Better Sex 259: Somatic Approaches to Anxiety During Sex with Indigo Stray Conger
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman interviews sex therapist Indigo Stray Conger about the impacts of anxiety on sexual experiences. They delve into the common sexual concerns clients bring, such as libido discrepancies, erection issues, and orgasm control, and explore how anxiety can exacerbate these problems. Indigo shares her expertise on using somatic, body-based approaches to manage and alleviate anxiety, emphasizing the importance of breathwork, mindfulness, and creating awareness of subtle pleasure cues. The discussion also touches on the significance of sexual health for overall well-being, the cultural taboos surrounding conversations about sex, and strategies for enhancing intimate connections with partners.
00:00 Welcome to Better Sex
00:46 Introduction to Anxiety in Sex
01:31 Guest Interview: Indigo Stray Conger
03:27 Common Sexual Concerns and Anxiety
06:26 Somatic Approaches to Anxiety
10:20 Practical Exercises for Couples
15:03 Breathing Techniques for Relaxation
21:13 The Importance of Sexual Pleasure
22:40 Cultural and Educational Barriers
24:55 Conclusion and Resources
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Bio
Indigo has been a psychotherapist since 2008 and has over a decade of therapeutic training, including as one of the few AASECT certified sex therapists at a supervisory level. She trained as a therapist in San Francisco, a mecca for awakened sexuality and alternative lifestyles, before moving back to her hometown of Denver and co-founding Mile High Psychotherapy PLLC with her husband. Indigo holds a master’s degree in somatic (body integrated) psychotherapy. She addresses mental health and relational dynamics from the perspective of our embodied selves, utilizing applied neuroscience and mindfulness practices to soften protective defenses and re-inhabit physicality. Utilizing an attachment theory lens, Indigo guides her clients towards reclaiming the space between them as joyful and exciting. She is frequently consulted as a sexuality and open relationship expert in publications such as Women's Health, Mind Body Green, and The New York Times.
facebook.com/MileHighPsychotherapy, website: milehighpsychotherapy.com
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More info and resources:
Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcast
Secret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcast
How Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com
The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com
The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com
Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com
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