Weathering the Cuffing Season Storm: How to Build a Relationship That Will Last After the Snow Melts
Let’s face it. Being single in the summer is easy. Days are longer, the weather is warmer and there are plenty of outdoor activities to participate in! Once the colder weather sets in, you have more time on your hands which increases your urge to find a partner. Who wants to spend snowy afternoons on the couch by themselves?!
The term often used to describe this time of year is known as, “Cuffing Season,” and is loosely defined as a stretch from October to March where those who are typically single strongly desire to be in a relationship.
Though it may sound crazy, there is actually some scientific research backing Cuffing Season. Over the years, Cuffing Season has gained a reputation for breeding short-lived relationships.
Most couples who participate don’t make it long enough to see the leaves are growing back on the trees! However, this does not have to be the case. Like any relationship you want to work on, investing time and effort is essential.
If you want your romance to weather the storm, no pun intended, read on for some tips on how you can get cuffed up and throw away the key this Cuffing Season.
1. Look Past The Physical
Sure, you want your partner to be easy on the eyes, but we all know that shouldn’t be the only quality we look for in a significant other. If you want longevity in a relationship, especially during Cuffing Season, you it’s vital that you really get to know your potential mate.
We’ve all had that date who was super handsome or drop-dead gorgeous but had nothing to offer beyond looks. Avoid this from the get-go and try getting to know someone based on their taste in music or favorite places to travel as opposed to how great they look in their profile picture.
Once you get to know them for who they are rather than basing your attraction on their appearance, you may find yourself falling in love with them for the right reasons. This approach will aid in helping your relationship remain interesting long after the snow has melted!
2. Hold Your Ground
It’s no secret that Cuffing Season is known for quick hookups here and there or casual dating, rather than a monogamous relationship that’s built to last. However, if you set some boundaries from the very beginning and stick to your guns, this stigma can certainly be avoided. Letting your potential partner know how you’re feeling right away may seem overwhelming for both of you, but establishing some ground rules will ensure that you’re both on the same page. Communication is key in a relationship, especially a new one, and you want to start things off on the right foot.
Depending on how this person reacts to said boundaries is a great indication of what kind of partner they’ll be. If they respect you enough to hear you out, then this could be the start of a beautiful relationship. If they choose not to adhere, then you’ll know they weren’t right for you!
The best outcome is them actually having some boundaries of their own they’d like you to stick to as well. If this is the case, it will provide an opportunity for you to discuss how you can both come together to be respectful of one another now and in the future.
3. Feel Good On The Inside
We already established that looks aren’t everything, but a self-care routine encompasses looking and feeling good from the inside out. In order to maintain a relationship, you must be in great physical and mental health.
After all, the most important relationship should be the one we have with ourselves! Because Cuffing Season takes place right as the weather is changing, your health can easily be at risk. The good news is, there are plenty of measures you can take to avoid passing any 
germs along in your newfound relationship!
For example, taking a multivitamin daily, especially one that includes Vitamin C, can help fight off that dreaded winter cold. Viruses tend to thrive better in the colder weather which is why it’s also crucial to focus on your oral health during this time of year.
Once you’re sure you’re free of any sicknesses, and of course you feel comfortable with each other, you may also spend time improving your mental health. Meditation is a great way to relax the mind and body and leave behind the stressors of everyday life.
If you’re both into fitness, consider working out together, as many gyms have the option of a guest pass. This may also drum up some friendly competition between you and your new date leaving some room for a creative prize to whoever comes out on top.
4. Stay True To You
The best piece of advice to remember when dating during Cuffing Season, or any season for that matter is to be yourself. You never want to start a relationship off on false pretenses of any sort as this is oftentimes a recipe for disaster.
Anytime you feel the need to overcompensate should automatically be a red flag that maybe this isn’t the relationship for you. The same goes for your partner. It’s important to express from the beginning that you’re an open book and you expect them to be the same. After all, the best part about meeting someone new is getting to know all the fun and quirky personality traits they possess.
While it’s not always easy, you and your significant other will appreciate one another that much more if you start your relationship out on a tell-all basis. You must both accept the fact that each one of you led a life before the other and everyone has a past. Being open and honest is the key to a long-lasting relationship built on trust.