Chris's article

Navigating the intricate dynamics of polyamorous relationships requires thoughtful consideration and open dialogue. Unlike traditional monogamous partnerships, polyamory involves multiple romantic or intimate relationships simultaneously, each with its unique set of expectations and boundaries. To foster healthy, fulfilling, and respectful connections with all partners involved, it's essential to establish clear rules and guidelines from the outset. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deeper into the most important rules you need to discuss in your polyamorous relationship, including consensual agreement, time management, boundaries, open communication, safe intimate practices, and prioritizing people over the relationship itself. Let’s explore these principles in detail to help you build strong, harmonious polyamorous connections.

Understanding the Foundation of Polyamory

Before delving into specific rules, it’s important to understand what polyamory truly entails. Polyamory is the practice of engaging in multiple consensual romantic or intimate relationships simultaneously, with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. It emphasizes honesty, ethical behavior, and respect for all partners, distinguishing it from other forms of non-monogamy that may not prioritize consent or communication as strongly.

The Importance of Setting Rules

Establishing rules in polyamorous relationships is not about restricting freedom but rather about creating a framework that ensures all partners feel secure, respected, and valued. These rules serve as a foundation for mutual understanding and help prevent misunderstandings, jealousy, and conflicts. By discussing and agreeing upon these rules early on, you lay the groundwork for a relationship environment that supports growth, trust, and emotional well-being.

1. Consensual Agreement

The Cornerstone of Polyamory

At the heart of any polyamorous relationship lies consensual agreement. This principle ensures that all parties involved are fully aware of and agree to the non-monogamous nature of the relationship. Consent is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that requires regular check-ins and reaffirmations.

Establishing Mutual Consent

• Open Discussions: Initiate conversations about your desire for polyamory with potential partners. Ensure that everyone understands what polyamory entails and is comfortable with the arrangement.

• Continuous Communication: Consent can evolve over time. Regularly discuss and reassess boundaries and agreements to accommodate any changes in feelings or circumstances.

• Respecting Decisions: Understand that consent can be withdrawn at any time. If a partner becomes uncomfortable with the arrangement, it’s crucial to respect their decision and address their concerns empathetically.

Navigating Different Comfort Levels

Each partner may have varying levels of comfort with polyamory. Some might be open to multiple relationships from the start, while others may need time to adjust. It’s essential to respect each individual's pace and ensure that everyone feels safe and supported throughout the process.

2. Time Management

Balancing Multiple Relationships

Effective time management in polyamory is pivotal in polyamorous relationships to ensure that all partners feel valued and attended to. Balancing multiple relationships requires careful planning and prioritization to prevent feelings of neglect or insecurity.

Strategies for Effective Time Management

• Scheduling Regular Dates: Allocate specific times for each partner to ensure consistent and quality time together. This helps in maintaining strong connections and demonstrates commitment.

• Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity: Focus on making the time spent with each partner meaningful and fulfilling, rather than merely clocking hours.

• Incorporating Solo Time: It's essential to have time for yourself to pursue personal interests, self-development, and relaxation. This balance prevents burnout and promotes individual well-being.

• Utilizing Tools and Calendars: Use digital calendars or planning tools to keep track of commitments and avoid scheduling conflicts.

Addressing Time Conflicts

Conflicts may arise when managing time among multiple partners. Address these conflicts proactively by discussing and negotiating schedules that accommodate everyone’s needs. Flexibility and compromise are key to resolving time-related issues effectively.

Additionally, understanding the type of your poly relationship can help tailor your time management strategies to fit the specific dynamics of your relationships.

3. Boundaries

The Importance of Clear Boundaries

Boundaries define the limits and guidelines that each partner sets to ensure their comfort and respect within the relationship. In polyamory, where multiple dynamics are at play, establishing clear boundaries is crucial to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

Types of Boundaries

• Emotional Boundaries: Define what is acceptable in terms of emotional sharing and support. For instance, some partners may prefer not to share certain personal details with others.

• Physical Boundaries: Set rules regarding physical intimacy with different partners. This includes agreements on public displays of affection, sleeping arrangements, and other physical interactions.

• Time Boundaries: Determine how much time is dedicated to each relationship and how to handle overlapping schedules or commitments.

• Sexual Boundaries: Establish guidelines for sexual activities, including discussions about safe sex practices, exclusivity in certain aspects, and preferences regarding sexual involvement with others.

Negotiating and Respecting Boundaries

• Initial Discussions: Have open and honest conversations about your personal boundaries and encourage your partners to do the same. This creates a foundation of mutual respect and understanding.

• Flexibility and Adaptation: Recognize that boundaries may change over time. Be willing to revisit and adjust them as needed to accommodate the evolving needs of each partner.

• Respecting Limits: It’s imperative to honor each other’s boundaries without judgment or pressure. Respect fosters trust and ensures that all partners feel safe and valued.

Understanding poly attachment styles can further enhance your ability to set and respect boundaries, catering to the emotional needs of each partner.

4. Open Communication

The Lifeblood of Polyamorous Relationships

Open communication is essential in polyamory to navigate the complexities of multiple relationships. It ensures that all partners are on the same page, helps address issues before they escalate, and fosters a culture of honesty and transparency.

Effective Communication Practices

• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule consistent times to discuss the state of your relationships, share feelings, and address any concerns. This proactive approach prevents issues from festering.

• Active Listening: Practice attentive and empathetic listening. Validate each other’s feelings and perspectives without immediately jumping to solutions or judgments.

• Expressing Needs and Desires: Clearly articulate your needs, desires, and expectations. Encourage your partners to do the same to ensure mutual understanding and fulfillment.

• Conflict Resolution: Develop strategies for resolving disagreements constructively. Focus on finding common ground and compromises that respect everyone’s viewpoints.

Addressing Jealousy and Insecurities

Jealousy and insecurities are natural emotions that can arise in polyamorous relationships. Open communication provides a safe space to express these feelings without fear of judgment or backlash.

• Identifying Triggers: Understand what triggers your jealousy or insecurity and communicate these triggers to your partners. This awareness allows for more effective management and support.

• Building Trust: Foster trust through consistent actions, reliability, and transparency. Trust mitigates jealousy and strengthens the emotional bonds between partners.

• Seeking Support: Don’t hesitate to seek external support, such as counseling or support groups, to navigate complex emotions and enhance your communication skills.

5. Safe Intimate Practices

Prioritizing Health and Safety

Polyamory is different vs. open relationships - you don’t engage with partners outside of your network. Nevertheless, the number of partners may change and will generally be higher than for those who are monogamous. Therefore, it is crucial to establish rules regarding safe, intimate practices. Protecting the health and well-being of all partners is paramount to maintaining trust and ensuring long-term relationship stability.

Establishing Safe Sex Guidelines

• Regular Testing: Agree on a schedule for regular sexual health testing and share the results openly with all partners. This practice helps prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and maintains trust.

• Barrier Methods: Use condoms, dental dams, and other barrier methods to reduce the risk of STI transmission during sexual activities.

• Monogamous Safe Zones: Some partners may agree to certain safe zones, areas, or activities where strict adherence to safe sex practices is mandatory.

• Vaccinations: Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine, to further protect against certain infections.

Discussing Intimacy Preferences

Different partners may have varying preferences and comfort levels regarding intimacy. Discuss and respect each other’s preferences to ensure that everyone feels safe and comfortable.

• Consent for Specific Activities: Always seek explicit consent before engaging in specific intimate activities, especially when involving multiple partners.

• Emotional Intimacy: Beyond physical safety, ensure that emotional intimacy is also protected. This includes respecting each other’s emotional boundaries and fostering a supportive environment.

Handling Infidelity

While polyamory emphasizes consensual non-monogamy, infidelity can still occur. Establishing clear guidelines and addressing potential issues proactively can help manage and mitigate the impact of infidelity.

• Defining Infidelity: Clearly define what constitutes infidelity within your relationship. This definition may vary among different polyamorous arrangements.

• Addressing Breaches: Develop a plan for addressing breaches of trust or infidelity, including open communication, seeking counseling, and rebuilding trust through consistent actions.

6. People > Relationship

Prioritizing Individual Well-Being

In polyamorous relationships, it’s essential to recognize that the well-being of each individual is more important than maintaining the relationship itself. This principle ensures that no one feels trapped or compromised at the expense of their happiness and mental health.

Recognizing When to Let Go

Sometimes, despite best efforts, relationships may become unhealthy or unfulfilling. Recognizing when to end a relationship is crucial for the well-being of all parties involved.

• Signs It’s Time to Move On: Persistent unhappiness, unresolved conflicts, lack of mutual respect, or unmet needs may indicate that a relationship is no longer serving its purpose.

• Ending Relationships Respectfully: Approach the end of a relationship with honesty, compassion, and respect. Ensure that all partners feel heard and valued throughout the process.

Supporting Each Other’s Growth

Encourage and support each other’s personal growth and self-development. Celebrate individual achievements and provide a supportive environment for each person to pursue their goals and interests.

• Respecting Autonomy: Allow each partner to maintain their independence and pursue their own interests without undue interference or control.

• Fostering Mutual Support: Create a network of support where all partners can rely on each other for encouragement, advice, and assistance during challenging times.

Balancing Multiple Relationships

While managing multiple relationships, it’s important to ensure that each one receives the attention and care it deserves. This balance prevents any one relationship from overshadowing the others and maintains harmony within the polyamorous network.

• Equitable Attention: Strive to give each partner equitable attention, recognizing that different relationships may require varying levels of involvement at different times.

• Avoiding Favoritism: Ensure that no partner feels consistently overlooked or favored. Address any perceptions of favoritism promptly and transparently.

Additional Rules to Enhance Polyamorous Relationships

While the core rules outlined above provide a strong foundation, there are additional guidelines that can further enhance the health and harmony of your polyamorous relationships.

Transparency and Honesty

• Full Disclosure: Be honest about your other relationships and any changes that may impact your partners. Transparency builds trust and prevents misunderstandings.

• Sharing Intentions: Clearly communicate your intentions and expectations with each partner to ensure alignment and mutual understanding.

Mutual Respect and Equality

• Respecting Differences: Embrace and respect the unique qualities and perspectives each partner brings to the relationship.

• Equal Valuation: Treat all partners with equal importance, avoiding hierarchies that may lead to feelings of inadequacy or favoritism.

Conflict Management

• Proactive Conflict Resolution: Address conflicts early before they escalate. Use conflict as an opportunity for growth and understanding.

• Seeking Mediation: In cases where conflicts become too challenging to resolve independently, consider seeking the help of a mediator or counselor experienced in polyamorous dynamics.

Emotional Support and Empathy

• Providing Support: Offer emotional support to your partners, especially during challenging times. Show empathy and understanding for their feelings and experiences.

• Encouraging Vulnerability: Create a safe space where partners feel comfortable expressing their vulnerabilities without fear of judgment or rejection.

The Takeaway

Embarking on a polyamorous journey is both exciting and complex. Establishing clear and thoughtful rules is essential to navigate the multifaceted dynamics of multiple relationships successfully. The principles of consensual agreement, effective time management, clear boundaries, open communication, safe intimate practices, and prioritizing people over the relationship serve as the bedrock for healthy and fulfilling polyamorous connections.

By discussing and implementing these rules, you and your partners can create a relationship environment that fosters trust, respect, and mutual support. Remember that polyamory is a continuous learning process that requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to adapt. Embrace the journey with an open heart and mind, and enjoy the richness that multiple loving relationships can bring to your life.

Seeking Like-Minded Individuals

If you’re looking to expand your polyamorous network or connect with like-minded individuals who share your relationship values, consider exploring our poly dating app. It’s designed to help you find compatible partners who understand and respect the nuances of polyamory, making it easier to build meaningful and lasting connections.

Embrace the possibilities that polyamory offers, and take proactive steps to ensure that your relationships are built on a foundation of love, trust, and mutual respect. With the right rules and a commitment to open communication, polyamory can enrich your life in countless ways, providing a diverse and supportive network of partners who contribute to your personal growth and happiness.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

What is a primary partner in polyamory? This is the partner with whom you share significant life commitments in a polyamorous relationship. What’s important is that you have a primary partner only in hierarchy polyamory—you could be in a multiple-person relationship without distinguishing between primary, secondary and tertiary partners. In this article, we will look at this in more detail. We invite you to read on.

What Is a Primary Partner in Polyamory?

The term primary partner is used in hierarchical types of polyamorous relationships - those that include an established structure of relationships between partners depending on how strong their bond is. The primary partner is the most important partner, one with the strongest bond and commitment.

What is important is that there might be different types of commitments between primary partners, and there are no established rules regarding what the relationship between them should look like. Below, you’ll find a list of potential commitments, though remember that not all of them need to be met, as it depends on the relationship dynamics.

• Living together (although you can live with a nesting partner without them being your primary!).

• Sharing finances.

• Spending most time together.

• Prioritizing this partner over the others.

• Having kids together.

• Being married.

Does Every Polyamorous Relationship Involve Primary Partners?

Technically, primary partners are reserved for hierarchical poly relationships, ones where there is a clear line drawn between the importance of each partner. However, it’s possible to have a primary partner even in non-hierarchical relationships, though many people are often unaware of having one.

If you prioritize one of your partners in your network, they are likely to be your primary - even if you do this subconsciously. Therefore, although the term is reserved for hierarchical relationships, it can go beyond them.

Primary Partner in Polyamory = Stronger Bond and Relationship

You need to remember that a primary partner in polyamory is someone with whom your bond is stronger than with the others, not someone with whom you share more commitments. Naturally, those commitments mentioned in the first section of this article often match a stronger relationship, but it does not have to be in all cases.

For instance, you can have nesting partners, those with whom you live. They don’t necessarily need to be your primaries, you might live with them out of pure convenience. At the same time, the fact that you have kids with a particular partner does not automatically make them your primary - you can have and raise kids in a polyamorous relationship with multiple partners without growing a stronger bond.

This goes the other way around. You don’t need to live and share finances with your partner for them to be your primary - what matters is your emotional connection. Therefore, while in theory, the concept seems pretty simple, in practice, defining whether a partner in a polyamorous relationship is your primary or not requires a deep insight into yourself, your emotions, and your bond.

The Takeaway

As you can see, the idea of a primary partner is quite complex and often difficult to grasp - unless you live in a clearly defined, hierarchical poly relationship. But, do you even need a primary or secondary partner? It all depends on you - some prefer to have one most important partner, while others might find this concept restricting, so you should choose whatever floats your boat!

Looking for new partners? See our polyamory dating app!

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Managing jealousy and insecurity is one of the most difficult challenges in polyamorous relationships. After all, we’re still human, and these feelings are natural for us. At the same time, the nature of polyamory means that you will possibly “share” your partner with other people. So, how do you cope with these feelings and overcome insecurity? Find it out in this article!

Understand the Feeling of Insecurity in Polyamory

First thing first. To effectively cope with insecurity, you need to understand what causes it in polyamory. Several reasons can cause jealousy in polyamorous relationships, including:

• Unmet needs - Insecurity may be caused when you feel that your partner does not meet your needs. This might be especially problematic if your partner meets the same needs for others in his poly network.

• Sense of inadequacy - Another possible source of insecurity in polyamory is your partner triggering your sense of inadequacy. Mind that it does not mean that they make you feel inadequate, but rather intensify this feeling that you already have. This might be caused by, for instance, comparing yourself to their other partners.

• Fear of abandonment and anxiety - Here, the case is simple—it’s not what your partner does with other people that causes the feeling of insecurity; it’s the pure fact that they could possibly leave you for them.

• Distrust - Whether valid or not, distrust may also lead to insecurity.

To cope with insecurities in your poly relationship, you need to find out what causes them. Only then can you apply adequate measures.

How to Deal with Insecurities in a Poly Relationship?

So, how can you battle your insecurities and embrace compersion in polyamory? We have prepared a few tips that will help you with this. Take a look below.

Talk with Your Partner(s)

The best way to deal with insecurities in a polyamorous relationship is to talk them through with your partner(s) and find a solution together. This is especially true if you have unmet needs and struggle with distrust.

Your conversations should be open; you shouldn’t be afraid to talk about your needs. When it comes to trust, the more you observe your partner react to your concerns and expectations, the more trust you should build. However, remember not to seek reassurance - this won’t help you get rid of the feeling of insecurity. Instead, tackle this feeling at its roots and find ways to eliminate the causes of insecurity and jealousy together!

Self-Help

Sometimes, the reason behind your insecurities is rooted deeply within you (e.g., a sense of inadequacy). In such situations, you need to cope with them yourself.

Self-help resources are a great aid in this process. Books about jealousy and online polyamory resources, like podcasts, videos, or articles, will all prove extremely helpful in dealing with your insecurities. In them, you will find ways to deal with your emotions when they occur, as well as learn about the most common challenges in poly relationships and the best solutions to them.

Engage with the Poly Community

You might also seek help from other poly people in the community. For instance, our “blogs” section offers you a forum where you can ask your questions anonymously and seek answers from others…or read their posts and learn something on your way. You can also make new poly friends using our polyamory app - who knows; perhaps they will turn into your additional partners?

Therapy

Finally, if nothing works, it might be beneficial to speak about your polyamory insecurities with a trained professional. Therapy is nothing to be ashamed of, and it can help you when other measures fail.

The Takeaway

Follow our tips, and you’ll manage your insecurities much more effectively. Remember, your feelings won’t disappear overnight—it will take some time to cope with them, but in the end, you will be in a much happier relationship(s).

You may also read: What Can Polyamory Teach Us About Attachment Styles?

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

The reality TV show "Sister Wives," which debuted on TLC in 2010, has provided an inside look at the lives of the Brown family—Kody Brown and his four wives, Meri, Janelle, Christine, and Robyn. Over the years, viewers have watched as the family's living arrangements have evolved, driven by legal pressures, personal decisions, and the desire for a more private life. As of 2024, here's an updated look at where each of the Sister Wives resides.

A Brief History of the Brown Family's Moves

Initially, the Brown family lived in Lehi, Utah. However, facing potential legal repercussions for practicing polygamy, they relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada, in 2011. In Las Vegas, the family lived in a unique cul-de-sac arrangement, with each wife having her own home. This setup allowed the family to maintain their closeness while providing each wife with her own space.

In 2018, seeking a quieter and more private lifestyle, the Browns moved to Flagstaff, Arizona. They purchased a large piece of land known as Coyote Pass, with plans to build individual homes for each wife and a communal space. However, these plans have faced numerous delays and challenges.

Current Living Arrangements

As of now, the Brown family's living situation is diverse, reflecting the individual journeys and decisions of each member.

Kody and Robyn Brown:

Kody Brown and his fourth wife, Robyn, continue to live in Flagstaff, Arizona. They reside in a spacious five-bedroom, four-bathroom home that they purchased upon moving from Las Vegas. The home, valued at over $1.5 million, is where Kody and Robyn live with their five children: Dayton, Aurora, Breanna, Solomon, and Ariella. Kody and Robyn's relationship remains strong, and they navigate the complexities of their family life together.

Meri Brown:

Meri, Kody's first wife, announced her official separation from Kody in January 2023. Despite the separation, she still resides in Flagstaff, where she rents a home approximately eight miles from Kody and Robyn. Meri spends significant time traveling and managing her bed and breakfast, Lizzie's Heritage Inn, in Parowan, Utah. The historic inn, which Meri restored and named after her grandmother, serves as both a business venture and a personal retreat.

Janelle Brown:

Janelle, Kody's second wife, also lives in Flagstaff. After separating from Kody in mid-2022, Janelle has focused on her financial independence, starting multiple businesses. She lives with her youngest daughter, Savanah, and often visits her other children, who reside on the East Coast. Janelle had plans to build a home on the Coyote Pass property and even considered living in an RV on the land. However, financial constraints and the lack of building permits have delayed these plans, and she continues to rent a home in Flagstaff.

Christine Brown:

Christine, the third wife, was the first to leave the plural marriage, announcing her separation from Kody in November 2021. She moved back to Utah, where she now lives in Murray. Christine purchased a three-bedroom, two-bathroom duplex for $1.1 million, where she resides with her daughter Truely. Christine is actively involved in her new community and has a new relationship, having married David Woolley in October 2023. She also films her TLC-go series, "Cooking with Just Christine," from her home.

The Future of Coyote Pass

The Coyote Pass property in Flagstaff was envisioned as a place where the entire Brown family could live together in separate homes. However, the dream has yet to materialize due to financial difficulties and unresolved personal issues. As of now, there are no building permits for the property, and it remains undeveloped. Janelle remains hopeful about eventually building on the land, but for now, the project is on hold.

The Takeaway

The Brown family has undergone significant changes in their living arrangements over the past few years. Kody and Robyn continue their life together in Flagstaff, while Meri, Janelle, and Christine have sought more independent lives following their separations from Kody. Each of the Sister Wives has found a path that best suits their personal and family needs, marking a new chapter in their ongoing journey. The dream of a united Coyote Pass remains uncertain, but the resilience and adaptability of the Brown family continue to shape their story.

For more detailed updates, you can follow their stories on Sister Wives.

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

What is a nesting partner? This refers to your partner in a polyamorous relationship with whom you live. What’s important is that you don’t have to be married, and you can have more than one nesting partner. It all depends on who you live with and who you are in a relationship with. Do you want to learn more? Then read on!

What Is a Nesting Partner in Polyamory

You have probably heard numerous polyamory-related terms, like compersion or a nesting partner, but didn’t know their meaning. After all, there are quite a few poly-specific phrases and terms used to describe what’s going on in relationships. Don’t worry, though; we’re here to help you – let’s explain what a nesting partner is.

This term is quite general and describes a partner with whom you live. You could use it even in a monogamous relationship; after all, not always do people live together while being together. However, in poly, it becomes slightly more important since you may have several partners but share a household only with particular ones.

The meaning of a nesting partner isn’t restricted to your marital status or the type of relationship – it refers to any partner with whom you have a sexual or romantic relationship and with whom you live. It’s also not restricted by numbers – you can have several nesting partners if you’re poly!

How Nesting Partners Work?

Let’s get a bit deeper into the topic of nesting partners. How does this work? Here are the key information:

• Nesting partners can be both secondary and primary partners – the status does not matter.

• Nesting partners might bring up kids together.

• Nesting partners are in a relationship – the fact that you have, for instance, been intimate with your roommate does not make them your nesting partner.

What Are the Benefits of Having Multiple Nesting Partners in a Poly Relationship?

Having several nesting partners might seem like a challenge, but it’s also a great opportunity – this has quite a few advantages. What are they? Take a look below.

Living in a Poly Family

First, we need to look at the benefits of polyamory families in general since this is exactly what you create when having multiple nesting partners. These include:

• emotional fulfillment,

• shared parenting responsibilities,

• diverse perspectives that broaden the horizons.

Financial Stability

Living with more people is often more affordable than doing so on your own or with just one partner. Thus, opting for a nesting partner(s) often comes with more financial stability and a higher disposable income for you to spend on your dates, hobbies, etc..

Is Having a Polyamorous Nesting Partner for You? Potential Challenges

Nesting partners are great, but this kind of relationship might also have its downsides. Hence, do determine whether a nesting partner is for you, let’s look at the potential drawbacks of this option.

Setting Boundaries

If you are both poly, you might also date other people, and there’s nothing wrong with that… until your shared spaces come into play. You might be okay with your partner’s dates in your house, but you might also be completely against it, and so might your nesting partner. This might create conflicts regarding the boundaries that you want to set.

More Dynamic Household

With more people in your household, there is more potential for conflicts regarding your daily lives. Whether someone does not clean up after themselves or plays their music loudly, it might be difficult to come up with a compromise, especially since they aren’t just your roomies – they’re your partners whom you care about.

The Takeaway

As you can see, nesting partners have their benefits, but there are also some obstacles that you’ll need to overcome. The key is proper communication – with it, you’ll surely make a great family with those you care most about.

Are you looking for new partners? Check out our poly dating app!

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Ambiamory is yet another poly term, the meaning of which we need to explain. In general, it refers to people who are comfortable with both being polygamous and monogamous. In this article, we shall look at this more closely. We invite you to read on.

What Is Ambiamory? Definition and Meaning

What is the definition of ambiamory? It’s the ability to be equally content with both a polyamorous and a monogamous relationship. It is believed to be a spectrum between these two orientations.

People who are ambiamorous create long-lasting, meaningful relationships, no matter whether mono or poly. What is more, they are equally happy in either of the settings, making the most of their time. Thus, in simple terms, ambiamory does not mean that you strive for both, but rather that you can adjust and be happy in both scenarios.

What Is the History of Ambiamory?

We don’t know exactly when the term was coined and emerged; however, we are able to point out when it was most popular. According to Google Trends, “ambiamory” was most commonly searched for in 2019 and since the middle of 2022, which corresponds to the overall poly boom.

This might have its roots in the way people use the adjective polyamorous when dating. For example, if you find a profile on a poly dating site with “ambiamorous” written in it, the person actually wants to show you that they are open to both options. However, is somebody like this truly ambiamorous? Not always – it might be so that such a person will prefer one of the options in the long run and that it only seems to them that they are fully comfortable with both, so take such profiles with a pinch of salt.

The Challenges of Being Ambiamorous

While being ambiamorous might seem great – you can have either of the worlds – there are some challenges associated with it. What are they in particular?

Firstly, returning to the example from the previous section, since not all people who claim to be ambiamorous truly are ambiamorous, poly and mono people might simply… not trust them. For such potential partners, it always feels like a risk, which later builds mistrust and communication issues and causes conflicts. Hence, being 100% honest with ambiamory might often cause a backlash.

Secondly, ambiamorous people are often perceived as cheaters (which is a hurtful myth). Many people believe that truly ambiamorous partners will seek both worlds and, in the end, will build a seemingly mono relationship while sleeping with other partners.

The Truth About Ambiamory

What is the truth about ambiamory regarding the above challenges and myths? It equals flexibility. It’s not monogamy nor polygamy; it’s a completely separate relationship style that lets the person easily adjust to the dynamics of their partner(s). Hence, despite what the popular opinions lead to say, it’s nothing bad – quite the opposite, it opens up new dating opportunities.

The Takeaway

We hope that we have explained the meaning of ambiamory to you thoroughly enough that you understand this concept now. After all, it’s quite important since it proves that there are spectrums between monogamy and polyamory and that these two are not fully contradictory. In the end, it’s important to note that many poly people might actually be ambi; just think about yourself – did the fact that you tried going poly cause you not to want a monogamous relationship ever again, or would you consider it and feel comfortable if it was with the right person?

You might also read: Know Your Poly Terms and Conditions

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

How many seasons of Sister Wives are there? 18 in total. Despite its bumpy road and a short hiatus, the TV series has been aired since 2010, with the latest season dropping in 2023. In this article, we will take a closer look at all of the seasons and answer all your questions regarding the series. Did we spark your attention? Then read on!

How Many Seasons of Sister Wives Aired Already?

Sister Wives has had a bumpy road ever since its release in 2010. While it gained a lot of popularity ever since, we must not forget the 2018 hiatus, when there were even rumors about the end of the series. Thankfully, this was all fake news, and TLC did not cancel Sister Wives, though we must admit that even we here were tricked by the fake information, at least at the start. So, how many Sister Wives seasons have been aired already?

The answer is eighteen. However, we are waiting with high anticipation for the nineteenth season, which, according to IMDb, has been confirmed by Christine Brown. When will it be aired? Rumor has it that sometime by the end of 2024. However, this remains to be seen.

There’s also one more question about the show's 19th season – how will it tackle the death of its main characters? Garrison Brown passed away this year (2024), and we don’t know whether this topic will be tackled in the series or marginalized.

Preparing for Season 19 – Let’s Recap The Past Few Seasons

Knowing how many seasons of Sister Wives there are, you might probably feel overwhelmed with the amount of material and find it difficult to remember everything. Don’t worry – here’s a brief recap of the last two seasons to prepare you for the upcoming premier.

Season 17

This season is marked by significant tension and emotional upheavals, especially surrounding Christine's decision to break up with Kody and the family. Her departure marks a pivotal moment in the series, highlighting the strains within the relationships and the differing perspectives on family and loyalty.

Kody grapples with the fallout from Christine's departure, expressing feelings of betrayal and reflecting on the implications for the family's unity. Meanwhile, the varying reactions of the other wives are shown: 

• Janelle supports Christine's decision and struggles with her own relationship with Kody.

• Meri tries to find her place within the family dynamics despite her long-standing issues with Kody. 

• Robyn, often seen as Kody's favorite, feels the pressure of maintaining the family's cohesion.

The children also play a significant role this season, with many of them voicing their opinions on the separation and its impact on their lives. The older children, in particular, provide insight into how the family’s lifestyle has affected them growing up. The season concludes with the Browns attempting to find a new normal amidst the ongoing changes, setting the stage for further developments in their relationships and individual paths.

Season 18

This season continues to explore the aftermath of Christine's departure and its ripple effects throughout the Brown family. Kody's relationships with his remaining wives face unprecedented challenges as they each reassess their roles and connections within the family. Janelle's and Kody's relationship becomes increasingly strained, leading to frank discussions about their future together.

Robyn finds herself increasingly isolated, feeling the pressure to hold the family together while dealing with her own fears and insecurities. Meri continues to struggle with her place in the family, facing the reality of her distant relationship with Kody and the other wives. The season also highlights the wives' individual pursuits and how they balance these with their family responsibilities.

The children again provide a critical perspective, with some expressing relief over the changes while others struggle to cope. The season includes significant milestones and personal achievements, such as new business ventures, educational pursuits, and personal growth journeys, offering a comprehensive look at how each family member is adapting to the new family structure.

The Takeaway

How many seasons of Sister Wives are there? 18, though a 19th season is on its way. We can expect a lot of things happening in the lives of the Brown family, so we can’t wait to see the next season, which should be aired sometime by the end of this year!

Don’t know what to do while waiting for the new season? Read some books about polyamory!

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

What is the TLC show Sister Wives about? It’s a reality series about the Brown family, with Kody Brown being the main character. Kody is a polygamist, living with his wives and 18 children in Utah. The TV series is focused on their lives and struggles in the polygamic setting, with most attention paid to Kody’s ties to his current and past wives. Do you want to learn more? Then keep reading!

What Is TLC Show Sister Wives About?

Sister Wives is a popular show on TLC that first aired in 2010 and has been actively shot ever since. How many Sister Wives episodes are there now? Currently, eighteen. The number of seasons of the show is the perfect proof of how good this series is and how many fans it has gathered, and the general poly boom in 2018 is yet another, probably caused (at least partially) by this exact show. So, what is Sister Wives about?

The show depicts the lives of Kody Brown, his current wives, and eighteen of their children. The family lives in Utah, and the TV series deeply explores their relationship. It does not only focus on the links between Kody and his current (and past) wives but also on the children and how they are affected by the poly lifestyle.

We need to mention here that it’s reality TV, meaning that the situations in the show are unscripted, though naturally, the show is edited. Moreover, over the course of the 14 years that the show aired, there have been a lot of changes to the family. We could show you the most important timeline, but we won’t since we don’t want to spoil the series for you if you’re just about to start it.

Sister Wives – More Than Just Entertainment

Knowing what Sister Wives is about, you can clearly see that it’s more than just entertainment – it’s a valuable example of polygamy in real life. Naturally, each person will be different, and the challenges that the Brown family faces might not be exactly the same as the obstacles that you’ll need to overcome in your poly relationships. Still, it’s good to watch the series just to see what potential problems might occur in your relationship.

This is especially true about the latest seasons, where we could see the reactions of each of Kody’s wives to a major event (we won’t tell you what event – no spoilers here!) and how their relationship with the whole family differs. Hence, don’t treat Sister Wives as your primary polyamory resource, but do treat it as one.

Engage Yourself in Sister Wives

Naturally, as a long-running TV series, Sister Wives is extremely engaging – you will find yourself on the edge of your seat, waiting for the next episode to find out what has happened. Currently, there is a lot going on in the family, both regarding the last season and what is in store for season 19, so no matter whether you are poly or not, we strongly recommend it.

When will the next season be? It will probably be sometime by the end of 2024. This means that you still have a couple of months to catch up and binge-watch the previous seasons.

The Takeaway

Knowing what the TLC show Sister Wives is about, you should absolutely watch it. We guarantee you that it will be both entertaining and educational, so do not hesitate!

And if you’re looking for opportunities to meet new people and extend your poly network, check out our polyamory dating app!

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

Polyamory makes it a bit more tricky to fulfill the communication and emotional needs of each partner since more people are involved. Yet, with openness and honesty, clear boundaries, active listening, and compersion you can make sure that every partner’s needs are met and that everybody feels comfortable in your relationship. Find out more!

Meeting Communication and Emotional Needs in Polyamory: Openness and Honesty

The first step towards ensuring that your and your partners’ emotional needs are fulfilled is being open and honest with each other. Like in monogamous relationships, this builds trust, so important when more than one partner is involved.

Don’t conceal your feelings; be open about them, but also listen to what your partners say, and don’t take their words for granted. Even if their emotions might seem unreasonable for you, you cannot change how someone else feels, so being honest and finding solutions together is the only way to ensure that you all feel comfortable in your relationship.

Boundaries – The Cornerstone of Any Relationship

Whether you have one partner, two partners, or even ten, you need to set clear boundaries in your relationship. Why does it matter?

Boundaries in polyamory help build trust but also ensure that everybody feels comfortable. If you and all your partners state what works for each of you and what does not, it will be easier to meet every person’s emotional needs in your poly relationship, thus making everybody happier.

Boundaries are also an opportunity to compromise. When setting them, it might occur to you that your partner’s and your needs are slightly contrary to each other. As a result, you can come up with the middle ground right away.

Active Listening and Its Impact on Meeting Communication Needs in Polyamory

Good communication and meeting one’s emotional needs in polyamory requires active listening. But what does it mean in practice?

This term refers to listening attentively, understanding what your partner is saying, responding to them and reflecting on their thoughts and feelings, and finally remembering the information for longer. Some good practices regarding it involve:

• paying full attention to your partner (e.g., by putting your phone away),

• maintaining eye contact,

• noticing body language and facial expressions,

• paraphrasing what your partner said and reflecting on it,

• focusing on understanding what your partner is saying rather than responding to them.

Compersion – A Way to Battle Jealousy and Improve Communication

Jealousy is one of the main blockers in relationships. At the same time, it’s natural that we feel it from time to time. Therefore, you need to put conscious effort into getting rid of this emotion, as doing so is crucial to meeting communicating needs in polyamory. How to do this?

You should embrace compersion in polyamory. In a nutshell, this means deriving joy from your partners’ happiness. It helps you turn situations that would naturally cause negative feelings into positive ones. This might be a bit difficult at the beginning since it requires you to look into yourself, understand your emotions, reason through them, and work on your empathy. But in the end, it’ll pay off in a much healthier relationship, with you being more sensitive to other partners’ emotional needs and meeting them.

The Takeaway

Follow our tips, and you’ll find it easier to meet everyone’s needs in your polyamorous relationship. And if you’re looking to grow your network, be sure to check our poly dating app – a great place to meet more like-minded people.

You might also read: Poly Love and Money

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc

How to create trust in a polyamorous relationship? Embrace compersion, make sure that your partners’ emotional needs are met, be honest, set boundaries and support them emotionally. Do you want to find out more? Then keep reading!

How to Create Trust in a Polyamorous Relationship? 5 Tips

Rebuilding broken trust in polyamory is always hard. Thus, you should prevent this from happening, and create trust from the very start of your relationship. How to do this? Here are our 5 tips.

Compersion

To build trust in a relationship you need to show your trust first. That’s why you need compersion – the feeling of happines when something positive happens to your partners.

It’s normal for people to feel jealous, but if you let these emotions consume you, it will feel as if you do not trust your partners. As a result, they won’t trust you either. Therefore, you need to start with compersion in polyamory relationships.

Meeting Your Partners’ Emotional Needs

Compersion is helpful also in other steps on our list, one of which is meeting your partners’ emotional needs. If you respect the feelings of your significant others, and care to fulfill them, this will automatically build trust in your polyamorous relationship.

Why is it important? Focusing on emotional needs in polyamory shows your partners that you are dedicated to them, that you put your relationship as one of your main priorities. Seeing signs that you want the best for them, they will understand that you have good intentions, hence building trust more quickly.

Being Honest

If you conceal your feelings or any information from your partner, you won’t build trust – sooner or later, they will uncover your secrets, which might make them feel disappointed with the fact that you don’t trust them enough or even cause them to lose trust to you. Thus, one of the most important tips regarding polyamory and trust that we have to you is: be honest.

Even if you are ashamed of something, you made a stupid mistake, or don’t want to put a lot of emotional baggage on your partners, don’t lie and be open. Your partners are there to help you, so you shouldn’t be afraid of being honest with them.

Set Boundaries

How to create trust in a polyamorous relationship? You need to set clear boundaries and respect them. Like in the case of emotional needs, this will show your partners that your intentions are good – if you put their boundaries first, despite some of them being unnatural for you, you’ll be able to show how much you care about your partners, hence evoke trust.

After all, one significant part of trust is feeling comfortable with the other person, no matter what happens or what you tell them – setting and keeping to the boundaries helps with that.

Emotional Support

Another key element of trust is knowing that you can count on the other person. Therefore, you ought to show yout partners that it’s so with you.

Did something unpleasant happen to one of your partners? Comfort them. Are they going to have a really stressful day? Make them a breakfast or give them a small gift. Even small gestures will do, it’s the timing that really matters – you will build trust in polyamory by simply being there for your partners when they truly need you.

The Takeaway

Building trust is easier than rebuilding broken trust, especially in polyamory. Therefore, follow our tips and avoid making mistakes that could cause your partners to lose trust. It’s the cornerstone of any relationship, so don’t overlook it!

Do you feel that you need some support in your freshly new relationship? Here are 5 polygamy quotes to inspire you!

Published By: Sister Wives 

Matchmakers Inc