Two weekends ago, I attended the SASHA (South African Sexual Health Association) Biannual Conference. In just two days, I experienced a lot of learning, countless paradigm shifts and many insights that have expanded my views.
Sexual health touches every corner of life, intersecting with physical, mental, social, and emotional wellbeing. I’m incredibly grateful to have gained awareness of some perspectives and topics I didn’t know that I didn’t know about! It’s been a journey of recognizing some areas I’d overlooked and considering new ideas.
In my practice, I focus on trauma, which often includes sexual trauma. I also work with pain, pelvic dysfunction, and conditions like vaginismus, vulvodynia, and erectile dysfunction, using a neuro-psycho-informed approach in physio and somatic informed mindfulness coaching. As a member of the World Association of Sexual Health (WAS), I stand firmly behind our mission of “sexual health and rights for all.” I recognize what a long way we have to go to obtain this goal.
Reflecting on what I learned at SASHA, I’m reminded of just how far we have to go for everyone to truly enjoy the pleasure available to them, that is also their birth right. Did you know that:
43% of women and 31% of men face sexual challenges?
South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV in Africa, with 19-36% of children born HIV positive?
Human diversity goes far beyond race, religion, or culture—it includes gender identity, sexual orientation, attraction, ability, neurodiversity, and more. By “othering” those who differ from us, we create deep harm. Imagine how much richer our lives could be if we brought curiosity, compassion, and non-judgment to everyone we meet. Think how boring it would be if we all thought and acted the same way! What can you do today to make those who find themselves on the fringe of society feel more included and that they belong?
A Thought for You to Consider…
Have you ever explored your own erotic mind? Have you shared fantasies with a partner or someone close? This can be a powerful intimacy-building exercise. If you feel you don’t have fantasies, perhaps it’s time to cultivate some. Have you explored your own sexual identity? Or did you just take societies’ norm to be your own? Maybe there is some exploration here that could serve you?
Breaking Free from Our Own Constraints
It takes courage to break free from cognitive rigidity and self-defense, but that’s where growth, evolution, and joy await us. When we live in the prison of our own self-imposed barriers, we miss out on the joy, pleasure, and freedom we all deserve.
Wishing you a week filled with love, joy, and all the pleasure you can imagine!
Much Love,
Sue
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