February Position of the Month: The Pretzel
By: Katie Mitchell, M.A., LPC, CST
Senior Lead Clinical and Sex Therapist
Maintaining a fulfilling intimate life is an essential part of a healthy relationship. Exploring new positions can be a fun and meaningful way for couples to enhance connection, deepen trust, and discover new sensations together. One unique position that balances closeness, comfort, and novelty is The Pretzel. This side-angled position offers an intimate, intertwined experience that promotes both emotional and physical connection.
Set-Up: The Pretzel is a side-lying position that allows for deep penetration while maintaining close physical contact. The partner being penetrated lies on their side with their bottom leg extended and their top leg bent at the knee. The penetrating partner kneels between their partner's legs, holding onto their bent leg for support and control. This position creates a "twisted" effect (around the penetrating partner), hence the name The Pretzel, while offering an intimate angle that allows for eye contact, touch, and connection.
Benefits:
1. Unique Angles for Enhanced Pleasure: This positioning allows for deep penetration while stimulating different pleasure zones, making it an excellent option for partners looking to explore new sensations.
Intimacy and Closeness: Unlike some rear-entry positions that can feel more physically distanced, The Pretzel allows for close contact. The positioning makes it easy to maintain eye contact, kiss, or hold hands, fostering emotional connection.
Comfort and Support: The semi-reclined nature of the position makes it accessible and comfortable for many body types. The side-laying element provides relaxation while still offering depth and intensity.
Great for Slow and Sensual Connection: This position naturally encourages slower, more intentional movements, allowing partners to savor the experience. It's an excellent option for couples who want to emphasize sensuality and connection over speed.
Encourages Communication and Experimentation: Because The Pretzel is versatile, couples can adjust angles, depth, and rhythm to find what works best for them. This exploration fosters healthy communication and playfulness in the bedroom.
Tips for Success:
Start with Comfort in Mind: Use pillows to support the back or hips if needed. Ensuring both partners are comfortable will enhance the experience.
Adjust Angles for Maximum Pleasure: Depending on flexibility and preference, the partner being penetrated can shift their bent leg's position to alter the angle of penetration. Small adjustments can lead to big differences in sensation.
Engage in Full-Body Touch: This position allows for hands to roam freely, so take advantage of the closeness by incorporating sensual touch, stroking, or caressing to deepen intimacy.
Maintain Connection: Eye contact, verbal affirmations, and gentle movements can enhance emotional intimacy. Since The Pretzel promotes closeness, use it as an opportunity to express affection and appreciation.
Take Your Time: This position is ideal for slower, more sensual experiences. Focus on enjoying the rhythm and the deep connection rather than rushing through the moment.
For couples looking to break our of routine, enhance intimacy, or simply enjoy a new way to connect, The Pretzel offers a perfect blend of novelty and closeness. This is a fantastic position for couples who want to blend deep penetration with comfort and connection. It’s unique angle allows for exciting sensations, while its close-contact nature fosters emotional intimacy. Whether you’re looking to slow things down, try something new, or simply enjoy a different kind of closeness, The Pretzel is a great option to add to your repertoire this February.