Ever wonder how people across the globe spice up their intimate moments? From ancient rituals to unique customs, different cultures have their own ways of making pleasure a priority. We’ve rounded up eight fascinating practices that offer fresh ideas for connection and enjoyment. No need to pack a suitcase—just read on for practical tips to bring a world of inspiration to your bedroom.

Tantra in India: Slow Down, Feel More

What’s the vibe? In India, tantra turns intimacy into a soulful experience, blending body and mind for deeper connection. It’s less about speed and more about savoring every moment.

How it works: Couples sit close, syncing breaths while gazing into each other’s eyes. Slow, deliberate touches build energy over time. Think of it as meditation with a sensual twist—positions like sitting face-to-face, legs entwined, keep things connected without rushing to the finish line.

Try this: Start your next date night with five minutes of synchronized breathing. Inhale together, exhale together, hands on each other’s hearts. It’s a simple way to feel closer and make every touch more intense. Fans of tantra say it strengthens bonds and ramps up sensation.

Taoist Secrets from China: Last Longer, Love Better

What’s the vibe? Ancient Chinese Taoists saw sex as a way to balance energy, or chi, for health and pleasure. It’s about pacing yourself for longer, more satisfying sessions.

How it works: Techniques like deep belly breathing and pelvic floor exercises (think Kegels for both partners) help control arousal. Men might practice delaying release, while women focus on circulating energy through mindful breaths. Slow, deep movements in sync keep the flow going.

Try this: During intimacy, take slow, deep breaths into your lower belly. Exhale gradually to extend the moment. It’s a game-changer for stamina and can leave you both feeling energized. Many who try it report a boost in vitality and connection.

Karezza: The Art of Lingering Love

What’s the vibe? Born in the 19th century, karezza is all about cozy, affectionate intimacy without the race to climax. It’s like a long, warm hug that evolves into something more.

How it works: Partners focus on gentle caresses, soft words, and subtle movements. Think light massages or whispering sweet nothings while staying physically close. The goal is a steady hum of pleasure that can last for hours.

Try this: Next lazy Sunday, spend 20 minutes just touching—stroking arms, backs, or faces—without pushing for more. It’s a low-pressure way to rediscover each other. Couples often find it builds trust and keeps things fresh.

Japanese Kinbaku: Rope Play with a Purpose

What’s the vibe? Kinbaku, or shibari, is Japan’s art of erotic rope tying. It’s not just about restraint—it’s a sensual dance of trust and aesthetics.

How it works: Partners use soft ropes to create intricate patterns, pressing on pressure points to heighten sensitivity. The process is collaborative, with constant check-ins to ensure comfort. Even simple wrist ties can amplify anticipation and sensation.

Try this: Grab some soft rope or a scarf and experiment with a basic wrist tie. Talk through every step to keep it safe and fun. It’s a way to explore boundaries and spark excitement through restraint. Many say it deepens emotional connection.

Hawaiian Lomi Lomi: Ocean-Inspired Touch

What’s the vibe? Lomi lomi, a Hawaiian massage style, uses flowing, wave-like strokes to relax and awaken the body. It’s sensual without being overtly sexual, perfect for intimate settings.

How it works: The giver uses forearms and hands with oil for long, rhythmic glides across the body. It’s about creating a sense of flow, mimicking nature’s rhythms. The result? A relaxed, receptive state that enhances closeness.

Try this: Incorporate wave-like strokes into foreplay—use your hands to glide smoothly over your partner’s back or legs. It’s a stress-melter that sets the stage for deeper intimacy. People love how it makes them feel open and connected.

Mosuo Walking Marriages: Freedom in Connection

What’s the vibe? In China’s Yunnan region, the Mosuo practice “walking marriages,” where women invite partners for the night without long-term ties. It’s about flexibility and keeping things light.

How it works: Women have private rooms; men visit and leave by morning. Relationships can be one-night or lifelong, with no pressure to cohabitate. It prioritizes quality time over obligation.

Try this: If you’re in a non-traditional setup, try carving out dedicated nights for intimacy without merging lives. It can keep things exciting and pressure-free. This approach shows how space can fuel desire.

Mangaia’s Open Lessons: Focus on Mutual Joy

What’s the vibe? On Mangaia Island in the Cook Islands, pleasure is a community-taught skill, with a focus on ensuring both partners—especially women—find fulfillment.

How it works: Elders share tips on extended foreplay and specific techniques to maximize satisfaction. It’s about learning through practice and prioritizing your partner’s needs.

Try this: Spend extra time on foreplay, asking your partner what feels good. Experiment with touches or positions that build arousal slowly. Open communication, like Mangaia’s, can lead to more balanced, joyful moments.

Kreung Love Huts: Private Spaces for Discovery

What’s the vibe? Cambodia’s Kreung tribe builds small huts for daughters to explore relationships privately. It’s a practical way to test compatibility without strings.

How it works: Young women invite partners to their huts, spending time together to see what clicks. The focus is on honest, unpressured connection.

Try this: Create a distraction-free zone at home—a bedroom with no phones—for uninterrupted time together. It’s a simple way to focus on what feels right. This setup encourages exploration at your own pace.

Make It Your Own

These global practices show there’s no single path to pleasure. Whether it’s tantra’s slow build, karezza’s gentle touch, or the Mosuo’s free-spirited approach, you can mix and match ideas to fit your vibe. Start small—try a breathing exercise or a new kind of touch—and see what sparks joy. The key is open communication and a willingness to experiment. What’s your next move?