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.
In this episode of "In the Den With Dr. Jenn," yoga instructor Kirsten Selway stops by the Den to discuss the benefits of yoga for a better sex life.
GUEST
Kirsten Selway of Birdrock Yoga
SEXUAL FUN FACT
Where are women injecting silicone, to make themselves look sexier to others?
POSITION OF THE DAY
Firing the Human Cannonball
DEN RECOMMEND
Slim Calm Sexy Yoga by Tara Stiles
I was lying flat on my mat. It was time for savasana at the conclusion of a rigorous yoga class. I felt happy and relaxed…but there was something else. It was an overwhelming feeling of joyful contentment. I was surprised to recognize that I was feeling blissful.
The term bliss is perhaps more often used regarding sensual delights such as consuming a dark chocolate ganache, the deep calm after experiencing waves of multiple orgasm, or the emotional context of a wedding. I believe there are many paths to bliss. I think the yoga class opened a pathway to bliss because of its holistic approach to the body. Not only did I physically exert myself, but I was also mentally proud of my accomplishments and emotionally soothed through the deep breathing. Socially I had created positive energy and shared this connection with other yoga students. And spiritually I felt integrated as a full being.
What comes to mind when you think of bliss for yourself? What contexts and experiences induce blissful feelings? It can be helpful to use a holistic breakdown to approach this topic, like I did with my yoga example. Are there activities that merge many facets of yourself and open the space for bliss? We all have experiences that assist in achieving this state, whether it’s a massage, the flow of dance movements, viewing an expansive vista on a hike, or watching a baby sleep. Choosing these means you are exposing yourself to experiences that allow for your release to the splendor of the moment.
Why do we care about bliss? If there is an opposite state to stress and anxiety, this is it. Perhaps bliss is always within us, available to tap into by removing blocks and accepting what is there. Regardless of how you find it, creating paths to your own bliss can help remind you that it’s all going to be ok. And that’s a beautiful feeling.
Sex Therapy & Relationship Counseling in San Diego
My intention for the new year is to honor my body. So this week I signed up for three months of unlimited yoga. Half-way through the first class, as my sweat made the mat too slippery for firm positioning, I questioned what the hell I was doing. But now 4 classes later, I am reminded of the power of yoga for balance and joy.
Yesterday was an odd day and I was feeling under the weather, both physically and emotionally. Yet knowing that I would be attending a 5:30pm yoga class took the edge off the day a bit. In the first child's pose, I smiled with my face to the mat, because I knew the next hour was sacred time for me to be present with me. During the final shavasana, I usually relax and smile with the thought of what I get to eat when I go home (food is a motivator for me). But last evening I noticed myself mentally escaping and brought my awareness back to my body. I can already feel my spine straightening more. I'm aware of muscles in my abs and ass I haven't felt in quite some time. I feel more aware of and appreciative of what my body is capable of doing. And I felt peaceful and happy.
I'm thrilled that for the next three months (at the least) I'll be taking it all the mat. For me, a regular yoga practice is such a positive and holistically balanced outlet for stress, anxiety, frustration, fear, and sadness. By the end of an hour I had a great workout...and life just makes more sense.
Sex Therapy & Relationship Counseling in San Diego
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.
