Overcoming Sexual Anxiety

Welcome to the Sexual Wellness for Women Podcast – your trusted resource for sexual wellness during menopause and different stages of life. I’m your host, Allie, a board-certified sexologist and certified integrative wellness coach. As I pursue my PhD in mind-body medicine, I’m dedicated to providing you with the knowledge, tools, and support you need to navigate the complexities of sexual wellness.
As a sexologist and integrative wellness coach, I combine scientific knowledge with a compassionate and holistic approach. I believe in the power of mind-body connection and the transformative potential of embracing our unique sexual selves. Together, we’ll navigate through the complexities and debunk myths surrounding sexual wellness during menopause and different life stages.
So, whether you’re in the midst of menopause, perimenopause, or simply seeking guidance on sexual wellness, this podcast is for you. It’s time to prioritize your sexual well-being and embrace the vibrant, confident, and fulfilled woman you are.
Today is Thursday, 9/14/2023 –thank you for tuning in and giving me a listen.
And don’t forget if you like this episode, please give it a 5-star rating, review or share with 3 friends!
WEEKEND WELLNESS TIP: Medication Review
Some medications can affect sexual drive and performance. Talk to a healthcare provider if you experience side effects affecting your sexual health.
TOPIC: Overcoming Sexual Anxiety
Let’s begin by acknowledging that experiencing sexual anxiety is entirely NORMAL. From young adults to mature women, sexual anxiety does not discriminate. It’s how we approach and navigate it that defines our intimate journey.
Understanding the Roots of Sexual Anxiety
Sexual anxiety isn’t a one-size-fits-all issue. It varies for everyone. For some, it might stem from body image concerns – wondering if they’re too thin, too curvy, or if their stretch marks are too visible. For others, it could be linked to past traumas or experiences that left emotional scars. And then there’s performance anxiety, societal pressures, or even the vulnerability of being intimate. Pinpointing the root cause is your first step toward healing.
Communication is Key
When facing sexual anxiety, one of the most therapeutic actions is simply talking. If you have a partner, share your feelings. Remember, vulnerability can often strengthen bonds. Your partner may even share some of their insecurities, making you realize you’re not alone in your feelings.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Our mind is often our biggest enemy when it comes to anxiety. We overthink, overanalyze, and create scenarios that don’t exist. Integrating mindfulness practices into your daily routine can be transformative. By anchoring yourself in the present, you alleviate worries and overthinking. Even just 10 minutes of focused breathing daily can pave the way for more relaxed, stress-free intimate encounters.
Educate Yourself
There’s an empowering sense of confidence that comes with knowledge. Familiarize yourself with your body. Explore what feels good, set boundaries, and know it’s okay to communicate these to a partner. Books, workshops, or even trusted websites can be sources of valuable information.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
Sometimes, our anxieties require a more expert touch. Sex therapists or counselors and sex coaches are trained to help individuals navigate their intimate concerns. They offer tools, strategies, and coping mechanisms tailored to your unique challenges. Remember, seeking help is a testament to your strength, not a sign of weakness.
Focus on the Journey, Not Just the Destination
We live in a goal-oriented world, but intimacy isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about the shared glances, the playful touches, the whispered words. Rather than pressuring yourself to achieve a certain ‘end goal’ in your intimate moments, savor the journey. This shift in mindset can alleviate a lot of performance-related anxieties.
Practice Self-love and Affirmation
Embrace yourself – every curve, every mark, every unique aspect. Stand in front of the mirror, look into your eyes, and affirm your worth. “I am beautiful,” “I am deserving of pleasure,” “I am in control of my sexuality.” These positive affirmations, over time, can reshape your self-view, fostering a more confident and anxiety-free intimate life.
Your sexual wellness journey is personal and ever-evolving. Challenges like sexual anxiety are merely milestones, teaching you, guiding you, and ultimately making your journey richer. You’re not alone, and with the right tools, mindset, and support, you can navigate through a fulfilling, passionate, intimate life.
CONCLUSION
Thank you for joining me on this episode of “Sexual Wellness for Women.” If you found the information valuable and enjoyed the discussion, I would truly appreciate it if you could take a moment to rate and review the episode. Your feedback helps me reach more people and spread the message of sexual wellness.
Remember, the more listeners we have, the more people I can help have their “ah-ha” moments when it comes to their sexual well-being. So, please share this podcast with your friends, family, and anyone who can benefit from our discussions.
And speaking of helping others, don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Wisdom. I share even more tips, tricks, and inspiration on these platforms to support you in your journey towards sexual wellness.
Lastly, I want to remind you that you are a wonderful sexual being. Embrace your uniqueness, take care of yourself, and prioritize your sexual well-being. Remember, pleasure and fulfillment are your birthright.
Thank you for tuning in, and I hope you have a passionate week ahead. I’ll catch you next time for more empowering conversations on “Sexual Wellness for Women.”