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Hunkering down -

It’s not just to save on heating bills, even the biggest commitment-phobes are suddenly charmed by the idea of curling up in front of the TV to watch a holiday movie with that special someone. Pubs and clubs be gone, it's time for an early night and a good old-fashioned spooning session!

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Prehistoric survival -

In our evolutionary past, forming relationships during the colder months may have been essential for survival. The long winter nights presented a harsh environment where warmth and protection were crucial. Our ancestors likely sought out companionship to share resources, provide mutual warmth, and be less vulnerable to being attacked by predators.

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Holiday loneliness -

Getting "cuffed," i.e. locking your relationship down, can happen any time of year. However, cuffing season typically starts in October and runs through March, when, if single, the holidays and Valentine’s Day can leave you feeling like a lonely outcast.

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A wintry romance -

According to a survey conducted by EliteSingles, 70% of people are more inclined to look for a long-term partner during the colder months. This seasonal shift in romantic interest prompts a desire for companionship and deeper connection.

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Origins -

The term "cuffing season" first appeared in the Urban Dictionary in 2011, defined as a time during Fall and Winter when people who would normally rather be single find themselves yearning to settle down or to be "cuffed" in a serious relationship.

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Facebook stats -

According to Facebook data, many people update their relationship status to "in a relationship" between October and February. However, come March, a significant number of them change it back to "single," reflecting the cuffing trend.

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How dating apps are cashing in -

Dating apps, such as Bumble and Hinge, have reported that October and November often see a surge in new profiles and messaging activity.

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How dating apps are cashing in -

According to the experts at Tinder, their peak period for dating app activity occurs in January and February, with 11.4 million more messages exchanged globally compared to the rest of the year.

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Swipe right to cuff... -

This surge reflects the increased desire for connection during the colder months, as people look for companionship to get through the winter and into the new year. Singletons looking for love, why not leverage this popular time?!

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The science behind the desire to couple up when cold -

When the temperature drops and days grow shorter, the body’s production of melatonin and serotonin can change, often triggering a shift in mood. The cold, dark nights can increase feelings of loneliness and cause a drop in serotonin levels. 

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Lonely or SAD? -

This shift may explain the connection between cuffing season and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), as many seek out companionship to counteract the negative emotional effects of the colder months.

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Cuffing intentionally -

Gen Z is putting a fresh spin on the cuffing season trend! Traditionally, cuffing season was all about finding a temporary fling to last through the winter, but now the mindset seems to be shifting.

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Something more concrete -

Instead of merely seeking warmth and companionship to fend off loneliness, many are now aiming for relationships that are meaningful, intentional, and potentially long-lasting.

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All I want for Christmas is a boo -

Here are some tips for navigating cuffing season and making the most of this winter romance trend.

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What do I want? -

It’s easy to fall into the trap of wanting a relationship just for the sake of not being alone. But before locking things down, take a moment to assess your intentions.

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Don’t cuff for cuffing’s sake -

Are you truly interested in spending time with this person, or are you just trying to avoid being the lone wolf at your friend’s NYE party? Think about whether this is someone you could realistically see a future with.

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Are they leading you on? -

It’s important to also consider your suitor's intentions—are they genuinely interested in you, or are they sending mixed signals? Be mindful of the "love bomber" type, who showers you with attention only to disappear when they have other options.

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Seeing it through -

Make sure your cuffing season companion is someone who aligns with your values and wants something meaningful, not just someone to fill the void. (Unless you're both on the same, more temporary, page)

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Be clear and set goals -

It’s important to be clear about what you want. Setting goals around the kind of relationship you're seeking can lead to better outcomes and less heartache.

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Be authentic -

Whether you're using dating apps or meeting people through friends, it’s important to be yourself. Authenticity can lead to deeper connections and will make it easier to spot if someone shares your values and goals (ie the real deal). 

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Communicate openly -

If you’re looking for a short-term relationship, be transparent about your intentions. Likewise, if you’re hoping for something more long-term, let the other person know, so you're both on the same page.

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Embrace the season! -

Embrace and enjoy the winter season, with fun activities like ice skating, winter wonderlands, cozy nights in, or cooking meals together. These shared experiences can foster connection and deepen your bond.

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Look out for red flags -

If you’re getting involved with someone during cuffing season, make sure to pay attention to any red flags early on. Since the season is often associated with temporary flings, you’ll want to ensure the person is a solid choice.

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Don't settle -

Does this person respect your boundaries, and are they clear about their intentions? Cuffing season doesn’t mean you should compromise on your standards, or settle for a relationship that doesn’t truly fulfill you. 

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Think beyond February -

Think carefully before committing. Are you genuinely excited to spend time with this person, or are you trying to avoid loneliness at any cost?  Remember, a temporary partner who isn’t right for you can cause more stress than staying single and waiting for a connection that truly matters.

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A Hallmark holiday -

Be mindful of external influences such as romanticized holiday movies or curated social media posts that can amplify the pressure to find a partner during cuffing season. If you're single, remember there's absolutely nothing wrong with that too. 

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Seeing in summer -

Not every relationship that begins during cuffing season is doomed to fail once summer rolls around. While some may be temporary, serving as a way to combat seasonal loneliness or social pressure, others can develop into meaningful, long-term connections.

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Authenticity -

If a relationship starts with a genuine desire for companionship, shared values, and mutual respect, it can thrive beyond the colder months. Like any relationship, the foundation matters more than the timing of when it begins.

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Happy cuffing! -

Whether it leads to a fleeting fling or a lasting relationship, the season serves as a reminder to embrace connections thoughtfully and authentically. Happy hunting!

Sources: (Cleveland Clinic) (The Conversation) (Cosmopolitan) (Refinery29) (Hindustan Times)

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