How Can I Enhance Our Intimacy with Better Forplay Techniques? - #21293

My partner and I have been together for over 5 years now, and while we have a lot of fun together, I sometimes feel like we’re stuck in a bit of a rut when it comes to forplay. You know, those moments before the big “event” 😉 that really make a difference? I guess it’s like, after so long, we kind of just do the same things repeatedly. It’s not that we don’t care for each other—I mean, we absolutely do! It’s just that I feel like we’ve slipped into a predictable routine with forplay that’s become kind of . . . well, boring? 😂 So here's the thing: last weekend, I decided to experiment a little. Nothing too crazy, just some changes to our forplay routine. I tried lighting some candles and playing soft music, you know, setting the mood. We even tried a little massage beforehand, which I thought might be nice. But honestly, it didn’t feel like enough. I mean, I want us to really connect and explore that side with each other. I was wondering if anyone has any fun tips or creative ideas to spice up our forplay? Every time we talk about it, my partner seems a little hesitant and just kinda laughs it off, which is a bummer! I’ve also read somewhere that communication is key, right? So, I’ve tried to ask more openly about what they enjoy and what could be better, which is harder than it sounds! But even when I ask about forplay, there’s this awkwardness, like they don’t know how to respond. UGH! Sometimes I feel like it’s totally stuck in our heads, and I just want to break that barrier. And, yes, I know this might be about me overthinking things too. It’s hard not to worry about 'what ifs' or how the other person feels. Has anyone else ever felt this way before? Oh, and let me throw this in, I came across this concept called tantric forplay that sounded super intriguing. Have you all heard of it? I’m not sure I totally get it (or how much of it sounds like a lot of work 😂), but it seems like it really emphasizes connection and presence, which could be what we need. Does anyone practice it? What are your thoughts about that? I just want my partner and I to own our intimacy and not feel like we’re drifting apart in something that's supposed to be so wonderful together. It’s such an important part of our relationship, but sometimes I feel like we’re just going through the motions. I mean, how do we keep it alive?! Would love to hear your insights and ideas on this. Thanks in advance, everyone! 💖 P.S. If any of you have tried board games or something silly as part of your forplay routine, I’m super curious about it too!!!