Here’s What Swinging Is Actually Like #FactVsFiction

Author

#open

August 12, 2020

So you and your partner have recently decided to open up your relationship and are interesting in swinging…great!

You start by heading to the interwebs for information, and as expected, you’re overwhelmed with the information surrounding the nuances of Ethical Non-Monogamy. That’s okay — you’re not alone! While we might not have the word limit or time to tell you EVERYTHING you need to know about ENM (it would take days), we’re here to breakdown the facts and fictions.

What is swinging?

Swinging is a sexual practice in which singles or people in committed, ethically non-monogamous relationships engage in sexual activities with other couples and singles as a form of recreation and socialization.

Facts:

Swinging falls under the umbrella term “Non-Monogamy” and is the practice of playing with others with your partner or while your partner is present — usually on a regular basis

If you and your partner agree to date/play completely separately, swinging may not be the best term to describe your situation — and that’s okay! Any ethically non-monogamous dynamic that works for you and your partner is a valid one!

It requires communication and honesty

Just like any challenging situation, a copious amount of discussion, transparency and understanding is necessary to successfully navigate the lifestyle. Communicating with your partner in depth, and often, will help make sure that you are both on the same page at all times.

There are rules!

While fulfilling desires is the goal of swinging, this cannot be done successfully without you and your partner identifying your boundaries. Safe sex practices, no kissing, SOFT SWAP, FULL SWAP, and various OTHER “RULES” may be established between you and your partner while swinging.

Find other open couples & singles on #open

Fiction:

It is uncommon & a little weird

Studies have shown that 80% of people have fantasized about some form of an open relationship and 97% of #OPEN members practice and or are interested in Ethical Non-Monogamy!

It will save your relationship

Swinging is not the answer for a failing relationship. While swinging can absolutely improve partnerships, it shouldn’t be introduced or attempted as a “Hail Mary”.

It’s just for older couples who have been married forever

The swinging community spans all demographics! No two “swingers” look, or act, alike!

It’s important to find a swinging community that works for you and your partner. There are plenty of groups, clubs, and other organizations (like #OPEN), that can help connect you with other swingers and resources!

In conclusion, take a deep breath, continue to do your research, and congratulations on making the step toward ENM! The swinging community can’t wait to meet you and your partner.

Looking for more resources?

There are tons of resources dedicated to the lifestyle, books, blogs and podcasts just to name a few. Here’s some of our favourites, head on over and check them out to learn more about nonmonogamous and alternative lifestyles.

Remember that at the end of the day there is a lot of fiction and fact out there about alternative lifestyles. Checking out a few resources can be a great way to learn about the hosts perspective to the lifestyle and can help create conversation between you and your partner on how you want to approach the lifestyle.

There is no one way fits all to the lifestyle and we love it when couples create their own relationship by design.

You can also check out our Youtube channel, which offers a variety of resources for those new to swinging, kink, and/or non-monogamy.