(
Take a beat.
Try to think about the number of times today you’ve registered a feeling in your body– a niggling backache, or a sudden hunger pang. Then try to think about the number of times today you’ve felt a strong emotion– laziness, anger, maybe a flash of inspiration.
And finally, ask yourself– when was the last time you thought about sex?
Sex isn't just the act of 'doing it'.
It can be all sorts of things – a feeling, a moment, or just a thought. It permeates almost all aspects of our lives, from the moment we’re old enough to register changes in our physical and mental selves. It’s always around, an invisible layer to every interaction.
Yet, it’s something we barely talk about or openly acknowledge (we've written more on that here and here).
The educational system in most parts of the world, like India, hasn’t done a great job of teaching us about the real aspects of sex– the non-textbook thoughts we’ve all had at some point (Are we normal for feeling this way?). And if you’ve actually had an open conversation with your parents about what sex really feels like, you’re in the minority.
As we grow up, sex increasingly takes center stage. It’s subjective and pretty hard to define, but the WHO takes a stab, stating that sexuality is:
“… a central aspect of being human throughout life that encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction. Sexuality is experienced and expressed in thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviours, practices, roles and relationships… Sexuality is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, legal, historical, religious and spiritual factors.” (WHO, 2006)
Phew, that’s a lot.
To sum up – sex basically influences, and is influenced by, pretty much every single aspect of our lives.
But when was the last time you really stopped to think about it? To think about what intimacy means to you? Or expressed how you truly felt in the bedroom? Or decided to take control of your own sexual wellness?
We invest so much of our time, effort and money on our physical health and emotional wellbeing. But being a happy, healthy, positive person means thinking about all aspects of our uniquely human experience.
And let’s be real– what’s more integral to that than sex?
Sexual wellness, therefore, just means taking your sexual self more seriously.
Getting to know your body, your desires, what works for you and what doesn’t. Taking care of yourself, and whoever you choose to share yourself with.
So join us, and explore what sexual wellness means to you.
--
While our contributors do research a great deal to give you up to date and relevant content, this is basis publicly available information. Our contributors are not doctors or healthcare service providers and our content does not constitute or act as a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis under applicable laws. All suggestions, advice, points of view etc., are meant for adults in the privacy of their own homes.
