In today’s conversations, terms like “self-care” and “mental wellness” are frequently brought up as people become increasingly aware of the significance of mental health. However, there’s an aspect of mental wellness that might not be as commonly discussed, and that’s sexual wellness.
Although not yet widely mainstream, the recognition of sexual wellness is growing, supported by wellness advocates and sexual health experts who emphasize the need for heightened awareness. So, what exactly is sexual wellness?
It’s more than just experiencing pleasure or having satisfying orgasms, although those aspects are undoubtedly beneficial. Sexual wellness encompasses emotional, physical, and mental aspects, all interconnecting with one’s sexuality.
Regrettably, sexual wellness often doesn’t find a place in standard sex education curricula, and this omission is truly unfortunate. Its importance cannot be overstated. Here are a few compelling reasons why sexual wellness holds immense significance:
Abundant research indicates that sexual pleasure can enhance sleep quality, fortify the immune system, and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
A study conducted on a group of 200 high-earning women aged 35 to 64 revealed that the majority believed a fulfilling sexual relationship positively impacted their career.
A Harvard University study that spanned 80 years found that individuals experiencing sexual satisfaction tended to live happier and longer lives. This research suggested that fulfilling sexual relationships were key to longevity.
Does this imply that to live longer, be happier, and potentially earn more, one needs to engage in more sexual activity?
Well, yes, to some extent. However, it’s a bit more nuanced than simply having more sex. Sexual wellness delves into deeper aspects like intimacy, self-worth, and contentment. Fortunately, even if your current state of sexual wellness isn’t optimal, there are methods to enhance and improve it.
Learn to self-discover and satisfy yourself
Discovering how to satisfy yourself is crucial; it paves the way for others to please you better. Take your time, free from any time constraints or disruptions, and explore your body to understand what feels pleasurable.
Begin by exploring areas like your nipples, gradually moving towards your clitoris, vagina, and see if you can locate your G-spot. You can use your fingers and some lubrication for this exploration or consider using a vibrator.
For instance, utilizing a vibrator like the Rabbit Vibrator can heighten your chances of experiencing orgasm and elevate your overall sexual satisfaction. Its unique design and stimulating features can provide sensations beyond what your fingers alone can offer. Remember, sexual satisfaction doesn’t always have to rely on someone else; you can achieve it yourself.
To find your G-spot, gently navigate internally and upwards behind your pubic bone. There, you might discover a small, fleshy area that can trigger intense pleasure. Exploring and understanding your body through self-exploration can cultivate a more positive perspective on pleasure.
Proactively seeking what has never been seen before in sex education
Regrettably, if you don’t actively pursue sexual education, it’s unlikely you’ll receive it. A survey on women and their sexual education unveiled that 77% of women never had discussions about pleasure, while 70% were never educated about consent. Pleasure and consent are crucial aspects yet often overlooked in discussions.
Even if you did receive some form of sexual education, it might have been misrepresented or lacking. For instance, if there was a substantial amount of shame associated with sex and women’s bodies, you might feel uncomfortable with your own body and sensuality.
Explore blogs, magazine articles, or consider ordering books online from platforms like Amazon. Provide yourself with the education you missed out on or counteract the harmful perspectives you were taught.
Determine if you need professional support
While exploring external resources can be beneficial, there are moments when seeking professional guidance becomes essential to address deep-rooted issues. Just as you’d reach out to a mental health professional when facing mental health challenges, a sex therapist can provide valuable support.
Whether you’ve encountered sexual trauma or struggle with intimacy, these obstacles or negative associations can significantly impact your relationships, overall quality of life, and well-being. A sex therapist, a specialized psychologist in sexual matters, is adept at assisting individuals in overcoming such challenges.
Moreover, if you encounter physical discomfort like pain during intercourse, consulting a pelvic floor therapist or physician can be helpful.
Increase communication with your partner to express your wishes
If discussing consent, boundaries, and pleasure feels challenging with your partner, consider following the steps mentioned earlier. Engaging in such conversations might not come naturally to everyone, but it holds immense importance. According to numerous sex experts, communication is a cornerstone for achieving sexual satisfaction.
Recognizing that sex is not solely physical but also deeply emotional, the absence of emotional intimacy can significantly impact your sexual experiences. Conversations about sex shouldn’t be exclusive to new partners; they are equally essential within long-term relationships.
Over time, your sexual desires and preferences may evolve. By fostering open communication, you can enhance your sexual satisfaction and overall wellness.
In the future, we may witness discussions around sexual wellness becoming as commonplace as those regarding mental wellness, and that’s a positive direction. Sexual wellness is multifaceted and can influence various aspects of life while remaining susceptible to change.
If you feel your sexual wellness is less than ideal, trying any or all of the strategies mentioned here can be a step towards improving it because you deserve to feel fulfilled in this aspect of life!
