If you’ve ever heard that, regardless of what your favorite season may be, there is good in all of them, there is so much wisdom in that. For instance, although I am a huge fan of fall, that doesn’t mean that I don’t get that the other three seasons don’t have their perks as well…even sexually.
What exactly do I mean by that? Well, believe it or not, although fall and winter are reportedly the best times of year for coitus (check out “Did You Know Fall & Winter Are The Best Times To Have Sex?”), thatabsolutely does not mean that summer doesn’t have a ton of sexual perks that come with it too.
Yeah, I did some digging and discovered 10 solid science-based reasons why these next couple of months maybe when you find yourself creating some of the best sex-related memories you’ve had in a hot minute, chile.
Let’s check ‘em out.
1. Sunlight Elevates Your Serotonin Levels
There are a lot of benefits that come from spending time in the sun. One of them is the fact that sunlight helps to increasethe levels of serotonin in your system. This is dope becauseserotonin is a chemical in your body that is significant when it comes to things like keeping you in a good mood and making sure that your libido remains high.Another cool thing about serotonin is it can reduce anxiety and bring about a feeling of calm — which is always a big plus since there isplenty of research to support the fact that anxiety can make it difficult for both men and women to climax.
2. Sunlight Also Decreases Melatonin Levels
If you’ve ever wondered if it’s all in your head that you tend to have more energy during the summer months while feeling sleepier during the late fall and winter ones, it’s not.Something else that science reveals is sunlight has a way of decreasing melatonin levels in your system. Sincemelatonin is a hormone/compound that literally regulates your sleep patterns, being that days are longer in the summer, that can also give you more energy to get busy. No joke.
3. More Vitamin D Means an Estrogen and Testosterone Boost
Something that you probably learned in elementary school is you can get a good amount of the vitamin D that your body needs from the sun.Since it’s a nutrient that helps to boost your immunity, fight off depression, and keep your weight in check, this is certainly good to know.
However, were you also aware that vitamin D is able to increase the amount of estrogen and testosterone that’s in your system as well? This is good to know since both of those are sex hormones that can help you to have a more satisfying sex life.
As a bonus, vitamin D can also help to activate the genes that help your body produce more serotonin (which we’ve already discussed) and dopamine (a neurotransmitter and chemical that helps you to feel more pleasure). Hey, if all of this won’t make you want to spend more time in the sun, what will?
4. More Exercise Means a Heightened Libido
If there’s any time of year when people are super physically active, the summer season would be it. Whether it’s getting (and/or staying) fit for swimsuit season, playing outdoor games, or enjoying things like hiking and swimming, summer is when folks tend to spend less time in front of the tube and more time moving about. And you know what?Your libido adores everything about that becauseexercise helps to get you into better shape (which boosts your sexual confidence), gives you more energy, improves your stamina, intensifies your orgasms (bygiving you a stronger core and pelvic floor), and increases your blood circulation (which is also great for orgasms) too.
5. Heat Increases Blood Circulation
Speaking of blood circulation, although you may have never thought of it before, it probably makes all of the sense in the world thatyour blood circulation would increase during the summertime. That’s because heat and humidity increase blood flow (especially to your skin) and cause your heart rate to go up as well. And since, again,more blood flow directly contributes to orgasms, well…you already know that this is a good thing to keep in mind.
6. More Sweat Equals More Pheromones
Probably the easiest way to explain pheromones is they are chemicals that can trigger certain reactions in people when they come into some level of contact with them. For instance, one way that pheromones are excreted is through sweat, and, science says, whenever women come into contact with a man who is sweating/sweaty, it can actually make her hornier and even release certain hormones that are associated with ovulation. Believe it or not, what’s especially stimulating is a man’s underarm sweat (wild, right?).
7. Heat Leads to Less Clothes Which Means More Skin
I don’t know about where y’all live butNashville has been showing all the way out over these past few weeks with the heat index being in the triple digits. And when there’s more heat, there tend to be fewer clothes…and when you’ve got a partner, that can result inmore skin-to-skin contact. While, when it comes to adults and babies, it’s oftentimes known as “kangaroo care,” when adults participate in this practice,the oxytocin that’s released makes it easier to bond with your partner. Not only that but skin-to-skin contact makes it easier to feel calm and relaxed and it can give youa sounder night’s rest too— you know…afterwards (check out “6 Fascinating Ways Sex And Sleep Definitely Go Hand In Hand”). #wink
8. You Tend to Be Around More People in the Summer Season
Another semi-random reason why a ton of sex happens during the summertime is thatmore people lean into socializing during this time of the year — and so, even if you’re not currently seeing someone, the chances that you will run into an individual who has some serious potential increases when it’s hot outside. That’s actually why some intel says thatcasual sex happens the most in the early part of summer (June) too (wrap it up!).
9. Vacations Happen Most During the Summer
With the summer season continuing to bethe most popular time to go on vacation (to the point whereone in three people are even willing to go into debt in order to make it happen), this is a peak reason why individuals tend to have a lot of sex —especially adventurous sex — during the summertime. Vacations (hopefully) de-stress you, give you the chance to spend quality time with the people you love, and help you to be in the moment — all of which help to play a significant role in a satisfying sex life. So, if you don’t have a vacation — even if it’s just a long weekend — planned this summer, put a sexcation on the books.
10. Online “Sex Searches” Increase in the Summertime
Now here’s one that I found to be pretty damn interesting. It would appear that summer is the time of year whensex-related online searches tend to spike. Although researchers are still trying to connect all of the dots on this one sinceonline dating also peaks during this time of the year (because folks are typically happier, are feeling sexier, and tend to be more open and creative when it comes to dating), that could play a major role.
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There you have it. Whether or not this is your favorite time of year or not, research has given you 10 impressive reasons to enjoy the season you’re in — on a few levels, chile. Have fun! #wink
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
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Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert