Sex refers to the biological characteristics that distinguish males from females within a species and the process of sexual reproduction. In humans, sex includes a range of physical, physiological, and psychological factors related to reproduction, sexual attraction, and sexual behavior.
A study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, which promotes access to biomedical and genomic information, concluded that individuals who endorse the sexual double standard are more likely to behave and hold beliefs that align with traditional gender roles.
Our thoughts and emotions greatly influence how we perceive our bodies, which in turn affects our sexual health. It’s so important to be compassionate with yourself and take care of your body, even if it doesn’t always satisfy you. Your physical health also affects your mood and mental health.
Navigating sex can be tricky, especially if your partner finds parts of your body attractive but you dislike or find them painful. Remember that you have the right to enjoy sex and shouldn’t feel pressured to use parts of your body that make you uncomfortable. Learning new skills and improving communication can help you negotiate safer sex and boost your confidence.
Introducing estrogen hormones into your body can increase your libido and create a desire to explore new experiences with different people, genders, and body types. Everyone has different preferences, and some people may enjoy being the passive or penetrative partner in anal, oral, or vaginal sex. Experts say there are more ways than ever to protect yourself and your partner, including different types of condoms, dams, lubricants, and other medical options.
A 2014 study by the Journal of Sex Research surveyed 760 participants, including 449 women and 311 men, about their definition of sexual satisfaction. While responses varied, two main themes stood out: individual sexual well-being and the bilateral process.
In terms of an individual’s sexual well-being, the experience of pleasure goes beyond orgasm to include positive feelings during sexual activity, desire for a partner, lack of inhibitions, feelings of arousal, and mutual pleasure between partners.
With regard to dyadic processes, the study highlighted the importance of emotional expression such as novelty and surprise, courtship and romance, and creativity in sexual satisfaction.
Dr La Keita Carter, a US licensed psychologist specialising in trauma, sexual health, relationships, addictions, women’s issues and cultural barriers to treatment, points out in her book that dissatisfaction with the frequency of physical intimacy is a significant issue, according to the Centre for Research and Understanding Sexual Health’s most recent Sex Frequency and Satisfaction report.
This dissatisfaction is widespread across many cultural groups, including race, gender, age, sexual orientation and marital status.
The 21st century Indian philosopher Osho has a very clear definition of sex. He sees sex as a source of energy. He believes that sex is a natural and essential part of human life and speaks extensively about sex in his teachings.
Below are some key points from his perspective on sex.
Acceptance and blessingOsho emphasized the importance of embracing one’s sexuality without guilt or shame. He encouraged people to celebrate sexual energy as a powerful force that can lead to spiritual growth.
Awareness and awarenessHe emphasized the importance of awareness and consciousness during sexual activity. He believed that through mindfulness and presence, an individual could transform sex into a meditative and spiritual practice.
Transcendence of the SelfHe suggested that sex has the potential to transcend the ego and connect individuals with a deeper sense of wholeness and oneness.
Detachment and Non-AttachmentWhile Osho celebrated the beauty of sexual expression, he also warned against over-attachment and dependency on the sexual experience for fulfilment. He encouraged individuals to cultivate non-attachment and an inner fulfillment that goes beyond physical desires.
Although his teachings on sexuality were often controversial and were only one aspect of his broader spiritual philosophy, Osho’s views on sexuality were influenced by a variety of Eastern and Western traditions, as well as his own insights into human psychology and consciousness. As with any spiritual teacher or philosophy, interpretations of Osho’s teachings on sexuality may vary from person to person.
Let’s talk about how meditation can improve your sex life.
According to a study conducted by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, meditation can positively impact your sex life in a variety of ways: It deepens the mind-body connection, increases awareness and presence, reduces stress, and promotes relaxation.
These findings suggest that compared to women who do not meditate, women who meditate generally have better sexual function, which in turn leads to better overall mental health.
Another study conducted by the same organization in 2023 addressed the effect of mindfulness practice on men’s sex lives: Specifically, practicing mindfulness improves sexual satisfaction, libido, erectile function, orgasmic function, and self-control.
These findings can provide valuable insights for sex therapists and researchers to better understand men’s sexual well-being and satisfaction. Similarly, mindfulness practice has been shown to increase variables related to self-esteem that may be influenced by societal and physical standards, thus influencing sexuality. For example, mindfulness improves body image, sexual self-esteem, and genital self-image.
Meanwhile, mindfulness practice has been shown to reduce sexual shame, sexual anxiety, and the association between alcohol use and sexual assault. These improvements have also been observed in men with physical disabilities.
Further research and meta-analyses on the effects of meditation on sexual satisfaction have concluded that:
Heightened awareness and sensualityMeditation cultivates mindfulness, allowing you to become more aware of sensations in your body, including those associated with sexual arousal. By focusing more on the moment, you can enhance your experience of touch, pleasure, and intimacy.
Stress and anxiety reductionStress and anxiety can have a major impact on your libido and sexual function. Meditation techniques, such as deep breathing and mindfulness meditation, can help reduce stress hormones like cortisol and promote relaxation, making it easier to forget your worries and focus on the present.
Improved emotional connectionMeditation enhances emotional intimacy and connection with your partner by cultivating empathy, compassion, and communication skills. As you become more sensitive to your own emotions and those of your partner, you can deepen your bond and have a more fulfilling sexual relationship.
Enhancement of sexual energy: Certain forms of meditation, such as yoga and tantra, aim to channel and nurture sexual energy, known as kundalini energy, throughout the body. Harnessing this energy and circulating it through various energy centers and chakras can increase arousal, vitality, and pleasure.
Overcoming Sexual Dysfunction: For people with sexual dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction or difficulty reaching orgasm, meditation can be a helpful tool. By addressing underlying psychological factors such as performance anxiety and negative self-talk, meditation can promote self-confidence, relaxation, and a healthier way of thinking about sex.
While meditation can have significant benefits for your sexual health and wellbeing, it is important to remember that it is not a substitute for professional medical care or psychological therapy when dealing with serious sexual issues. Also, everyone’s experience of meditation may be different, so it’s important to try different techniques to find what works best for you.
