Meditation and sexual health

Sex refers to the biological characteristics that distinguish males and females of a species, as well as the process of sexual reproduction. In humans, sex includes various physical, physiological, and psychological components associated with reproduction, sexual attraction, and sexual behavior.

A study by the US National Center for Biotechnology Information, which facilitates access to biomedical and genomic information, concludes that people who hold sexual double standards tend to display behaviors or views that are more consistent with traditional gender roles.

Our thoughts and feelings strongly influence how we perceive our bodies, which in turn affects our sexual well-being. It’s important to be compassionate towards yourself and take care of your body, even if you don’t always feel comfortable doing so. Your physical health can affect your mood and mental well-being.

Sex can be challenging, especially if your partner finds body parts attractive that you don’t like or find bothersome. Remember, you have the right to enjoy sex and you shouldn’t feel pressured to use body parts that you’re uncomfortable with. Learning new skills and better communication can help you negotiate safer sex and build your confidence.

The introduction of estrogen hormones into the body can affect your sex drive and lead to a desire to have new experiences with other people, genders and body types. Everyone has different preferences and you may enjoy being a receptive and penetrative partner during anal, oral or vaginal sex. According to experts, there are now more options than ever to protect yourself and your partner, including different types of condoms, protective films, lubricants and other medical options.

A 2014 study in the Journal of Sex Research surveyed 760 participants, including 449 women and 311 men, about their definition of sexual satisfaction. Responses varied, but two main themes stood out: personal sexual well-being and dyadic processes.

In terms of personal sexual well-being, the experience of pleasure went beyond orgasm and included positive feelings during sexual activity, desire for the partner, lack of inhibition, arousal and excitement, and mutual enjoyment between partners.

With regard to dyadic processes, the study highlighted the importance of emotional expression, courtship and romance, as well as creativity, such as novelty and surprise in sexual satisfaction.

Licensed US psychologist Dr. La Keita Carter, who specializes in trauma, sexual wellness, relationships, addiction, women’s issues and cultural barriers to treatment, points out in her writings that according to the latest report on frequency and satisfaction with sex from the Center for Researching and Understanding Sexual Health, dissatisfaction with the frequency of physical intimacy is a significant problem.

This dissatisfaction cuts across cultural groups and affects 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 integral part of human life and he talks about it at length in his teachings.

Below are some important points from his perspective on sex:

Acceptance and celebration: Osho emphasized the importance of accepting one’s sexuality without feelings of guilt or shame. He encouraged people to celebrate their sexual energy as a powerful force that can lead to spiritual growth.

Awareness and mindfulness: He emphasized the importance of mindfulness and awareness in sexual experiences. He believed that through mindfulness and presence, people could transform sex into a meditative and spiritual practice.

Transcendence of the ego: He believed that sex had the potential to transcend the ego and connect people through a deeper sense of unity and connection.

Detachment and non-attachment: While Osho extolled the beauty of sexual expression, he also warned against becoming too attached or dependent on sexual experiences for fulfillment. He encouraged people to develop a sense of detachment and inner satisfaction that goes beyond physical desires.

Although his teachings on sex were often controversial and represented only one aspect of his broader spiritual philosophy, Osho’s views on sexuality were influenced by various Eastern and Western traditions as well as his own unique insights into human psychology and consciousness. As with any spiritual teacher or philosophy, interpretations of Osho’s teachings on sex may vary from person to person.

Let’s talk about how meditation improves our sex life.

According to studies from the US National Library of Medicine, meditation can positively impact your sex life in several ways. It promotes a deeper mind-body connection, increases awareness and presence, reduces stress, and promotes relaxation.

These findings suggest that women who meditate generally have improved sexual function, which is associated with better overall mental health, compared to women without meditation experience.

Another study conducted by the same organization in 2023 refers to the effectiveness of mindfulness practice on male sexuality. Specifically, its application improves sexual satisfaction, sexual desire, erectile function, orgasm function and self-control.

These findings can provide valuable insights for sex therapists and researchers to better address men’s sexual well-being and sexual satisfaction. Likewise, mindfulness practice has been shown to increase variables related to self-esteem, which can be influenced by social and physical standards and can affect sexuality. For example, mindfulness improves body image, sexual self-esteem, and genital self-image.

On the other hand, mindfulness practice has been found to reduce sexual shame, sexual anxiety, and the association between alcohol consumption and sexual assault. These improvements have also been observed in men with physical disabilities.

Further studies and meta-analyses have been conducted on sexual satisfaction through meditation, which summarize the following results:

Increased awareness and sensuality: Meditation promotes mindfulness, which makes you more aware of your bodily sensations, including those related to sexual arousal. By being more present in the moment, you can enhance your experience of touch, pleasure, and intimacy.

Less stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety can significantly affect sexual desire and performance. Meditation techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness meditation help reduce stress hormones such as cortisol and promote relaxation, making it easier to let go of worries and focus on the present moment.

Improved emotional connection: Meditation can improve emotional intimacy and connection with your partner by promoting empathy, compassion, and communication skills. Becoming more attuned to your own emotions and those of your partner can help you deepen your bond and create a more fulfilling sexual relationship.

Improved sexual energy: Meditation practices such as certain forms of yoga and tantra aim to channel and cultivate sexual energy, often called kundalini energy, throughout the body. By harnessing this energy and circulating it through various energy centers and chakras, people can experience increased arousal, vitality, and desire.

Overcoming sexual dysfunction: For individuals experiencing sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction or difficulty achieving orgasm, meditation can be a helpful tool. By addressing underlying psychological factors, such as performance anxiety or negative self-talk, meditation can promote confidence, relaxation, and a healthier attitude toward sexuality.

It’s important to note that while meditation can provide significant benefits for sexual health and well-being, it is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological treatment when treating serious sexual problems. Additionally, individual experiences with meditation can vary, so it’s important to try different techniques and find what works best for you.