I’ve been some flavor of consensually non-monogamous for over 15 years. During those years, I have had to come out as poly to psychiatrists, therapists, primary care physicians, surgeons, specialists, and nurse practitioners. I’m lucky in that I live in a relatively progressive state and care very little what people think of my personal life, but back when I was a military spouse? I would have been horrified to try to broach the topic. Whether you’re newly poly and coming out to a health care provider you’ve had for years, you’ve been poly for a long time and have a new provider, or anything i ..read more

Going out can be intimidating, especially when staying home in a teddy bear onesie and watching Netflix sounds really great. But variety is the spice of life! Getting out of your comfort zone and having new experiences can be a great way to meet new friends, find a new favorite spot, or simply have an occasion to put on a cute outfit. Whether you’re hanging out with friends or flying solo, here are some tips for going out as an introvert. Go to events that are your speed First things first, find events that you think will be fun for you! Check out local clubs and bars for parties that might sp ..read more

Navigating the murky waters of dating and relationships is no easy feat. One minute you’re swiping right, buzzing with first date excitement, and the next, you’re sweating bullets trying to craft a text that says, “I’m just not that into you,” without sounding like a heartless monster. If the thought of letting someone down gives you anxiety-induced tummy troubles, fear not! We’ve got you covered with a guide to this tough conversation. 1. Embrace the awkward First things first: accept that this is going to be awkward. There’s no magical phrase that can make that not be true. But remember, fee ..read more

Summertime is heating up, and the astrology of July is bringing everyone a perfect balance of sweet and sizzling cosmic opportunities. Soft and tender-hearted Cancer season has everyone floating in feelings and building emotional connections. But once the fierce and fiery energy of Leo season swoops in on June 22th, it’s time to flaunt your sexiness and add some sass and sparkle to your summer flirtations. And don’t forget: wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and use your birth control! Cancer June 21st -July 22nd Happy birthday season, Cancer! The new moon in your sign on July 5th is the perfect t ..read more

Let’s set the scene: You just had a first date. It was…okay. Not fireworks, not a disaster, just fine. But they were nice, and you think maybe you could like them at some point. When they ask for a second date, it would be so easy to say yes because you feel guilty saying no, because you feel like you should be dating more, because you can’t really come up with a “good reason” not to, or any number of other reasons that don’t have to do with actually wanting to go on a second date. But sometimes, even if there weren’t any serious red flags, there are still good reasons to say “thanks, but no t ..read more

Ugh, dating. While it definitely has its perks, figuring out how to communicate with a relative stranger via text is not one of them. It’s so easy to leave things up in the air when you didn’t mean to, to imply that you want something more when you don’t, or to accidentally declare your love when all you wanted to do was grab a drink. We’ve put together some examples of texts you can use in different dating scenarios, whether you’re looking for a casual hookup, you’re interested in a relationship, or you just want to be friends. 1. The playful hook-up invitation The scenario: You’re interested ..read more

Want to celebrate Pride but not really a party person? Here are five ways to show your support for the LGBTQ+ community that don’t involve going to the club or dealing with huge crowds. 1. Support smaller events There is more to do during Pride besides go to big, colorful parades and parties in crowded clubs. If you want a Pride experience that’s a little more artsy, cozy, or educational, consider attending events hosted by local LGBTQ+ artists or smaller LGBTQ+ organizations. These events can include: Art shows Dance classes Open mic nights Craft festivals Film screenings Pop-up thrift shops ..read more

Relationships are heating up as the summer solstice draws near, and the astrology of June is bringing some sparkling opportunities to manifest love and connection. The chatty vibes of Gemini season put everyone in a flirty mood for the first few weeks of the month, while a special planetary aspect called the Venus cazimi on June 4th kicks off a new cycle in romance. And once the solstice arrives on June 20th, it’s officially time to round up your spring flings and embrace some sizzling summer fun. Gemini May 21st - June 20th Happy birthday season, Gemini! It’s all about you this month, and wit ..read more

While summer doesn’t technically start for another month, we consider Memorial Day its unofficial beginning. And this year, we’re kicking off the season with a collection of some of our favorite articles about summer. 1. Summer date ideas for every zodiac sign This summer, follow your heart (and the stars) and plan the kind of dates that will fit your personality, or your date’s, like a glove. 2. Five things to try in bed when it’s too hot to touch another human Your sex life doesn’t have to stall out just because it’s 80 degrees in your apartment. Here are some sexy workarounds. 3. Ask an exp ..read more

There’s no denying the thrill of being surrounded by friends at a lively brunch or getting together for after-work drinks with colleagues after a long week. But there’s another thrill that can feel just as good—the thrill of closing your front door, locking it, and having a night all to yourself. Don’t believe the anxious voice in your head telling you that turning down plans makes you a bad friend, or that if you say no this time, they may not invite you next time. In fact, prioritizing yourself will help you show up as a better, more present friend when you do hang out. So here’s your guide ..read more