Relationships-whether they last for a week or a lifetime-are one of the most exciting parts of being A Real Adult. They're fun! They're exciting! And a lot of the time, they involve steamy sex and personal rendezvous. But from very first times to

Very simply, marriage and sex therapist Adrienne Michelle describes a relationship as a connection to a person you continue to engage with. Naturally, these connections can range from casual to intimate, platonic to romantic. And ideally, these connections provide a healthy balance of give-and-take, support, security, care, and growth, adds ily therapist Katie Miles.

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Unfortunately, that isn't the case with every connection, which is often how toxic relationships come to be. A suit matchmaking is the one that's the right fit for you, both with the nature of the relationship and the person(s) you're in a relationship with, Miles explains.

And while a thriving, healthy relationship is the goal for many, if you've been in the relationship game for literally any amount of time, you're probably aware that no two connections are the same. Different types of relationships tend to come with distinct expectations, rules, and standards of engagement, explains Miles. And it's important for each person's well-being and sense of security to know what [the relationship] is.

That's why both experts agree: Determining the connection is key. In fact, Michelle says the only way a relationship can really thrive is if you're on the same page regarding your wants and needs. Also! Since relationships are always evolving, it's a good idea to continue checking in as you move forward-being on the same page now doesn't mean you will be a year from nowmunication, folks! It's a must.

Whether you're racking your brains on what your location is which have a great that special someone or simply just casually mapping from the rest of your existence (NBD!), we have found a review of a dozen types of romantic dating you could has, anywhere between supes relaxed to lifelong partnership.

step one. Flirty Family

Lively intimacy + limitations = flirty relationships, demonstrates to you Kilometers. Essentially, that is a friendship who may have a great commonly they, won't they function. This type of matchmaking are typically on an ego improve and you can adventure without the actual risk otherwise connection. There can be a destination under people amicable vibes, and it also generally comes with from type body language and flirtatious words in order to romantic thoughts and feelings, Michelle says.

While, yes, flirting is enjoyable and these types of relationships are great if you just want the ego boost, Miles says because relationships can (and do) evolve, this has the potential to be the start of something much bigger. Granted, that means someone would have to consensually break the boundary, but the friends-to-people trope is famous in shows, movies, and books for a reason, folks!

2. Loved ones That have Masters

Sometimes when flirty friendships are taken to the next level without commitment or expectations, they turn into more. Enter: wife Bagheria sex friends or nearest and dearest having advantages (FWB). Essentially, you're pals in every sense, except the sexual boundaries are gone and you hook up either occasionally or regularly. There's an agreement that you enjoy each other's company and the function is physical, adventurous, casual, and fun, Miles explains.

That said, Michelle notes that these relationships can get tricky because there *could* be an emotional component involved that isn't talked about. It's crucial both parties consent to just being casual, intimate friends, she says. Also, FWIW: Miles suggests having a rule about practicing safe sex in case other partners are involved, so be sure to grab certain condoms before meeting up with your FWB.