There was a lot of talk of recession as I sat down to write this editor’s letter. While the news cycle was dominated by warnings of an economic recession following another interest-rate rise, I was surprised to read we are already in the midst of another downturn – a “sex recession”. This second type of slump is well-advanced in Western societies, according to world-renowned psychotherapist Esther Perel in an interview on the Good Weekend Talks podcast today. Perel, whose TED talk on infidelity has had more than 25 million views, also speaks of the “gradual social atrophy” causing a narrowing of our relationships – where we have just enough contact with others not to feel alone, yet fail to achieve genuine connection. As well: the weight of domesticity on desire, and how couples can recover from affairs. – Melissa Stevens, editor
You have reached your maximum number of saved items.
Remove items from your saved list to add more.
A fossil hunt in a remote Argentinian province has revealed a skeleton critical to the story of biology’s grandest experiment.
Almost 12 months after the Bondi massacre, Ahmed Al Ahmed reflects on his brave actions on the day – and his struggles in the aftermath.
The world-famous psychotherapist on how to manage the tension between love and desire.
Tennis-mad Sonny Rennison was told he wouldn’t be able to walk any more – but he just made tennis history in New York.
In northern France, the story of Australian troops who died during World War I is still being written in stone.
Two brothers, one mission: to run 3400 kilometres across Australia – and record every painful step.
The Kiwi singer-songwriter on religion, death and body confidence.
Sketch the object that’s in front of you – not the idea of it you hold in your head – says our expert.
In the streets, villages and corners of Siem Reap, other spectacles are waiting to be discovered.
Sometimes discretion really is the better part of valour, advises Modern Guru; public transport is very, erm, public.
You’ll be transported to the Italian countryside when you eat this insanely delicious combo.
Has Melbourne reached omakase saturation point? There’s always room for more if it’s as genuinely creative and disarmingly tasty as this luxury fish parade.
With a former Icebergs chef at the helm and a farm-to-table approach, Sara Dining is the first two-hatter for the region.
Trivia buffs: can you get a perfect score in the interactive superquiz?
The 52 Weekends Away + Short Breaks issue: fast, fresh ways to have a swell time | Coastal chic, city stays, offgrid getaways | Looking after Lady Elliot Island
What is football club culture teaching men about women? | Jelena Dokic on a crucial life lesson | Chris Bowen’s make-or-break moment | Comedian Dara Ó Briain
