Couples seeking to enhance their intimate experiences may find interest in a technique that relationship experts are actively endorsing.
The current intimate trend gaining attention is called “shallowing,” but what exactly does this practice involve?
This technique was formally identified in academic literature during 2021, though it represents a familiar form of intimacy rather than an entirely novel approach.
Research conducted by the Indiana University School of Medicine brought this practice into mainstream discussion approximately four years ago.
Their study surveyed over 4,000 women and revealed that nearly 84 percent of American women between ages 18 and 93 experienced enhanced pleasure from this type of intimate activity, leading to the formal recognition of shallowing.
This practice involves gentle stimulation focused on the vaginal entrance, with participants using various methods including fingers, intimate devices, or other forms of contact to provide pleasure to their partner.
Discussing this technique, Cecile Gasnault, brand director of an intimate wellness company, explained in 2022: “If you practice penetrative intimacy, you might have already found it pleasurable when pressure is created at the vaginal entrance before or at the very beginning of penetration. The same applies with devices or fingers. The idea is to go in only by a few centimeters.”
Relationship expert Ness Cooper previously noted that intimate communication can trigger the release of beneficial hormones like dopamine and oxytocin, which not only enhance arousal but also strengthen emotional bonds between partners.
She added that testosterone release during these moments can contribute to increased arousal and satisfaction.
Safety remains an important consideration during intimate moments, with relationship expert Annabelle Knight recently providing guidance on preventing bedroom injuries.
Speaking on behalf of an intimate wellness company, Knight advised: “Placing a pillow under the lumbar spine can reduce back injuries or discomfort. It may also help increase pleasure during intimate contact. If someone experiences knee discomfort in certain positions, transitioning to a standing position while their partner remains on the bed may help avoid this issue.”
She continued: “Adjusting your proximity to your partner’s body may make movements easier or more challenging and can reduce muscle fatigue – experimentation is key to finding what works best.