Mindfulness to Improve Sexual Well-Being
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It can be a powerful tool for improving sexual health in a number of ways. Mindfulness can help you to be more present during sex. When we're mindful, we're not lost in thought about the past or the future. We're fully focused on the sensations of the present moment. This can help us to enjoy sex more and to connect more deeply with our partners.
Practicing mindfulness can help you to reduce stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety can often interfere with sexual desire and performance. Mindfulness can help to reduce stress and anxiety by teaching us how to calm our minds and bodies.
Mindfulness can also help you to communicate more effectively with your partner. When we're mindful, we're more likely to be aware of our own needs and desires. We're also more likely to be able to listen to our partners without judgment. This can lead to better communication about sex, which can lead to a more satisfying sexual relationship.
It has been shown to help in sexual problems. If you're struggling with any sexual problems, mindfulness can be a helpful tool. Mindfulness can help you to relax and to focus on the sensations of sex. It can also help you to identify and challenge any negative thoughts or beliefs that may be contributing to your problem. Here are some tips for using mindfulness to improve your sexual health:
Practice mindfulness on a regular basis. There are many different types of mindfulness practices. You can find one that works for you by doing some research online or by talking to trained professional.
Pay attention to your body during sex. Notice the sensations of touch, taste, smell, sight, and sound. Don't try to change anything, just observe. If you’re getting distracted or there is something preventing you from being able to be present in your body, notice what that is and decide if you’d like to speak with your partner, a trusted friend, or a professional who specializes in sex.
Focus on your breath. When your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your breath.
Be present with your partner. Focus on them and on the experience of being with them.
Don't be afraid to communicate with your partner. Let them know what you're feeling and what you need.
Mindfulness is a powerful tool that can be used to improve sexual health in a number of ways. By practicing mindfulness, you can learn to be more present during sex, reduce stress and anxiety, communicate more effectively with your partner, and overcome sexual problems. Here are some additional resources for learning more about mindfulness and sexual health:
The Mindful Sex Project: Mindful Sex: A Guide To Becoming Fully Present Sexually
Better Sex Through Mindfulness: Book and workbook by Lori Brotto.
If you’d like additional support in learning and practicing mindfulness exercises to lower stress, manage anxiety, be more present in your life, connect with a partner, and/or improve your sex life, click here to request a session.
I am a PhD in Clinical Sexology candidate at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes and have a Master of Science in Educational Psychology. I work with individuals, couples, non-monogamous relationships, and groups in topics related to sexuality, emotional regulation, communication dynamics, and changing behaviors.
