Join Dr. Karen Gurney, a clinical psychologist and sexologist known for her groundbreaking book, as she unpacks the complexities of sexual desire. She challenges the conventional notions of desire, presenting it as a motivational force shaped by societal influences and personal histories. The discussion emphasizes the importance of emotional intimacy, communication, and intentional connection in enhancing sexual relationships. Dr. Gurney also explores the idea of 'sexual currency' and how everyday interactions can deepen intimacy between partners.
Desire should be viewed as a contextual motivation influenced by various factors, rather than a static urge dictated by societal norms.
Mismatched desire in relationships is common and should be navigated through open communication and understanding, rather than blame.
Deep dives
Rethinking Desire as Motivation
Desire is conceptualized as a motivation rather than a fixed physical urge. This perspective shifts the focus from a supposed static libido that society dictates everyone should possess to an understanding of desire as contextual and changeable. Instead of seeing desire as constant, it can be influenced by various non-sexual rewards and situational contexts that make sexual experiences feel worthwhile. This redefinition allows individuals to unpack the complexities of their sexual motivations, addressing the elusive nature of desire itself.
Understanding Mismatched Desire
Mismatched desire within relationships is more common than often perceived, challenging the notion that the person with lower desire is the one with a problem. The discussion asserts that societal beliefs about libido can confine perspectives, leading individuals to label themselves as having a low sex drive. Awareness that attraction and desire fluctuate based on context means that couples can approach mismatches as something normal to navigate together, rather than attributing blame. Redefining how partners perceive desire can help alleviate unnecessary guilt and frustration.
Curiosity and Communication as Keys to Sexual Satisfaction
Curiosity about one's own and one’s partner's sexual needs is highlighted as essential for enhancing desire and intimacy. The idea follows that open communication about sex fosters better understanding and helps couples navigate their sexual journey. By encouraging individuals to reflect on what turns them on or off, partners can better understand their own motivations and learn how to support each other's desires. This dialogue not only strengthens the sexual aspect of their relationship but also deepens emotional connection.
Creating Context for Desire to Flourish
Establishing an environment where desire can develop is crucial, as it often responds to the context rather than appearing spontaneously. Scheduling time for intimacy and fostering non-sexual touches can set the foundation for sexual arousal, allowing desire to arise in a safe and relaxed space. The discussion emphasizes that merely waiting for desire to occur is ineffective; instead, intentionality and effort in nurturing intimate connections are necessary. Recognizing that the brain is the primary sexual organ reinforces the importance of altering dynamics to rekindle desire in relationships.
In this episode of The Sexual Wellness Sessions, hosted by Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist Kate Moyle, we're discussing how we can rethink our ideas about sexual desire with Dr Karen Gurney, the brilliant author of Mind The Gap : The Truth About Desire And How To Futureproof Your Sex Life.
Desire is often a misunderstood concept; and how we talk, think and feel about it can play a big role in our sex lives and relationships. This conversation is about what we should expect from desire, how it changes across relationships, and how what we think we know about desire may actually hinder us in our sex lives.
This episode was sponsored by Ferly, the sexual wellness app empowering wxmen to overcome sexual difficulties with science based tools and techniques. You can find out more about the app via their instagram @weareferly or via their website https://weareferly.com/
Kate Moyle is a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist, who is passionate about having open and normalising conversations about sex and relationships, and helping people to get to a place of sexual health, happiness and wellbeing.
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