What is Sexual Wellness?

What is sexual wellness? If you’re not entirely sure, you’re not alone.

Coming up with a solid definition of sexual wellness is a difficult task, as each society, culture, and individual has a different perception of what it means to be sexually “well.” Not to mention, there are immeasurable myths, misconceptions, and unnecessary taboos associated with sex that have contributed to an inaccurate or unhealthy understanding of sexuality.

These unhealthy and uninformed negative associations of sexual wellness are harmful to relationships, the general quality of life, and overall wellness. Get in the know about sexual wellness now.

How Do You Define Sexual Wellness?

In the same way that maintaining a clean bill of health or avoiding an unplanned pregnancy does not automatically make you sexually healthy, having a sexually transmitted disease doesn’t mean you can’t be sexually healthy either.

According to the World Health Organization, sexual wellness is a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well being concerning sexuality. It is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction, or infirmity.

Sexual wellness is a critical factor in our physical and emotional health. Our sexuality is a healthy and natural part of who we are. It’s an intimate expression of our emotions and personal beliefs and helps us to connect with the people around us. By understanding and increasing our sexual wellness, we bring our physical health in tune with our emotions and boost our overall health.

How Can You Be Sexually Healthy?

Sexual wellness is the understanding that sex isn’t just intercourse or masturbation. It’s related to our overall wellness, how we feel in our skin, and how connected we are with our partner(s).

Sexual wellness is comprised of several factors, including:

• Recognizing and respecting the sexual rights we all share.
• Having access to sexual health information, education, and care.
• Practicing safe sex and seeking care when needed.
• Experiencing sexual pleasure, satisfaction, and intimacy when desired.
• Communicating about sexual health with others, including sexual partners and healthcare providers.

A Word from GR8NESS

For most of us, sexual wellness is a work in progress. Try these tips to improve your own sexual wellness:

• Masturbate: Masturbation allows you to explore your body and, when done together with a partner, can increase intimacy while you learn more about each other. Likewise, masturbation helps to increase self-esteem and body confidence.
• Exercise: Not only does exercise increase blood flow and energy levels in both men and women, but it also decreases stress, which is the most common libido killer.
• Be Fully Present: Being fully aware during a sexual encounter increases pleasure, intimacy, and connection. Increase your awareness of what your partner is feeling and think purposefully and intentionally about your behavior in a sexual situation.
• Visit the Doctor: There’s nothing shameful about having medical professionals take care of any issues or answer any questions you may have. Get tested regularly and check up on what’s going on down there.