: Mezcal Mango Smash
15. Red Wine
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As if you needed a reason or an excuse to drink a glass of wine tonight other than you want to, right? Still, doing so is helpful on a few levels. I say that because red wine is packed with antioxidants that work to balance your blood sugar levels, improve your memory, strengthen your heart, reduce your cancer risks, and fight off certain viruses too.
And looka here — science also says that if you consume a moderate amount of red wine on a fairly consistent basis, the properties in it will increase vaginal lubrication, sexual desire, and blood flow to your va-jay-jay, which makes climaxing easier and more intense.
So, do yourself and your vagina a favor and check out this list (here) of some of the best red wines for 2023. After you finish grocery shopping for the rest of these foods, there’s no better way to top off your meal — and the memories that you will be making this summer. Enjoy!
Red Wine Recipe: Red Wine Poached Pears
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The seeds for these entrepreneurs were planted during their time as students at schools like Spelman, North Carolina A&T, and more, which is why xoNecole caught up with Look Good Live Well’s Ariane Turner, HBCU Buzz’s Luke Lawal and Morehouse Senior Director of Marketing and Comms and Press Secretary Jasmine Gurley to highlight the role their HBCU roots play in their work as entrepreneurs, the legacy they aim to leave behind through the work that they do, and more as a part of Hyundai’s Best In Class initiative.
On Honoring HBCU Roots To Create Something That Is For Us, By Us
Ariane Turner
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When Ariane Turner launched Look Good, Live Well, she created it with Black and brown people in mind, especially those with sensitive skin more prone to dryness and skin conditions like acne and eczema.
The Florida A&M University graduate launched her business to create something that addressed topical skin care needs and was intentional about its approach without negative terminology.
Turner shared that it is important to steer clear of language often adopted by more prominent brands, such as “banishing breakouts” or “correcting the skin,” because, in reality, Turner says there is nothing wrong with the way that our skin and bodies react to various life changes.
“I think what I have taken with me regarding my HBCU experience and translated to my entrepreneurial experience is the importance of not just networking,” Turner, the founder and CEO of Look Good, Live Well, tellls xoNecole.
“We hear that in business all the time, your network is your net worth, but family, there’s a thing at FAMU that we call FAMU-lee instead of family, and it’s very much a thing. What that taught me is the importance of not just making relationships and not just making that connection, but truly working on deepening them, and so being intentional about connecting with people initially, but staying connected and building and deepening those relationships, and that has served me tremendously in business, whether it’s being able to reach back to other classmates who I went to school with, or just networking in general.”
She adds, “I don’t come from a business background. As soon as I finished school, I continued with my entrepreneurial journey, and so there’s a lot of that traditional business act and the networking, those soft skills that I just don’t have, but I will say that just understanding how to leverage and network community and to build intentional relationships is something that has taken me far and I definitely got those roots while attending FAMU.”
On Solving A Very Specific Need For The Community
Luke Lawal Jr.
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When Luke Lawal Jr. launched HBCU Buzz, his main focus was to represent his community, using the platform to lift as they climbed by creating an outlet dedicated to celebrating the achievements and positive news affecting the 107 historically HBCUs nationwide.
By spotlighting the wonderful things that come from the HBCU community and coupling it with what he learned during his time at Bowie State University, Lawal used that knowledge to propel himself as an entrepreneur while also providing his people with accurate representation across the internet.
“The specific problem in 2011 when I started HBCU Buzz was more so around the fact that mainstream media always depict HBCUs as negative,” Lawal says. “You would only see HBCUs in the mainstream media when someone died, or the university president or someone was stepping down. It was always bad news, but they never shed light on all the wonderful things from our community."
So, I started HBCU Buzz to ensure the world saw the good things that come from our space. And they knew that HBCUs grew some of the brightest people in the world, and just trying to figure out ways to make sure our platform was a pedestal for all the students that come through our institutions.”
“The biggest goal is to continue to solve problems, continue to create brands that solve the problems of our communities, and make sure that our products, our brands, our companies, and institutions are of value and they’re helping our community,” he continues. “That they’re solving problems that propel our space forward.”
On How Being An HBCU Alum Impacts The Way One Shows Up In The World
Jasmine Gurley
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Jasmine Gurley is a proud North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University alum. She is even more delighted with her current role, which enables her to give back to current HBCU students as the Senior Director of Brand Marketing and Communications and official press secretary at Morehouse College.
“It was a formative experience where I really was able to come into my own and say yes to all the opportunities that were presented to me, and because of that, it’s been able to open the doors later in life too,” says Gurley of her experience at North Carolina A&T. “One thing I love about many HBCUs is that we are required to learn way more about African American history than you do in your typical K through 12 or even at the higher ed level."
She adds, “It allowed us to have a better understanding of where we came from, and so for me, because I’m a storyteller, I’m a history person, I’m very sensitive to life in general, being able to listen to the stories and the trials that our ancestors overcame, put the battery pack in my back to say, ‘Oh nothing can stop me. Absolutely nothing can stop me. I know where I came from, so I can overcome something and try anything. And I have an obligation to be my ancestors’ wildest dreams. Simultaneously, I also have a responsibility to help others realize that greatness.
Gurley does not take her position at an HBCU, now as a leader, lightly.
“People think I’m joking when I say I’m living the dream, but I really am,” she notes. “So I wake up every day and know that the work that I do matters, no matter how hard it might be, how frustrating it may be, and challenging it. I know the ripple effect of my work, my team, and what this institution does also matter. The trajectory of Black male experiences, community, history, and then just American advancement just in general.”
On the other hand, through her business, Sankofa Public Relations, Gurley is also on a mission to uplift brands in their quest to help their respective communities. Since its inception in 2017, Sankofa PR has been on a mission to “reach back and reclaim local, national, and global communities by helping those actively working to move” various areas of the world, focusing on pushing things forward for the better.
“Through Sankofa, we’ve worked with all different types of organizational brands and individuals in several different industries, but I would think of them as mission-based,” says Gurley.
“So with that, it’s an opportunity to help people who are trying to do good in the world, and they are passionate about what they’re doing. They just need help with marketing issues, storytelling, and branding, and that’s when my expertise can come into play. Help them get to that moment where they can tell their story through me or another platform, and that’s been super fulfilling.”
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
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Flirting can be a fun and exciting way to show interest in someone, but when it comes to flirting with other women, many of us find ourselves feeling uncertain. Is it like flirting with men? Yes—and no. While the fundamentals of flirting remain the same, nuances specific to queer relationships often add layers of complexity. If you're a bisexual, bi-curious, or queer woman looking to flirt with other women but feel unsure about where to start, this guide is for you.
Understanding the Flirting Dynamic
First, let’s acknowledge the struggle. For many women, flirting with another woman can feel awkward or even intimidating. There’s often an underlying societal pressure to “prove” one’s queerness, which can manifest as anxiety around making sure you’re coming across as genuinely interested—especially when navigating the tricky territory of interpreting another woman’s signals. Is she queer? Is she even attracted to women? This uncertainty can create an extra layer of tension.
As Irma Garcia, a certified sex educator, explains, “One common challenge queer women face when flirting with other women is that their advances are often mistaken for friendliness. This can create confusion, especially in femme-to-femme dynamics, where traditional markers of flirting overlap with how femmes generally interact—warm, playful, and supportive.” It can be hard to convey flirtation between women, but confidence begins with this mindset shift.
The key to overcoming awkward feelings or misunderstandings is stepping boldly into your identity. Be prepared for some pushback or rejection. But remember, you’re attracted to women, and that attraction is valid.
Flirting 101: Confidence Starts with Eye Contact
So let's talk practical advice, shall we? The most subtle, yet impactful, form of flirting starts with eye contact. When flirting with other women, eye contact is your first tool in breaking the ice. It’s a silent, non-verbal way of showing interest, and it can communicate attraction without saying a word.
“Maintaining eye contact signals engagement,” Irma advises. “But the trick is finding that sweet spot where it’s not too intense. Eye contact combined with a smile invites the other person into your world in a flirty, approachable way.”
Eye contact and a genuine smile act as a non-verbal invitation, showing the other woman that you’re open and interested.
Here’s how to do it: Hold her gaze for a few seconds longer than usual and smile in a way that feels comfortable. Look at her lips, cheeks, and chin, and then back up at her eyes. Remember to listen. (It will show on your face if your mind isn’t on what she is saying.) Stay present and remember not every glance needs to be intense; subtlety can go a long way in creating a flirtatious atmosphere.
Compliments Are Your Best Friend
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Once eye contact has been established, the next step is leveling up the flirtation with a well-placed compliment. Specific, thoughtful compliments can make someone feel seen and appreciated. Instead of going for something generic like “You look nice,” try focusing on a unique aspect of her style or personality. Complimenting her laugh, her fashion sense, or even her energy can show her that you’re paying attention.
“Compliments are beautiful gifts,” says Irma. “Complimenting someone’s personality or the essence of who they are as a person feels more meaningful than surface-level flattery. It’s about being an active listener and making sure your compliments reflect the person’s true self.”
Be sincere. A specific compliment feels personal, and it’s more likely to stand out.
Avoid comments that feel rehearsed or overly familiar, and focus on what genuinely stands out to you about the person. A well-thought-out and genuine compliment will pay off big time!
Building Connection Through Touch
Introducing physical touch into the flirting equation can deepen the connection, but it needs to be done with care and sensitivity. Touch is a powerful tool for creating intimacy, but knowing when and how to incorporate it is key.
“Consent is just as crucial in queer dynamics as in any other,” says Irma. “If you’re ever uncertain, simply ask! Phrases like, ‘Is it okay if I hug you?’ or ‘Can I hold your hand?’ show respect for boundaries without breaking the flirtatious energy.”
Start small. A light touch on the arm during conversation or a gentle brush of hands can signal interest while giving the other person space to reciprocate or pull back. Pay close attention to her body language—if she leans in, she’s likely interested in escalating the interaction. If she pulls away, it’s important to respect that and shift gears.
Putting It All Together
Now that we’ve covered the basic building blocks—eye contact, compliments, and touch—let’s look at how they flow together in real-life scenarios. Picture this: You’re at a house party, sitting close to a woman you find attractive. As she talks, you maintain eye contact and listen intently. She cracks a joke, and you compliment her sense of humor. If she responds positively, you can initiate a light, casual touch on her hand or arm to test the waters.
Maybe she leans closer as you continue chatting. You continue to maintain eye contact and place your hand on her shoulder, leaving it a bit longer. She responds positively, smiling and placing her hand on your knee. You keep following, eye contact, compliment, and light touch. Boom, you’re flirting!
This step-by-step process helps build a natural rhythm in flirting, making it easier to navigate from the first glance to more intimate exchanges.
As Irma points out, “Confidence comes from being present in the moment and enjoying the interaction rather than worrying about the outcome.”
Developing Your Own Flirting Style
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While this guide offers a road map, it’s important to develop your own style of flirting. Authenticity is always the most attractive quality. Experiment with these techniques, but don’t feel confined to them. Maybe your style is more playful, or perhaps you prefer deep, meaningful conversations. Whatever feels most comfortable for you is what’s going to resonate best with others.
Irma emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself: “Trying to adopt a different persona can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. Authenticity is key! Pay attention to your body language, lean in, maintain eye contact, and let the energy flow naturally.”
Overcoming Misconceptions About Same Gender Flirting
Finally, it’s crucial to address the misconceptions and bi-phobia that bisexual, bi-curious, and queer women may encounter while flirting with other women.
As Irma highlights, “There’s sometimes an assumption that bisexual women are ‘just experimenting’ or ‘not serious,’ which can lead to unfair judgments.” The best way to navigate these misconceptions is through open communication. Be clear about your intentions and assert your desires with confidence.
By surrounding yourself with affirming spaces and individuals who validate your queerness, you can minimize the impact of biphobia and focus on connecting with women who appreciate and reciprocate your energy.
Empowering You to Explore Your Bisexuality
Flirting with women doesn’t need to be daunting. With the right mindset, it can be an empowering experience. By starting with small, confident gestures—eye contact, compliments, and gentle touch—you can build meaningful connections with other women while exploring your bisexuality in a fun and fulfilling way. Remember, flirting is supposed to be playful and sexy. So, take the pressure off yourself, be authentic, and enjoy the journey.
As Irma Garcia puts it: “Confidence is a state of mind, baby! You have to flip that internal switch and own the fact that you’re that girl.” So go out there and flirt like you mean it.
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