What this episode is about
Learn why prioritizing your pleasure is essential for mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
In this episode
- Why Self-Pleasure Matters
- Starting Your Self-Pleasure Journey
- The Ripple Effect of Self-Pleasure
Moments from this episode
Word for word from the recording. Tap a time to hear it.
Start by being kind to yourself
“Self pleasure is healthy and makes us human. To create a shame free environment, start by being kind to yourself and acknowledging that your desires are valid.”
Grow your pleasure repertoire
“When it comes to self pleasure the key here is to expand your pleasure repertoire so you can create new pleasure pathways in your brain and body and experience deeper, more fulfilling pleasure.”
More than physical pleasure
“It's about reclaiming your connection to your body, your desires and your well being. It's a powerful form of self care that can transform how you feel about yourself and your life.”
“It all starts with you taking pleasure literally into your own hands, taking responsibility for your pleasure.”
Gabriella Espinosaat 2:59
Hear this momentFeel more pleasure, 10 minutes a day.
10 Days of Pleasure is free. One 10-minute turn-on in your inbox each day. Each one comes with the expert from my podcast who explains why it works.
Day 1 lands in your inbox in a minute. My letter comes after the 10 days, and you can unsubscribe any time.
Show notes
Listen on Spotify or Apple:
In a world where discussing pleasure, especially self-pleasure, is often shrouded in shame and secrecy, it's time to break the silence and rediscover the power of connecting with our bodies.
As a midlife and sexual wellness coach, I've seen firsthand how learning the art of self-pleasure can profoundly impact our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. In this article, we'll explore why self-pleasure is essential and how you can start your own practice to reignite the spark within.
Read the full show notesShow less
Why Self-Pleasure Matters
Self-pleasure is more than just a means to sexual gratification; it's a fundamental aspect of self-care and self-love. By engaging in regular self-pleasure practices, you can:
- Reduce stress and enhance your mood
- Boost your confidence and self-esteem
- Reconnect with your body, especially during perimenopause and menopause
- Discover what lights you up and brings you pleasure
- Empower yourself to take responsibility for your own pleasure
Despite these numerous benefits, many of us still struggle with feelings of guilt or shame around self-pleasure. It's time to rewrite that narrative and recognize that our desires are valid and that taking pleasure into our own hands is a healthy, human experience.
Starting Your Self-Pleasure Journey
Here are some simple steps to get you started:
- Create a safe, comfortable space: Find a private area where you feel relaxed, whether it's your bedroom, a cozy corner, or even your bathroom. Light a candle, put on some soothing music, and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment.
- Explore different types of touch: Begin by rubbing your hands together to generate warmth, then slowly sweep them across your body, barely touching the skin. Experiment with soft, fluid strokes, grounding and firm pressure, or even playful taps and pinches. Notice how each type of touch makes you feel and where you crave more attention.
- Focus on sensation, not goals: Self-pleasure is about the journey, not the destination. Let go of any expectations or pressure to achieve a specific outcome, and simply allow yourself to be immersed in the sensations and emotions that arise.
- Incorporate gentle movement, breath, sound and visualization to amplify the sensation of touch and move the energy of pleasure throughout your whole body.
- Integrate self-pleasure into your routine: Set aside a small window of time each day to connect with your body, even if it's just a few minutes. Consistency is key to developing a lasting and nourishing self-pleasure practice.
Remember, there is no right or wrong way to engage in self-pleasure. It's a deeply personal experience that is guided by what feels good to YOU. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and approach the process with curiosity and self-compassion.
The Ripple Effect of Self-Pleasure
As you deepen your self-pleasure practice, you may notice a profound shift in how you relate to yourself and others. By cultivating a loving, appreciative relationship with your body, you'll likely find that you:
- Feel more confident and at ease in your own skin
- Have better communication with partners about your desires and boundaries
- Experience enhanced emotional and physical well-being
- Radiate a sense of self-assuredness and vitality that attracts positive experiences and people into your life
Embracing the Art of Self-Pleasure
Learning to pleasure yourself is an act of radical self-love and a powerful form of self-care. It's time to shed the stigma and shame surrounding this natural, healthy practice and embrace the profound benefits it offers. By taking that first step and exploring what feels good to you, you're reclaiming your right to pleasure and setting the stage for a more vibrant, fulfilling life.
So, whether you're new to self-pleasure or looking to deepen your existing practice, remember that your pleasure matters. Trust your body, follow your curiosity, and let self-love be your guiding light. The journey to self-discovery and empowerment starts with a single, courageous step – and you're already well on your way.
A Special Invitation:
If you're ready to take your pleasure to the next level, I invite you to click the link below to learn more about my new coaching program, "Pleasure Upgrade."
★ Details: pleasureinthepause.com/coaching
Let's awaken your pleasure and infuse your life with unshakable confidence, together.
About your host
Gabriella EspinosaI talk with doctors and experts about pleasure, desire and feeling fully alive in midlife. This one's just me.More about me
