As daylight decreases, the desire to be “tied down” increases. And as the temperature drops, the number of couples rises. Most people feel this way, but not everyone, including myself this fall time. We want to stay in more, snuggle up, binge movies and be around people that make us feel warm, especially when the cold months are approaching. We have a taste of fall and everything that comes with it.
Urban Dictionary defines this term as, “During the Fall and Winter months people who would normally rather be single or promiscuous find themselves along with the rest of the world desiring to be “Cuffed” or tied down by a serious relationship. The cold weather and prolonged indoor activity causes singles to become lonely and desperate to be cuffed.”
Honestly, this term is not only interesting but kind of true. Let’s reminisce about past romantic relationships. Most of us have had that few month-long relationship that seemed convenient. Summer flings are different. I’m talking about relationships during the colder months. Maybe you didn’t even like the person that much, but weirdly enough, it made the months more enjoyable. I bet you’ll think of some friends who were cuffed or did the cuffing during the season. It’s really common (particularly in college). The reason? I think it’s mainly boredom, but colder months can be a very depressing time of the year for most, even more so when there isn’t someone constantly in your life who cares for you on a deeper level and/or is willing to spend time with you. Some say the relationship duration ends after Valentine’s Day.
My advice? Be aware of cuffing season, which is not a part of scientific literature, by the way. According to a VICE article, “Some studies have found that testosterone levels fluctuate seasonally in men, peaking in the winter months. It’s not just our hormones that change at this time of year, though—there are also changes in brain chemicals that regulate mood.” There is also some level of social pressure to meet a partner during these months because of all the holidays and events. An INSIDER article stated, “Considering additional studies that show there is a physiological increase in testosterone and estrogen levels during the winter, we can assume that, biologically, our bodies are programmed to want a mate during this time of year.” Don’t fall in the trap of cuffing season, unless you want a relationship. Consider the big picture because if your goal is to find a long-term partner; you probably won’t find what you’re looking for, since there is often an expiration date. Don’t seek out a relationship just because you feel lonely. The feeling will pass.
Links:
https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Cuffing%20Season
https://greatist.com/connect/cuffing-season#Thats-right:-Its-cuffing-season
https://www.businessinsider.com/reason-for-cuffing-season-winter-relationships-2017-11