When it comes to ensuring a relationship remains successful long-term, the importance of good sex should never be underestimated. Benefits of a good sex life range from everything such as deepening your connection and intimacy, to lowering blood pressure and even improving your self-esteem.

But finding new ways to ignite excitement and fun in the bedroom can often be challenging – especially in a world where it feels like almost everything has been “done”, or even just for those who are in long-term relationships.

Expert Relationship Counselor and Clinical Sexologist Dr. Martha Tara Lee has stepped in this New Year to remind people that everyone deserves a healthy and experimental sex life, and argues that those who are dumping it at the bottom of their 2023 priorities list should think twice.

“Many people are going into 2023 experiencing high levels of stress – which often takes a huge toll on the people we are in a relationship with,” says Lee.

“I’m urging anyone in this position to change their ways in 2023, by turning the heat back up with their partners this year. There have been plenty of studies already from companies within the industry who have each predicted this year’s top 2023 sex trends, and let me tell you now – they’re worth a read.”

Here are Lee’s top picks for sexual trends in 2023…

1) Mindfulness and Wellbeing

Lee says that following the pandemic, there has been a huge emphasis on mindfulness and wellbeing in all areas – including our sex lives.

“I think people are realizing the unreliability of life now, and with that comes a bigger desire to take better care of themselves in all areas. In 2023, we can expect to see more men and women placing an importance on their well-being and appearance, with cleaner, healthier and more hygienic products even being used.

2) Sustainability

When it comes to things being the topic of conversation in 2023, it’s safe to say that the environment and sustainability will be top of mind.

“This year, we can expect to see far more biodegradable, solar powered, and fully recyclable sex toys available for eco-conscious consumers. Just as customers are becoming more aware of general manufacturing processes in all areas of their life, they are also making sure they remain environmentally responsible when it comes to sex products.”

3) Sex toys

“Sex toy sales saw a huge surge during lockdown, and the pace of this has not slowed down since,” says Lee.

According to studies, she says, the introduction of new technology in sex toys has also led to this huge increase, and she advises people to look out for new toys and updates throughout 2023 to see how else couples can spark up their sex life with ease.

4) Open intimacy

A normal way to boost intimacy in the bedroom is to be open to experimentation, but in 2023, Lee says couples are going to be more open than ever.

“Every year there becomes less stigma on different types of romantic relationships, and with that comes comfortability in talking about things you would like to explore. Whether it’s switching roles in the bedroom, having sex in different places, times or being more spontaneous. Any judgement should be out of the window by now.”

5) Sexual fantasies

“Fantasies can be quite different for men and women,” says Lee.

“Sexual fantasies have also existed for many years, but as part of the removal of any stigma we have already previously mentioned, sharing your fantasies more deeply this year with your partner is expected to help you both connect, deepen your intimacy and even provide more insights into who you are – or what makes you ‘tick’.”

For relationship counseling and/ or sexuality counseling, do contact me here.

About Dr. Martha Tara Lee