Charting Toward Intimacy

Get Let's Talk About "It" right here and transform your marriage and sex lifeThis episode delves into the common experience in marriages where one spouse feels they are giving more than the other, particularly in the context of sex life and overall marital responsibilities. Ellen and Kathleen discuss the myth of a 50/50 marriage and share personal stories of times when they and their spouses bore unequal burdens. They highlight how these imbalances are a part of life’s seasons and encourage focusing on the effort and sacrifices each partner makes in different areas.___________________________________ 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

Get Let's Talk About "It" Right HERE!Ellen discusses the concept of marital debt and the perceived obligation for married couples to have sex. She explores this in the context of Catholic teachings on attending Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation. Ellen argues that the true essence of these obligations lies not in mere obedience but in a deep, life-giving desire. Just as attending Mass should stem from a genuine yearning to connect with God, marital intimacy should be driven by a desire for deep communion with one's spouse, rather than a mere sense of duty___________________________________ 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 Getting in the Mood Guide!In this episode Ellen and Kathleen explore the challenges and frustrations often associated with Natural Family Planning (NFP). They delve into the importance of choosing positive thoughts and gratitude, even in difficult circumstances, to improve one's marital intimacy and overall outlook on NFP. Through practical advice and thought-provoking insights, Ellen and Kathleen encourage listeners to shift their perspective, recognize NFP as a gift, and find strength in their faith and discernment.___________________________________ 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 our courses and guides at Vinesinfullbloom.com/coursesIn this episode Ellen addresses the common concern of finding time for sex in the midst of busy modern lives filled with jobs, kids, and various commitments. Ellen emphasizes that we find time for what we prioritize, comparing the scheduling of sex to the commitment of attending Mass. She encourages listeners to evaluate their weekly activities, prioritize sex, and follow through on these priorities to enhance their marital intimacy. Ellen suggests practical steps, including scheduling and hierarchical prioritization, and reassures listeners to trust in God's provision of time and capacity.___________________________________ 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

In this discussion, Kathleen Chavanes, a semi-regular co-host with insights on Catholic intimacy, explores the complexities of expressing sexual desires within marriage. She emphasizes effective communication and shares personal anecdotes on navigating difficult discussions with partners. The importance of setting the right mood for intimate conversations is highlighted, along with the power of positive thinking. Listeners are encouraged to embrace imagination as a tool for enhancing intimacy and managing sexual arousal.

Need help getting in the mood for sex. Your answer is the getting in the mood guide, right hereEllen discusses the challenge of staying present during sex and introduces the concept of storytelling as a helpful technique. She clarifies the difference between storytelling and role-playing, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the dignity of the act in accordance with Catholic faith. Ellen provides examples of how couples can use their imagination to create engaging scenarios and memories to enhance intimacy. She also mentions a new guide available for more tips on getting in the mood using imaginative and morally appropriate methods.___________________________________ 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 Getting in the Mood Guide Here!In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the appropriateness of Catholic women consuming romance novels and PG-13/R-rated media like Bridgerton and Game of Thrones. They explore the potential negative impact such content can have on brain chemistry, intimacy, and marital relationships. The hosts offer practical advice on recognizing and eliminating detrimental media from one's life, emphasize the importance of using one's imagination positively, and recommend using spiritually enriching content like Song of Songs to foster intimacy. They also introduce a forthcoming 'Getting in the Mood' guide to help women find morally acceptable ways to enhance their marital intimacy.___________________________________ 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

Get the FREE Foreplay Foundations Course right here!In this episode, Ellen discusses the challenges of communicating and embracing the Church's teachings on Natural Family Planning (NFP) and marital intimacy. She reflects on a personal conversation with a family member who acknowledged that NFP is a 'hard sell.' Ellen delves into the difficulties of living out these teachings, the role of suffering in the Christian life, and how enduring these challenges can ultimately lead to spiritual growth and redemption. She encourages listeners to remain steadfast in their faith and commitments, despite the inherent struggles.___________________________________ 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

Kathleen Chabanis, a semi-regular co-host and insightful voice on relationships, dives into the crucial topic of marital connection. She discusses how intentionally cultivating habits, like prayer and connection rituals, can rejuvenate intimacy. The pair emphasize small acts, such as cuddling and evening walks, as essential to combat disconnection. They highlight that persistence in these efforts, likened to daily prayer, can yield powerful transformations in relationships. Tune in for strategies to enhance your sex life and foster deeper bonds!

Get the FREE Foreplay Foundations Course Here!Ellen addresses common questions and concerns about sexual desire within marriage. She discusses the significance of sex as a renewal of wedding vows and as a way to image the Trinity, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and respect toward the sexual union in marriage. Ellen explores how apathy towards sex can harm relationships and underscores the holy and essential nature of sex within a Catholic marriage.___________________________________ 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