Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, sociologist and sexologist, writes her sex advice and gender commentary blog. The sex blog includes relationship advice, free sex education videos, sex tips, sex-positive mindfulness, and podcast interviews.
I started writing this book six years ago. As a sociologist, I wanted to address what I call the “madness” around female sexuality — all of the negative, undermining, inaccurate, and shameful messages many girls and women receive when growing up around sex, intimacy, and their bodies…
Read MoreDid you learn everything you needed to know about the birds and the bees when you were growing up? Probably not! Braxton Dutson is a sex therapist in Salt Lake City and the host of the Birds & Bees podcast. He interviewed me about sexy mindfulness and mindful sexiness….
Read MoreThis was a cool podcast interview on the Igniting Intimacy podcast because the host wasn't afraid to dive into controversial topics around politics, gender, and sex! We focused on sexual harassment and #MeToo, what to do about micro-cheating, and mindful sex….
Read MoreIs chosen abstinence ever a good path in our sexual journeys? This is the first time I really talked about the wise use of sexual energy. Brett Larkin, on her Sivana Yoga Podcast, interviewed me about some unique aspects of sex and sexual energy, and kept me on my toes!
Read MoreBoring sex? Pain during intercourse? Distracted in bed? Sex addiction? No desire to get it on? Is it possible that all these sexual concerns and sex problems could have the same remedy? Yes, and that remedy is the ancient Buddhist practice of mindfulness.
Mindfulness is an awareness skill of being present in the moment, with your thoughts, emotions, and sensations. It is noticing the present moment and – here’s the kicker – not judging what you notice. The health benefits of mindfulness are profound: stress reduction, decline in anxiety, depression relapse prevention, overcoming addiction, and reducing chronic pain, not to mention greater happiness and fulfillment in life.
Researchers are also delving into the sexual realm to see how mindfulness can improve sex lives. Although little research has been done so far, it seems to be beneficial for women with low desire, vulva pain, and emotional distress from past sexual trauma. There is anecdotal evidence that it is valuable for sex “addiction,” erectile dysfunctions, and boredom.
I’ve been integrating mindfulness-based practices into my sex coaching and couples intimacy work for several years because I think it’s the foundation for all personal growth, and some sex therapists use it as well. Do you freak out with jealousy if your boyfriend receives a text from another woman? Mindfulness can help break that automatic pattern. Are you distracted during sex by your perception of your bulging belly or your long chore list to to-do items? Mindfulness skills keep you grounded in the moment and release such mind chatter. Integrating little daily practices of mindfulness can make these big brain changes.
I have mindfulness on my brain more than usual this week, because I just went to a sex conference this weekend. Its not as sexually titillating as it may sound, but it will be intellectually titillating. At this 2012 annual conference for AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, & Therapists) in Austin, TX, I will be speaking on “Get Out of Your Head & Into Your Body: Improving Sex Lives Through Mindfulness.” My take home message for the audience? Mindfulness is the new sexy.
~Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, San Diego, CA -- Sex Coach, Marriage Coach, Sexologist, College Sexual Health Speaker
(This was originally posted as part of Pacific San Diego Magazine's sex & love blog series.)
Dr. Jenn is a sociologist and relationship & sexuality speaker who challenges our cultural beliefs around sex, sexual consent, gender roles, and health intimacy, with a mindfulness and compassionate approach. Her site includes a sex blog, free sex education videos, sexuality speaking information, and mindfulness resources.
