Open marriages are becoming more common place in modern society.  As the rate of failure for traditional marriages continues to rise.  Making it a daunting and risky prospect to enter a traditional marriage.  The previous statement is not meant to dissuade those from Monogamous who prefer that path.  However the problem lies when it is considered the only valid path.  Where we are taught anything but a Monogamous relationship is considered wrong, taboo or sin.

So what exactly is an Open marriage?  There is universal answer to that as there are different types of Open Marriages with their own set of rules.  Whereas the concept breaks free from our traditional rules, allowing that to define that for ourselves.  So different arrangements exist between couples.  However the common thread held amongst most Open marriage is the ability to be free to explore other relationship from the couples primary relationship.  While maintaining open and honest communication within the relationship.

Open Marriages stems from a form of Open Relationship in Polyamory.  The word Polyamory in actuality means “Many Loves”.  Highlighting that it is for the purpose of exploring relationships of depth and meaning with many people.  While honoring our sense of humanity which is capable of loving more than one person.

The idea of Open Marriages can seem strange to some people.  As they challenge our current way of thinking and our societal imprints of what is considered normal.  One has to ask oneself when faced with the reaction how much of that is our own personal reaction.  Versus the hard conditioned and possibly brainwashed view where we haven’t even been allowed to explore that possibility.  Open relationships might not be for everyone, however those who choose that path shouldn’t be ostracized for doing so.  Similar to how same sex marriages have and still continue to be rejecting in given parts of the world.

We have to accept that marriage is not what we originally deemed it to be.  Marriage was a function of merging family and property together.  Most marriages were not based on love.  So the idea of marrying for romantic love has been a relatively modern concept  At one point even pre-marital sex would be considered a huge no-no and taboo.  Whereas for most people living a modern secular life this would just be a practical decision.  As understanding the sexual chemistry between two people would be prudent before making a lifelong decision.

So how does one go about exploring an open relationship?  Surrounding yourself with the right community can be key.  As there are a number of Polyamorous groups found in large cities.  Some of these support groups can be found on places like www.meetup.com.  As you will have access to sharing the experience from others who are on the same journey with you.

Next watch some great videos and TV shows / documentaries on the subject.  One great resource is the reality TV show “Polyamory and Dating”.  The show ran the course of 2 seasons and gave an inside look at the world of polyamorous families.

Reading and continuing to understand yourself further are imperative.  Below is a great starting point for various essential books you should read to explore the topic further.

While an open relationship might not be for everyone.  There are other options available other than the extremes of casual dating and traditional marriages.  Which might potentially fullfull our contradictory needs of deep attachments with others along with our need for variety.  Where Polyamory might potentially be an option on that path to self discovery.