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Sex and mental health
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SUMMER OFTEN MEANS A BRIGHTER SPIRIT, MORE ENERGY TO TRY OUT NEW THINGS AND EXPLORE, SHOWING MORE SKIN, AND FOR SOME, EVEN FEELING A BIT SEXIER! WHETHER OR NOT YOU ARE KEEN FOR A SUMMER FLING OR REIGNITING THIS WITH A CURRENT FLAME/S, IT IS ALWAYS IMPORTANT TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WHILE YOU ARE SEXUALLY EXPLORING AND PLAYING.
Similar to other mind-body / psychosomatic experiences, our sexual health and mental health are interconnected. For example, consider these statements:
• I feel sexier when I am physically healthy. • I enjoy greater pleasure or sexual energy when I am in certain moods or mindsets.
• I can connect better sexually with myself or my partner/s when my sexual health and genitals are in good working order. • I can connect better emotionally and psychologically with myself or my partner/s when my mood and mental health is more stable and cared for.
If you can relate to any of these, then you’re not alone. When one element is a bit ‘off’ or unhealthy, it can affect the other, and our relationships.
Here are some tips to look after your mental health and your sexual health during this summers’ fun lovin’ season:
• Love yourself first – whether this is sexually through pleasure and masturbation, or a range of other self care activities, your own self love should always come first. You cannot pour from an empty cup. • Express – whether this is through talking with friends, personal expression through writing or creative expression through arts, dance, movement or sport, expressing your true self is key to maintaining mental stability and wellness. The flow on effects are good for us physically and we may even feel sexier too. Your sexual energy has a greater chance of flowing when you are in tune and alignment with other parts of your identity and self. • Connection – to self, others, higher beliefs, nature and genitals. Staying connected to what our genitals look and feel like, keeps us in tune with our bodies.
Mapping physical or hormonal changes can also be informative. Perhaps our bodies run to a cycle where we feel more alive and sexually charged at certain times, or we might notice lowered libido or spots when we are stressed. Greater connection can lead to greater information and empowered choices. • Play – staying playful, having fun and laughter and being a bit silly is good for our mental health. Our sexual health also benefits because we are activating our dopamine and endorphin chemicals.
Remember, have fun with yourself and others safely – creating mental health safety and strength is just as important as physical and sexual health safety.
Reach out if you need to:
