Cuffing season explained - real reason we are obsessed with finding winter romance

As the starts to get colder and the nights are darker, it makes it all the more appealing to get cosy under a blanket and watch films - especially when you have someone to do it with.

While may be scary, to some people the thought of getting into a can be even scarier. But it's that time of year where "cuffing season" is upon us.

Say goodbye to Brat summer, where it's all about doing things for yourself; it's the time of year when people are carving pumpkins, sharing a hot chocolate and binge-watching the whole series with their lover. Autumn is in full swing, so why do people feel so pressured to find a winter beau to share it with?

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TV relationship expert and intimacy coach Charlene Douglas shared her thoughts on cuffing season, after a recent survey revealed that almost half of Brits are more likely to couple up in the winter months, with 7% admitting they just want a date for their family Dinner.

While getting 'cuffed' and finding a partner isn't subjective to colder months, people feel the pressure to nail down a relationship (or situationship) when it's colder, with many admitting they feel lonelier when the nights are darker. Others are anxious about heading into the festive season solo.

A study by quizzed single Brits on their thoughts on 'cuffing season', as well as why they want to be with a partner during winter. They found 13% of Brits wanted someone to take along to social events and 24% of people like having someone to do warm and cosy activities with. But why do we need a winter warmer partner?

Expert Charlene explained: "Cuffing season refers to the winter months between October and February where single people seek a partner to enjoy the long, dark, cold nights. A summer filled with socialising with hot men and women at family BBQs, festivals, sunny holidays abroad and so on, is then met with fewer opportunities to meet someone special as the winter months approach.

"The feelings of loneliness for many single people are heightened during colder months, and let's face it - most dating apps are just not cutting it! For some single people, they see a temporary 'winter-warmer' partner as the perfect gap-filler to have a cuddle and some good conversation.

"For others the partners that they choose can quite beautifully develop into something serious, as the'vve spent many nights getting to know one another on a deeper level and building on the emotional and physical intimacy."

However dating is not just for Christmas, as 22% of Brits asked revealed they were looking for a partner to join them on December 25th with the hope it will lead to a serious long-term relationship. However, 5% admit their sights are simply set on a nothing more than a festive fling.

On the reasons why loneliness is such a big factor in our winter dating habits, Charlene said: "Colder months can contribute to some people experiencing SAD (seasonal affective disorder), a condition that can affect a person's mood and energy during the winter months, because of the lack of sunlight.

"The emotional support from a love interest during these times can be just what's needed to help us to feel supported and less alone. A great way to build a strong intimate connection with a partner is by intentionally spending quality time with them.

"Deep conversations, cooking together, playing board games together or even just cuddling up on the sofa watching a romantic movie could be just what you need to feel close to a partner."

Do you have a story to share? Email niamh.kirk@reachplc.com

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