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Wellness > Sex + Relationships

How to Survive No Nut November (Without Exploding)

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at CU Boulder chapter.

Sure, there are tons of great things about November. Thanksgiving break, tons of food, football season, the excuse to be at home with your family, the list goes on. However, there is one part of November that causes everyone who participates a good amount of stress: No Nut November. It’s been a tradition for God knows how long, and if you’re one of the sad souls who’s decided to partake in the challenge, you’re in for a rough 30 days. Whether you’ve got a bet with your friends on who will last the longest or you’re in competition with your significant other, this article will give you all the best tips and tricks to surviving this month without exploding (in more ways than one).

1. Cold Showers

Taking a cold shower is a timeless life hack for curbing your sexual appetites, and there’s solid evidence to back this up. Not only will your body be shocked by the extremely cold water, but it also brings down your body temperature and helps you cool off in even the tensest of moments. If you’re seconds away from quitting, this is a go-to for keeping your head in the game and out of your pants.

2. Exercise

Is there anything that exercise doesn’t cure? If there is, I haven’t heard of it. If you’re having an especially hard time during this lonely month, try going on a run or lifting some weights. It’ll not only keep your mind busy and distracted, but you’ll be too sore and tired to even think about sex.

3. Stress Relief

This can mean many things for many people, but everyone’s got their own favorite form of stress relief that they can’t live without. However, the type that I’m talking about doesn’t include your shower head or favorite vibrator. Try a face mask, a nice hot bubble bath, or some aromatherapy to help you center yourself and keep your cool. Even painting can help keep you calm and collected.

4. Take a Tinder Break

During these trying times, you might be tempted to scroll through Tinder longing for some other sad competitor to slide into your messages. You and I both know this will only make it worse, and we’re not here to make friends. We’re here to win. Delete the app for the month and take the temptation away.

5. Team Up

If you’ve got friends who are also participating this month, team up with them and hold each other accountable. When one person mentions they’re going out on a date tonight, remind them that you guys are in this together and that they’ve got to be strong. Or, if you’re competing and determined to win at all costs, try sabotaging the others. You’re welcome.

Honestly, I have no idea why anyone would participate in No Nut November. Maybe it’s the pride, maybe it’s the spirit of competition, and maybe it’s because it makes December that much more fun. No matter your reasoning for participating, these five tips will help you secure a victory over No Nut November without dying. Godspeed to you all.

Madison Sinsel

CU Boulder '21

Madison is currently a sophomore at CU Boulder, working towards a major in the CMCI school in Strategic Communications on the media design track as well as a minor in fine art. She's been a HerCampus writer since her freshman year, and this year she is also lucky to be an Aerie Ambassador for CU's campus and a Barre3 ambassador for the Boulder studio. At CU Boulder, Madi is focusing on learning graphic design and illustration and has plans to one day become an artistic director and tattoo artist. She's had a love for writing since she was three years old, and is thrilled to be a part of the HerCampus community. Her passions include theatre, matcha lattes, and reading people's tarot cards at parties.