Why are we more faithful in autumn?

Hear ye, hear ye, my little swirling leaves

Autumn is not merely a transition between summer and winter. It is a season in its own right (if not the most beautiful), one that influences our moods, our desires, and even our romantic behaviour. As the days shorten and the chill sets in, our need for warmth, stability, and deep connection intensifies. An exploration of the reasons why autumn could well be the number one season for fidelity.

The turn inward, aka "Hygge" and the need for a cocoon

As temperatures drop and the grey sets in, our social energy tends to diminish. Gone are the terrace drinks and the endless nights out. Autumn invites us to retreat, to create a cosy cocoon where it feels good to take shelter.

• The "Hygge" philosophy: This trend from Denmark, which champions simple, warm-hearted happiness (candles, hot drinks, a cosy atmosphere), finds its full meaning in autumn. We naturally want to share these gentle, intimate moments with our partner, thus strengthening the bond and the sense of emotional security.

• Comfort for two: Snuggling under a blanket to watch a film, preparing a good meal together, reading side by side... These little nothings create a unique bond and make the temptation of elsewhere far less appealing.

The biochemistry of love

Our bodies react directly to the change of season, and this directly influences our emotions and our libido.

• The effect of melatonin : As the days shorten, our production of melatonin (the sleep hormone) increases. This can lead to a general drop in energy, but also a search for comfort. We are less in the "adventure" mindset and more in the "cosy, comforting cuddle" mode.

• The role of oxytocin: Also known as the "love hormone" or the bonding hormone, oxytocin is secreted during cuddles, sexual intercourse, and moments of tenderness. In autumn, by seeking more physical closeness, we naturally stimulate our oxytocin production, which strengthens the feeling of attachment and fidelity towards our partner.

The question of rhythm: back to school and the search for stability

September rhymes with back to school, and often with the return of a more structured routine (work, school, etc.). After the excitement of summer, this period is often synonymous with a return to routine and the search for balance.

• Stability first: In this context, the romantic relationship becomes a reassuring pillar. We are less focused on escapism and new encounters, and more on building and consolidating what we already have.

• Duo projects: Autumn is a time conducive to planning ahead: preparing for the festive season, planning a romantic weekend away, starting a new shared project. Looking towards the future together is a puissante expression of commitment.

The aesthetics of the ephemeral and romance

There is something deeply romantic about autumn. The melancholy beauty of the landscapes, the blazing colours, the ephemeral quality of this magic... This atmosphere makes us more sensitive, more nostalgic, and more inclined to celebrate the beauty of a love that lasts.

• Romantic inspiration: Woodland walks to admire the fallen leaves, hands warming each other... Autumn offers us a ready-made setting for intimate moments that bring relationships back together and rekindle the flame, without needing to look for it elsewhere.

Autumn, far from being a sad season, is in reality a wonderful time to nurture and celebrate your relationship. By encouraging us to turn inward, by influencing our internal chemistry and pushing us towards stability, it creates the perfect conditions for fidelity to flourish. It is the season when we take care of what truly matters: the warmth of a home, the complicity of a glance, and the gentleness of arms that welcome us, evening after evening...