In this episode Ellen and Kathleen explore the topic of chastity within marriage, emphasizing that chastity goes beyond merely abstaining from sex. They discuss the deep and abundant grace available through the sacrament of marriage and how living out chastity can enhance marital intimacy and union. The conversation covers the Catechism's teachings on chastity for all baptized individuals, regardless of marital status. They debunk common misconceptions about chastity, highlighting its importance across different life states and within marriage, where it encompasses engaging in sexual relations healthily and wholesomely. The episode also touches on inappropriate behaviors that contradict chastity in marriage and offers practical advice on fostering intimacy and maintaining a chaste relationship, especially during times when sexual activity must be avoided. ___________________________________ 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 episode Ellen shares a personal revelation about finding God's presence and grace in the imperfections of married life and liturgical celebrations. Despite her initial frustration with less-than-perfect liturgies during the Easter Triduum, Ellen is reminded through prayer that God's grace is not limited by human imperfections. She draws a parallel between her experience with liturgies and the realities of married life, emphasizing that God works through the 'messiness' of both to bring about His grace. Apply to 1:1 Coaching!___________________________________ 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

This episode focuses on the common issue among couples regarding the disparity in sex drives, a topic frequently brought up by listeners. We propose a perspective shift, suggesting couples view these differences as blessings that can forward the relationship and increase 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

In this episode, the focus is on the church's teachings regarding manual stimulation and masturbation within the context of marriage. We'll go through basically all of the different scenarios of manual stimulation from masturbation to stimulating the other person. Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women at vinesinfullbloom.com/orgasm___________________________________ 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 episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen and Kathleen tackle the challenge of internalized purity culture and its impact on women's sexual thoughts. They discuss the phenomenon where healthy sexual desires within the context of marriage are mistakenly treated as intrusive thoughts due to purity culture's teachings. The discussion includes defining intrusive thoughts, sharing personal struggles with accepting sexuality, and the journey of healing the relationship with sex from the perspective of Catholic women. Check out the 12 week Renewed Intimacy Coaching Program___________________________________ 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 episode we'll address the misconception among individuals practicing Natural Family Planning (NFP) that their sexual desire only peaks during the fertile window due to hormonal influences. Listen in to see what you really need to change to experience more desire for sex!___________________________________ 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

This episode addresses the complexities and challenges couples face regarding postpartum sex. The episode covers the expectations, fears, and physical changes women and their partners might experience, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding, and patience. Techniques such as perineal massage and the use of lubricants are suggested to ease discomfort and anxiety during postpartum sexual activity. Additionally, discussions include men's perspectives on postpartum sex, the importance of pelvic floor therapy, and the possible impact of SSRIs on sexual function. The episode is designed to equip couples with knowledge and tools to navigate postpartum sex, enhancing intimacy and relationship satisfaction.___________________________________ 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

Ellen addresses the common pursuit of perfectionism in marriage and sexual relationships, emphasizing that perfection is not a prerequisite for intimacy or spiritual growth. She discusses how striving for a perfect relationship or sexual encounter can be paralyzing, whereas embracing the imperfection can lead to significant growth, healing, and a deeper bond. Trial, error, and grace-filled perseverance in sexual intimacy can transform and sanctify marriage.Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women at vinesinfullbloom.com/orgasm___________________________________ 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 episode of 'Charting Toward Intimacy', Kathleen and Ellen discuss the misconception of sex being a love language. They explain that sex should be a result of love and intimacy rather than the base of it, and argue that using sex as the glue that holds a relationship together creates a false expectation and could become unfulfilling over time. The five love languages - words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch - are examined, with the assertion that each is inherently separate from sex. The necessity of understanding one's own and their partner's love languages to truly fulfill each other's needs is emphasized.Apply now to Ellen's 8-week one on one coaching program and see how your marriage and sex life can be transformed in just 2 months. ___________________________________ 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 episode Ellen discusses the deep connection between sex and prayer. She implements the teachings of the Catechism, arguing that just as prayer cannot be reduced to spontaneous desire but requires an active will, sex should also not be reduced to spontaneous physical desire. She encourages listeners to recognize the depth of sexual relations as an experience of unity and not just physical satisfaction. She also stresses that desire for sex should be understood as a longing for deeper unity and relationship with one's 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