For Him

New sex ed and intimacy classes coming soon!

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At Velvet Box, we pride ourselves on providing incredible sexual education resources for individuals from every generation to grow in intimate connection and learn about their sexuality and needs in a safe, fun, and educational way. That’s why we’re back with new live classes for you, your partner, and others to learn about informative topics from the comfort of your own home.

Our most recent live class, Everything P0rn Didn’t Teach You was a hit, and we’re excited to share that we have more coming your way! Mark your calendars for our informative lineup of classes debuting on the second Tuesday of each month.

Note: Each participant’s name and identity are anonymous when joining the class.

April 12th – Your First Time – Click Here to Register

Nervous about having sex for the first time? You aren’t alone!  Most of us aren’t given a type of sexual education that helps us navigate pleasure and communication in our first sexual experience. Join this webinar to discover what to expect and how to be an advocate for your own pleasure from day one.

In this class, participants will:

1. Explore how to create a sexual ethic that can help you make sexual choices perfectly suited to you.

2. Discover what to expect your first time having sex.

3. Learn about and practice consent. 

May 10th – Raising Sexually Healthy Kids

Many of us want to give our kids more helpful sex education than we received from our parents…but where do you start?  Join our webinar to discover the small but meaningful steps you can take to ensure your kids are gaining the information they need to make healthy sexual choices for themselves. 

In this class, participants will:

1. Explore how your own sexual shame and experiences impact our education to our children. 

2. Discover authentic sexual communication that builds sexually resilient kids.

3. Identify how to discuss sex throughout different childhood ages. 

June 14th – Post-Partum – stay tuned for more information!

July 12th – 5 Sexual Myths – stay tuned for more information!

For the past 12 years, we’ve enjoyed being a part of your journey to intimate connection and sexual growth more than you know, and we look forward to having you with us on this next chapter of education! 

Can’t want to wait for our new courses to become available? Check out our on-demand course catalog with something for everyone.

Everyone deserves great sex, and you deserve to know what works for you. Get brave and come see us at one of our five Dallas-Fort Worth locations. We’re proud to help you.

Building Intimacy through Eye Gazing: An Exercise

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It can often be difficult to feel truly connected during sex. Your mind can wander. Sometimes it feels like a task or chore that we are just checking off the list. You just don’t feel as present as you’d like to. Sound familiar?

According to Sex Therapist Dr. Celeste Holbrook, being present is the key to sensuality. Sensuality is by definition “enjoying your senses.” But you cannot enjoy your senses in the future or in the past. You have to be in the moment. 

Here, Dr. Holbrook has provided a quick exercise to sink into the moment prior to sex with your partner using your sense of vision. It is an eye gazing exercise that helps you direct your most highly relied upon sense (your eyesight) into the present. Note: This is a very intimate activity, so only start with 10 seconds.

Here is how you do it:

  1. Sit down comfortably, facing your partner.
  2. Set the timer. You may choose anywhere from 10 seconds to 10 minutes. Start with a time that feels comfortable but somewhat challenging and work up. The longer, the more powerful the experience.
  3. Gaze into the eyes of your partner. You can blink at any point, it’s not a staring competition.
  4. If you get distracted, simply bring back your awareness to the eyes of your partner.
  5. After the experience is over, grab a piece of paper and draw / write about how you are feeling.
  6. Talk about the experience with your partner…you may want to write down a few things in your journal immediately and talk about the experience later. That is okay. Just be sure to debrief at some point.

A note from Dr. Holbrook

Please know that this can be uncomfortable. If you think about it, we don’t sit and look at each other without the help of words to smooth the depth of the connection. But the important part is that you try. Try connecting in this way, on your bed, clothes on or off, before sex. After you get more comfortable with it, it will feel like a beautiful, intimate reset button. It is grounding, it is connective and it is happy!

You deserve to experience the intimacy you’re longing for, and Velvet Box is proud to provide you with resources to further your journey. For more information on building intimacy with your partner, view our Building Intimacy Checklist.

Everyone deserves great sex, and you deserve to know what works for you. Get brave and come see us at one of our five Dallas-Fort Worth locations. We’re proud to help you.

The Importance of Communication in a Relationship

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For over the past 10 years, Velvet Box has helped thousands of people overcome sexual barriers so they can experience the connection and excitement they deserve and have always wanted. Today, we’re letting you in on sex therapists’ top tips on how to experience the connection and sexual fulfillment you’re looking for in your relationship. Enter: the importance of communication. 

Why is communication important?

Communication is vital for building and sustaining a healthy relationship both in and outside of the bedroom. Lack of communication can lead to a disconnect between partners, even if it’s not obvious right away. Just as we strive to change the narrative around sex and sexual wellness through open dialogue, it’s important that you communicate with your partner (and yourself) about your personal and sexual needs and desires in order to nurture your relationship and avoid discourse now and in the future.

Here, with the help of Dr. Marty Klein’s “8 Ways to Put Sex Therapists Out of Business” article, we answer why having open communication about sex (and everything else!) with your partner is important and advice to get you started. 

Communication closes the gap between questions and answers

Does your partner know how you like to be touched when having sex? Do they know that you need a little extra stimulation to orgasm? Do you know if your partner likes it when you go down on them? In the words of Dr. Klein, “the answer to many, many questions is simply ‘talk to your partner.’ And do it more than once.” Take the time to sit down and talk about these things with your partner outside of the bedroom. Chances are you aren’t the only one who has questions.

To get going, try bringing our Teach Me Your Love Language communication tool to the table. For those who need a little extra help (and that’s quite a lot of us!) to achieve a full orgasm, try adding one (or all) of these into the mix: We Vibe Pivot, Womanizer Premium Eco, Wicked Gel Lubricant.

Communication can lead to more sexual fulfillment

It’s totally normal to feel vulnerable or insecure about your (or your partner’s) desires and fantasies, but as long as everyone is on the same page with safety and consent, there’s no need to. According to Dr. Klein, a “fantasy is a way to ‘experience’ things without any real-world consequences. Thus, fantasy is a library of human sexual imagination. No one fantasizes about things they can easily do in real life.” Of course, your fantasies might seem weird at first – they’re from your imagination! If you have a desire or fantasy that can’t be lived out without the help of your partner, tell them about it and ask them if they have any you can help with, too. Try using our Sexual Interest Inventory communication tool to get started. You might find that you both fantasize about the same things, or create a new, shared fantasy altogether. It takes two to tango! 

When exploring your fantasies or trying new things in the bedroom, remember to always practice Aftercare to ensure both parties involved feel safe, comfortable, and listened to.

Communication can help to overcome sexual setbacks

There are many reasons why penetrative sex may not be an option (erectile dysfunction, painful vagina, or someone just isn’t in the mood). So if you want intercourse but can’t have it, talking to your partner about trying out other options is far healthier for your relationship than just stopping in frustration. In the words of Dr. Klein, “if two people want to have sex, and they can’t do the thing they planned to do, there are plenty of alternatives.” Find out what intimate acts you can do to satisfy each other when penetrative sex isn’t an option. Is it massaging in a certain spot? Find out with our How to Touch Me tool. Is it adding the use of a toy? If so, sit down with your partner and explore all that we have to offer in the For Us category of our online shop. 

So, what have we learned?

Above all else, always keep in mind our favorite phrase: communication is lubrication. And that applies to both in and outside of the bedroom. Communication is the basis of all human interaction, and having an open conversation about sex with your partner should be no different than asking them how their day went. However, we understand that isn’t always that simple. So if you need a little extra confidence to initiate a conversation, our communication tools are tremendously helpful. 

Everyone deserves great sex, and you deserve to know what works for you. Get brave and come see us at one of our five Dallas-Fort Worth locations. We’re proud to help you.

Kegels for All!

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Kegel exercises are an important part of pelvic health. Think of them as going to the gym, but for your pelvis. But, how? Well, with the help of our trusted sex-perts, we’re here to talk to you through all of your Kegel FAQS, including what they are, why they are important, and how to do them.

What are Kegel exercises?

Kegel exercises (or “Kegels”) are simple clench-and-release exercises that you can do 3 to 4 times a day to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. They are named after Dr. Arnold Kegel, an American gynecologist who noted that the pelvic floor muscles were weakened by childbirth. 

Who are Kegel exercises for?

Everyone! Both penis and vulva owners can benefit from Kegel exercises.

Why are Kegel exercises important?

Weak pelvic floor muscles can lead to health issues, such as the inability to control your bladder or bowels, and Kegels help to reduce this issue (and more!). 

By strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, kegel exercises are beneficial for:

  • Reducing urinary and fecal incontinence (from sneezing, coughing, or laughing)
  • Supporting more intense orgasms and ejaculation 
  • Speeding the recovery of the pelvic floor post-pregnancy or surgery

For vulva owners, Kegel exercises can also improve sexual sensation. When the muscles are stronger, more blood flows to the area, improving sensation. For penis owners, they help support erectile function— Kegel exercises make it easier to achieve and maintain an erection.

How to do Kegel exercises for Vulva Owners

  • Start by finding the right muscles. To identify your pelvic floor muscles, stop urination in midstream. If you succeed, you’ve got the right muscles. Imagine your pelvic floor muscles like an elevator rising in your body. Do not push.
  • Once you’ve identified your pelvic floor muscles, lie on your back. 
  • Tighten your pelvic floor muscles and hold the contraction for 5 seconds and then relax for 5 seconds. Try it 4 or 5 times in a row. 
  • Work up to keeping the muscles contracted for 10 seconds at a time, relaxing for 10 seconds between contractions. For best results, focus on tightening only your pelvic floor muscles. Be careful not to flex the muscles in your abdomen, thighs or buttocks, and remember to breathe!

How to do Kegel exercises for Penis Owners

  • Start by finding the right muscles. To identify your pelvic floor muscles, stop urination in midstream. If you succeed, you’ve got the right muscles. 
  • Once you’ve identified your pelvic floor muscles, lie on your back. Tighten your pelvic floor muscles, and hold the contraction for 5 seconds and then relax for 5 seconds. Try it 4 or 5 times in a row. 
  • Work up to keeping the muscles contracted for 10 seconds at a time, relaxing for 10 seconds between contractions. For best results, focus on tightening only your pelvic floor muscles. Be careful not to flex the muscles in your abdomen, thighs or buttocks, and avoid holding your breath. 
  • You can also practice laying a washcloth over your penis and ‘bouncing’ it. Start with a dry cloth and as you work up in strength, you can use a wet one.

How often do I do Kegel exercises?

For both penis and vulva owners, the best practice is to aim for at least 3 sets of 10 repetitions a day. However, you know your body best. Keep in mind that this should be a challenge!

Once you’ve mastered the art of Kegels, you’ll realize that you can do them anytime and anyplace – while relaxing at home or even sitting at your desk.

Important note for all

Don’t make a habit of using Kegel exercises to start and stop your urine stream.  can actually weaken the muscles and lead to incomplete emptying of the bladder, increasing the risk of urinary tract infection.

Resources

Have questions or need more guidance? Stop by one of our five Velvet Box locations to talk to one of our sexual health specialists. Would rather stay home? Watch this video for the best how-to for kegel exercises, which we use in our associate training!

4 Must Have Toys To Make Them Melt This Valentine’s Day

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2020 is here and she is not playing around. There is an abundance of jaw-dropping new and naughty things coming out this year! And we are here to weed through the lot of them and pick out the hottest, most enticing sheet-gripping items that you just shouldn’t miss this Valentine’s Day.

1. We-Vibe Melt

WeVibe Melt Velvet Box DFW Womens Sex Toys

Let’s start off with the toy that has Melt right there in the name. The We-Vibe Melt is the newest air pulse toy from the geniuses over at We-Vibe. And boy does this baby live up to its name. The air pulses gently massage the clitoris, leading to intense pleasure and incredible orgasms. Melt’s pulsating waves and gentle suction surround the clitoris with sensations that range from gentle kisses to stronger suction as you increase the intensity. This baby is also the first air pulse technology toy designed for couples. Melt’s slender, angled shape fits perfectly between you and your partner in any position, with no bulk to get in the way of your pleasure.

2. Svakom Alex

Svakom Alex mens masturbator

Svakom Alex is a incredibly powerful thrusting stroker. Alex has 7 intense auto-thrusting modes for ultimate pleasure. Ultra-soft internal material for a realistic touch. And even comes equipped with 5 immersive scenarios with vocal and scenic sounds.

3. We-Wand by We-Vibe

we-vibe wand velvet box

We-Vibe has used their genius to create yet another phenomenal product. The We-Wand! This is the most advanced and powerful wireless massager on the market. That’s right, with this baby not only do you get a dimmer switch that can take you from zero to blast off with the touch of a button, you don’t have to be tethered to a wall. It also Includes two innovative attachments for different sensations — one fluttery and focused, the other smooth and stroking. AND it is app capable. This is a powerhouse that anyone would be excited to have in their sexy arsenal.

4. Cadenza by Femme Funn

Candenza femme funn

Femme Funn has redefined the meaning of the word power with its incredibly advanced motors that always manage to curl our toes. This is not your average vibrator, this is a thrusting toy that is perfectly curved to hit all the right spots! It has 7 insane thrusting modes that will make you forget your own name. A gift that truly keeps on giving.

Here are some other ideas to really heat up your Valentine’s Day!

For more sneak peeks, tips and tricks and other sexy fun, follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.

7 Insanely Hot Toys To Jingle His Bells

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7 Insanely Hot Toys To Jingle his Bells Velvet Box Fort Worth Texas Lewisville Texas West Plano Texas Adult Store

If you are really looking to really “trim his tree” this holiday season, look no further! These are the toys that all the naughty boys want in their stockings this year.

1. Flip Zero by Tenga

The original Tenga Flip Hole has been one of our hottest sellers since it’s debut. One feel of the super textured sleeve will have his heart racing. Not to mention it’s an ability for him to control the pressure and tightness. Don’t be fooled as these aren’t just for his benefit. The Tenga Zero much like some other male masturbation sleeves can also be used as a stamina trainer to train them to last longer all while feeling incredible! Just make sure to grab him some stimulating water-based lube and don’t forget the powder to keep the sleeve super soft!

2. Ultimate P-Spot Milker by Pipedream

A perfectly shaped tip that moves and rocks back and forth to stroke the prostate is just the tip (no pun intended) of what this toy has to offer. It also has a powerful motor and 9 different vibration functions to really touch give your man that full body orgasm he’s been hoping for. To top it all off it’s rechargeable so no need to buy batteries. This can also be used for g-spot!

Pro Tip: Pair this with any of the Wicked Jelle lubes for a slip like no other.

3. Doggie Style Strap by Sportsheets

Doggie Style Strap by Sportsheets velvet box dfw fort worth texas

Help him hit all the right spots this Christmas season with this awesome accessory. Not only is the Doggie Strap amazing for him but it is amazing for women too! The soft comfortable strap adds pressure to the lower abdomen making you feel tighter and lifting your hips and making that elusive g-spot easier to hit.

4. Vacuum Twist Suckers by CalEx

CalEx Vacuum Twist Nipple Suckers For Men Velvet Box DFW

I know what you’re going to say, “But Grace this is a list for toys for him.”. It is an all too common misconception that only women like their nipples played with. This is categorically untrue! Nipple play is for everyone! These vacuum style nipple stimulators give the feeling of suction that can range from normal to intense with just a little twist.

5. On Power Glide by Sensuva

On Power Glide by Sensuva Available at Velvet Box Fort Worth Texas Lewisville Texas West Plano Texas

The geniuses over at Sensuva have done it again. They have taken On that we women love so much and have made something for the men in our lives. On Power Glide is a cream that, when applied, increases girth, makes him harder and maximizes satisfaction, all by increasing blood flow. A little goes a long way, so stroke a little on and feel the tingle, buzzy, thickening goodness! Perfect for use alone or with a partner.

6. The Magic Wand by Hitachi

What, you thought the Magic Wand was exclusively for women’s pleasure? It’s not! Don’t get us wrong is for that too, but the Cadillac of sex toy has its place in everyone’s collection. Just put this under the head of his penis and turn it on low, slowly work your way to the speed and pattern that makes him twitch.

7. Gun Oil Lube

Gun Oil lubricant for men available at velvet box dfw fort worth texas west plano texas lewisville texas

A lube with a cult following? Yep, that’s Gun Oil. This impossibly slick silicone lube has added Vitamin E and Aloe Vera. It is ultra-concentrated and water resistant so it won’t break down or dry out. While not compatible with silicone sex toys, this is perfect for masturbation or play with glass toys.

Why not wrap yourself for Christmas? Our sexy new lingerie in every size will have his heart racing, palms sweating and pulse quickening. Especially when you pair yourself with any one of the gifts above.

These toys will keep him (and you) pleased and happy all year. So if it’s for Christmas, his birthday, national Steak and Blow Job Day (yep that’s a real thing) or just a Tuesday, treat him to something a little extra sentillating and give him the gift of pleasure.

For more sneak peeks, tips and tricks and other sexy fun, follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.