Sex and Body Image
Where intimacy is involved, there you will find bodies. Now, I must assert that intimacy comes in two different fashions -physical and emotional. Today, we explore the primary confines of physical intimacy in relation to body image. We will also be touching on some of the emotional intimacy along the way as we discover how intimacy as a whole, works.
We seek to be intimate through many means. Intimacy is found under such expressions, from a simple gaze to an embrace. In fact, sexual intimacy is simply one of many here. Where body image comes into play, however, is the aspect of connection and confidence.
Sex is something that touches on the unification between mind and body. Emotions fathomed within sexual activity only come from the physical nature of sex itself. In summary, emotional and physical intimacy is woven into this sexual tapestry.
Yet, what happens when we lose ourselves to poor body image?
Well, this disrupts sex and intimacy, causing rifts of emotions that can spiral out of control. It is an imbalance of the emotional and physical. Feelings of inadequacy surge in waves, and focus becomes lost in the process. The very benefits of sex suffer as a consequence, but more so the union and relationship it was trying to create.
Those affected become sullen and disappointed. Confused at times by what occurred, they may even attempt to salvage things. Although, sometimes it can be overwhelming to do so. The problem with body image is that those afflicted by it tend to think less of themselves. They lack confidence, which is the breeding ground for insecurity.
This low sense of self leads to a defeating stance over the relationship, even pouring into the connections that arrive with sex. The pleasure that we once experienced through the ecstasy of sexual activity, then loses its hold. It goes limp, as a result, of ill-conceived ideas about how we look and what we look like.
A loss of sexual pleasure means a loss of sexual desire. This is also a means for a loss in arousal, where physical attraction plays a part. Suddenly, sex is a chore or disaster waiting to happen. These false associations around sex transform to be as relevant and vivid as they can to the individual. It is no delusion per se, but an accusation of what they think is imperfect.
Perfection is a construct over standards deemed admirable by a majority. Regardless, just because we might look different, does not necessarily mean we are lower in class. To regain better sex, we must first re-attune ourselves to the relationship with our bodies. Body image is no small matter.
All its significant ties have to be identified as we must learn to recognise what compels us to this dysfunction. Ask yourself, “When did I begin to find my body repulsive?”. This is where we can start. The questioning may spark anxiety that tempts us to leave things be. We might even experience fear or dread from our innermost being.
It is often at this moment, that we can admit the first step could be the hardest. The reason for this lies in what will occur afterwards. The questioning phase brings a cascading level of decisions we have to consciously make with each new answer. It is here that we require a steady stream of loving support from those closest to us, like our partners.
We demand patience and a certain tenderness. A warmth that balances consideration and grace. Encouraging these seeds to prosper will be key to a budding recovery. What blooms out of it will ultimately be a refreshing sexual intensity that outcompetes the last.
If you are curious about how best to begin this intervention, we can help with that. Feel free to get in touch or book online. We will be ready when you are.
