Charting Toward Intimacy

Kathleen Chavonis joins the conversation, bringing her rich insights on intimacy and communication. She emphasizes key discussions couples should have to enhance their sexual relationships, especially newlyweds. The dialogue explores the intricacies of arousal, sexual initiation, and the importance of understanding personal preferences. Listeners learn about navigating intimacy through cycle awareness, effective communication strategies, and the art of humor in overcoming awkward moments. Practical tips for enhancing intimacy are also shared, making this a must-listen for couples seeking deeper connections.

Give me one hour and you'll learn how to orgasmIn this episode, Ellen addresses the common concern of needing to focus on yourself to orgasm and reassures listeners that doing so is not selfish, but rather an essential part of the mutual self-gift in marriage—emphasizing that vulnerability, presence, and receiving pleasure are key to deepening intimacy and unity with your spouse.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Grab the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here and try a new position tonight!In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the topic of transactional sex within marriages. They share personal stories, emphasize the importance of non-transactional intimacy, and provide actionable steps to address and resolve feelings of transactional sex. From scheduling sex to understanding each other's love languages, this episode equips couples with practical advice to foster a healthy, loving sexual relationship.Interested in some new Lingerie? Try Mentionables, we love them because they don't use models and you can get 10% off with code CHARTING10___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Grab the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!If you’ve ever felt unseen or pressured when your husband asks about sex, this episode is for you. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, communicate your needs with confidence, and invite more intimacy and understanding into your marriage. Walk away feeling empowered, cherished, and ready to enjoy deeper connection with your spouse.Need more support? Check our courses linked below___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Check out the Orgasm Course for Catholic WomenGo to listen to episode 224 first, our intro to the Temperaments and Sex Life topic!In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen break down how each temperament pairing can affect intimacy and communication in marriage. They discuss the unique challenges and strengths of every combination, offering practical tips for understanding your spouse and building a stronger relationship.Temperament Pairings & Timestamps:Choleric + Choleric — 5:52Choleric + Sanguine — 9:43Choleric + Melancholic — 13:31Choleric + Phlegmatic — 20:40Sanguine + Sanguine — 26:14Sanguine + Melancholic — 29:10Sanguine + Phlegmatic — 34:28Melancholic + Melancholic — 37:42Melancholic + Phlegmatic — 41:32Phlegmatic + Phlegmatic — 45:09___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Just one position can change everything. Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!In this episode, Ellen shares a personal story from her third pregnancy, when the usual routines in the bedroom no longer worked. Instead of resigning herself to months of less enjoyable intimacy, she and her husband decided to try new positions—leading to a surprising transformation in their sex life.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is right here!In this episode, Ellen discusses the Catholic Church's teaching on the necessity of male ejaculation inside the vagina, even in cases of infertility, menopause, or pregnancy. She explains the deep theology and symbolism behind this teaching, emphasizing that sex is not just a physical act but a sacramental sign of total self-gift. Ellen explores how sex maintains its meaning and integrity by following God's design, reflecting on the body's language in Theology of the Body. Key references include Catechism 2366 and 2367 and Humanae Vitae.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Find out the 100% Catholic Way to orgasm right here!In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss how everyday habits affect brain chemistry, focusing on hormones like dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and cortisol. They explore the negative impacts of dopamine and cortisol on relationships, especially marriage and intimacy, and offer practical strategies for reducing excessive phone use and avoiding quick dopamine hits. They emphasize the importance of deep connection and long-term bonding for overall well-being and spiritual health.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Explore the transformative power of envisioning your future self with an incredible sex life. Delve into a mental exercise designed to shift your thoughts and beliefs, bridging the gap between your current reality and your intimate aspirations. Discover how positive beliefs can enhance your intimacy and inspire actionable steps towards achieving the sex life you desire. Get ready to transform your mind drama into empowerment and fulfillment!

In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss why the Catholic Church opposes permanent sterilization methods such as vasectomies and tubal ligation. They explore deeper meanings behind the church’s teachings, the natural design and purpose of sex, and the importance of trust and intimacy in marriage. The episode also addresses medical concerns and distinctions between direct and indirect sterilization while emphasizing the moral and spiritual implications of these decisions.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses