Yoga and Sex: Mental Exercise
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There is no question about it; yoga is a hip new trend in the world of exercise and health. It has become quite ordinary to see fit people strolling around busy metro areas with rolled up yoga mats under their arms, clad only in spandex-oriented clothing and emanating an aura of tranquility, balance and rabid “hippie” ideals. I admit it, readers – I count myself among the throngs of brainwashed yoga enthusiasts. I have been known to refer to “holistic health,” the “mind-body connection,” and the need to “breathe through pain” or “overcome negativity.” I am embarrassed about this but there is nothing I can do. So, as the yogese teach, I will embrace my situation.
This means it is time for a series of articles on yoga and sex. Obviously.
While it would be easy to jump quickly to the topic of certain suggestive body poses in yoga and their related sex positions, there are important non-physical benefits that doing yoga can bring to your sex life too. (Don’t worry – I plan to talk about yoga and sex positions in upcoming articles.) Because a large part of yoga centers around mind discipline, concentration on the present moment, and acknowledging sensations, it is inherently good training for an enhanced sexual experience.
As I have discussed in previous articles, a woman’s mental power/awareness contributes hugely to her ability to achieve orgasm. Because our brains are wired to multi-task and we are easily distracted from the present, many women find it difficult to maintain arousal when stressed, or juggling a busy schedule. Yoga requires that you draw your energy inwards, focusing on the feelings of your body, your breathing patterns, and creating a clear, open mind.
These ideas translate very well to better sex. If we can train our brains to shut off outside distractions and hone in on simple sensations, we will feel stimulation more intensely and be able to integrate the feelings more deeply. Try this next time you are engaging in sexual activity, whether by yourself or with a partner:
Close your eyes and allow your breath to settle into a slow in and out rhythm.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment4 Comments
I’m new to partner yoga, but found it really helps my sense of balance. Leeann Carey has a great free yoga video on partner yoga in warrior one pose that your readers might like: http://www.planetyoga.com/free-yoga-video-partner-pose-warrior-one/
October 12, 2010 - 2:21pmThis Comment
Wow, thanks for sharing this!! I don't know anything about partner yoga, but this video makes it look fascinating! It certainly seems like a great way to establish a connection with someone - whether romantic, sexual or otherwise. I will have to do some experimenting! Keep us updated on what you learn as you explore partner yoga more too!!
October 12, 2010 - 4:33pm"yogese" - nice new phrase you've coined, there!
But really, this is one of the best articles you've written yet.
"There is no reason we shouldn’t feel the same way for having sex! If we allow it, sex can be a health-inspiring activity in all realms of wellness: emotionally; mentally; physically and socially. And we deserve to acknowledge ourselves for engaging in healthy sexual practices." Great.
October 14, 2010 - 10:51pmThanks very much! Hope you are staying healthy in all realms of wellness, yourself.
October 16, 2010 - 6:14am