What is ‘snowmanning’ in dating? Experts warn against the viral winter dating trend |
Winter is one of the best seasons in the world for many. The festive lights, celebratory occasions and time on hand, make a person want to cosy up under layers of blankets with a person by their side. This feeling gives rise to the search for a partner and thus numerous dating trends. While some can lead to love others are meant for a limited time and do more harm than good. One such viral dating trend in the winter season is ‘snowmanning’ and now experts are warning people against it. According to Devyn Simone, Tinder’s relationship expert, the trend is like a combination between love-bombing and ghosting, only with a ‘seasonal expiration date’.
What is ‘snowmanning’?
‘Snowmanning’ is a winter dating trend that involves rushing into a relationship, especially during the winter season and dropping each other once spring rolls around. Basically, you stick together for some warmth during the winter months and then the love and attachment “melts away” with the arrival of spring. Our research shows that lots of people then retreat from their new relationships, a trend we are coining ‘snowmanning,’ said Rachel Lloyd, relationship expert at eharmony to The Mirror in 2019. “For those seeking meaningful connections, I’d suggest considering how compatible you are before launching into a Christmas cracker of a fling. That way you’ll hopefully avoid getting burnt.”
Why is ‘snowmanning’ a bad idea?
As per Simone, the first advice is that if your relationship ends by February, don’t sweat it as it wasn’t meant for you to begin with. “We know cuffing season is real,” shared the expert with Unilad. “In fact, Tinder data shows conversations were 18 per cent longer during cuffing season last year compared to the spring. When the nights get darker and colder, there’s a natural urge to find someone to curl up with.”Add in the Christmas holidays and the question of ‘Are you bringing someone?’ and the pressure can make literally anyone rush into a relationship. “What I want singles to remember is this: before you get swept up in the idea of seeing the long winter nights with someone, check in with yourself,” said Simone. “What do you actually want from a new connection?,” question yourself. Tinder’s Year in Swipe report showed that 56 per cent of singles want honest conversations and 60 per cent want clearer communication around intentions. “So be upfront about what you’re looking for – it sets the tone from the start and helps you avoid mismatched expectations.”
How to recover from ‘snowmanning’?
If you have been on the victim side of ‘snowmanning’ and have been left behind just as the sun came up, then it is vital to know that you did nothing wrong. “When someone goes all in fast and exits just as quickly, that behaviour says much more about their readiness for a relationship than your worth,” added the expert.“Think of it as a gift. They’re no longer taking up space in your life when they were never worthy of it to begin with. And you’re not alone – 31 per cent of singles say past relationships have helped them understand what they really want next.”Rather than focusing on finding someone for a season, it is better to wait for one that holds your hand through all the seasons of the world and life.
