In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, losing touch with our bodies is easy. However, mindfulness techniques offer a valuable means to re-establish this lost connection. By focusing on the present moment and embracing a non-judgmental attitude, mindfulness allows us to become more aware of our physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts. Mindfulness can be a transformative tool. It invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and notice what is happening within our bodies.
And yes, mindfulness does extend to our sexuality, offering a gateway to exploring intimacy with a fresh perspective. Slowing down and being present can deepen our connection with our partners and ourselves. This article explores a variety of mindfulness techniques that you can practice from the comfort of your home to deepen your connection with your body and sexuality.
By Venus Libido
Venus Libido is a qualified Sex Educator, Sex and relationships coach and training Clinical Sexologist and relationships therapist. For the last three years, Venus has been working in the field of sex education, sex toys and pleasure, endometriosis awareness and helping others when it comes to sexual wellness, intimacy, dating and relationship.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, observing thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. It encourages awareness and acceptance of your experiences.
Mindfulness encourages curiosity and play, allowing room for exploration and discovery without judgment or pressure. It fosters a safe space where we can communicate openly, express our desires, and embrace vulnerability. It takes some practice, and don't be afraid to get it wrong, but the best way to get started is to practise mindfulness outside of sex first.
This might be acknowledging your food's taste, smell and texture. It might involve moving to your favourite songs and realising how your body responds to the sounds or even attending some yoga classes. Find what works for you and provides you with time and space to slow down and acknowledge how your body feels. Then, you can take this into your sexuality.
Mindful Breathing
One of the simplest yet most effective mindfulness practices is mindful breathing. This technique involves focusing on your breath, observing the rhythm, and noticing how your body moves with each inhale and exhale.
To practice mindful breathing:
- Find a comfortable seated position or lie down.
- Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
- Begin to observe your breath, noticing the sensation of air entering and exiting your nostrils, your chest's rise and fall, and your abdomen's expansion and contraction.
- If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the breath without judgment.
This technique can help you become more present, reduce stress, and enhance your connection with your body.
VIDEO: Watch April and Divine Theratrix' livestream!
For this teamstream, Venus Libido teamed up with fellow sex educator and therapist Divine Theratrix.
Body Scan Meditation
A body scan meditation is a somatic technique that encourages you to pay attention to different parts of your body and observe any sensations or tension.
To practice a body scan meditation:
- Lie down on your back or sit in a comfortable position.
- Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
- Focus on your toes and slowly move your attention upward through your body.
- Notice any sensations, tightness, or areas of relaxation as you progress.
- If you find tension, try to release it by consciously relaxing those muscles.
This technique can be beneficial for becoming more aware of your body and identifying areas of tension or discomfort that may affect your sexuality.
Sensory Awareness Practices
Sensory awareness involves tuning into your senses to enhance your perception of the world around you. This can help you become more aware of your body's responses to stimuli and deepen your understanding of what pleases and doesn't please you.
Try this exercise:
- Choose a sensory experience to focus on, such as tasting a piece of fruit, listening to calming music, or touching a textured object.
- Focus entirely on that experience, observing the sensations, textures, sounds, or flavours without distraction.
- Notice how your body reacts and what sensations arise.
This practice can be beneficial for exploring sexuality, allowing you to understand what feels good and what doesn't.
Movement and Stretching
Movement-based techniques, like yoga or gentle stretching, can improve body awareness and flexibility. They can also reduce tension and increase one's comfort with one's body.
To integrate movement and stretching into your mindfulness practice:
- Choose a yoga routine or simple stretching exercises.
- Focus on the sensations in your body as you move and stretch.
- Pay attention to areas of tightness or discomfort and make adjustments as needed.
These practices can help you become more comfortable in your own skin, more aware of your limitations, and more aware of what feels good for you.
Why practice Mindfulness?
Mindfulness techniques provide valuable tools for enhancing body awareness and developing a healthier approach to sexuality. Practising these techniques at home can deepen your connection with your body, reduce stress, and improve your relationships with yourself and others. Whether through mindful breathing, body scan meditation, sensory awareness, or movement-based practices, these techniques can help you embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
If you want to learn more about mindfulness and sex, then I recommend 'Better Sex Through Mindfulness: How Women Can Cultivate Desire' by Lori A. Brotto and Emily Nagoski.
Do you practice mindfullness in your sex life? Let us know in the forum!
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