Mindfulness + Sex: Buzz Word or Best Practice?

Sexuality is more than what happens between the sheets and behind closed doors. It’s an essential part of who we are, an energy that radiates through every interaction we have. A thread that runs through our communication, self-image, and relationships. Within the realm of our sexuality, when something goes awry and we don’t have the tools or communication skills to address it, problems can occur.

Even with our closest friends, sexual health or dysfunction might seem embarrassing or weird to share. The trouble is, not sharing can leave us feeling alone and shameful. Sexual health issues encompass our physical, emotional, mental, and social wellbeing and are more common than you think. Symptoms of sexual dysfunction show up as anxiety, pain, low libido or depression. Sexual health changes across the lifespan and issues that may arise are varied.

Aside from being open with people you trust, mindfulness is a scientifically proven tool to help with anxiety and negative emotions that might be associated with sexual health or disfunction. Mindfulness is a practice of actively paying attention to the present moment and observing our thoughts and feelings without judgement. This allows us to experience the present moment and not be controlled by any negative thoughts or emotions. We can use mindfulness as a tool to help understand our bodies, emotions, and thought patterns. When practiced regularly, it can help alleviate stress, self-judgement, pain, anxiety, and depression.

Mindfulness is an empowering tool that we can use to feel more satisfied with ourselves, improve our sexual health, and direct our attention to connection instead of performance. Have you used mindfulness as a practice to improve your sex life? Why or why not?