April Position of the Month: The Snake
Written by Katie Mitchell, M.A., LPC, CST
Clinical Director
Certified Sex Therapist
Physical closeness isn’t just about pleasure – it’s also about emotional connection, communication, and vulnerability. One position that invites partners into a space of trust and intimacy is The Snake. With its slow nature and emphasis on skin-to-skin contact, this position is perfect for couples looking to cultivate intimacy and emotional closeness.
Set-Up: In The Snake position, the receiving partner lies face-down, hips slightly raised (a pillow or wedge can be used for support), with legs together or slightly apart. The penetrating partner lies directly on top, aligning their body with their partner’s, creating a full-body, chest-to-back connection. Unlike thrust-heavy positions, The Snake encourages slow, grinding movements that mirror the smooth, coiling energy of a snake. This position is focused on connecting bodies in a deeply pressure way, emphasizing warmth and rhythm over speed or performance. As always communication will be extremely important for this position, as you and your partner will need to clearly communicate what feels good, what is too much pressure, and where to relive body weight by support (looking at you, penetrating partner).
Benefits of The Snake:
Maximizes skin-to-skin intimacy: The Snake creates an opportunity for intense physical closeness. This kind of contact can help trigger the release of oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” fostering emotional security and trust.
Invites a slower, more sensual experience: This position lends itself to slow, rhythmic motion, encouraging partners to stay present and savor the moment. It’s perfect for partners looking to shift away from performance-based sex and move toward more mindful, connected intimacy.
Promotes emotional vulnerability: The closeness that is cultivated between the receiving partner’s and the penetrative-partner’s bodies creates a dynamic that requires trust and emotional openness. When practiced consensually and with care, this position can help partners feel emotionally safe and deeply desired.
Offers gentle, deep penetration: With hips slightly elevated and bodies closely aligned, The Snake allows for deep, but gentle penetration. The pressure is distributed evenly across the body, making it a comfortable option for many couples.
5. Reduces physical strain: The grounded nature of The Snake makes it a great choice for partners who want to avoid joint strain or high-intensity movement. It’s a restful yet powerful way to connect physically and emotionally.
Tips for Success:
Set the mood: Create a calm, sensual experience. Soft lighting, relaxing music, or aromatherapy can help both partners feel relaxed and emotionally available.
Use pillows for support: A small pillow, assisted wedge, or folded blanket under the receiving partner’s hips can create a more comfortable angle and reduce pressure on the lower back.
Focus on breath and rhythm: This position is more about flow than thrusting. Try syncing your breathing and movements to your partners to create a meditative, connected experience.
Incorporate sensual touch: This is a perfect time to engage in slow, intentional touch. The penetrating partner can stroke the receiving partner’s arms, sides, or back to heighten intimacy.
5. Practice aftercare: Because of the emotional vulnerability and intensity involved in The Snake, taking time to cuddle, talk, or simply be present afterward can help reinforce emotional safety and connection.
6. Have lubricant on hand: It is always better to have lubricant that is accessible, than to need it and not have it available, especially with a position that allows for deep penetration.
As a sex and couples’ therapist, I often encourage couples to explore positions that promote presence, regulation, and emotional vulnerability. The Snake is an excellent example of a position that emphasizes comfort and trust. The slow, grounding nature of The Snake can help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and create space for deeper physical connection. It offers couples a way to slow down, tune into each other, and explore intimacy with intention and tenderness. Looking to bring more emotional depth and sensual closeness into your relationship? Try The Snake this April!