Swinging — a practice in which people in a couple, by mutual consent, become intimate with other couples or individuals, usually focusing on the physical side.
What it means
Swinging is most often tied to a couple’s shared recreation and does not assume romantic attachment to the other participants. The key conditions are the consent of both partners, rules agreed on in advance and mutual trust. It is one form of ethical non-monogamy, where the emotional bond and priority stay within the main couple. Swinging culture is well developed in many countries: there are themed clubs, parties and communities where people meet in a safe and respectful setting. For many couples it is a way to add variety to their experience together rather than apart, so open conversation about boundaries before, during and after plays an important role.
Example
A couple meets another couple at a themed party and agrees in advance on boundaries comfortable for everyone before spending time together. Afterward they discuss their impressions to make sure both of them felt good.
Related terms
Ethical non-monogamy, Open relationship, Dyad
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