According to recent research American heterosexual sex lasts only 7.3 minutes on average. What is the rush, people? If we compare sex to dining, Americans are the sexual equivalent of a fast food joint- an In-N-Out, if you will. Sex, like food, is supposed to be savored. It should be a four course meal.

Physical touch is one of the most important aspects of intimate human relationships. A nice warm hug can feel like a refuge at the end of a hard day. A rub on the back from your favorite person can help ease feelings of nervousness.

Nearly half (44%) of people with vulvas have experienced vaginal dryness, leading to painful or uncomfortable sex. When dryness is an issue, a quality lubricant can be a lifesaver. Lubricants are a great way to increase pleasure and comfort during intimacy. But all lubricants are not alike.

Our very first eye-opening experiences of love stay with us forever – whether they are with romantic partners, best friends, our children, or even companions of the four-legged variety. This week, we asked our community: When did the word “love” become real to you?

With COVID-19 keeping many of us away from loved ones, friends, extended family, and even new romantic partners, we have never been so collectively starved for physical touch. But our decline in physical touch didn't start with the pandemic. Experts have reported a decline in hugs for over a decade. We are more apprehensive than ever to embrace and touch the people in our lives for fear that it could be unwanted or misinterpreted, whether that's the workplace, the classroom, or even out with friends.

During times of uncertainty and anxiety, we believe that leaning into your innate capacity for pleasure is healing and sustaining. With that in mind, we want to share our 2020 reader favorites on the best ways to enhance and deepen your capacity for pleasure. We feel confident that this reading list will not disappoint as you explore the most reliable steps to enhance your arousal and find a gateway to orgasm.