Enriching Part of Overall Wellness by Understanding Your Sexual Health
Physical Aspects
The physical aspects of it include being free from sexually transmitted infections, reproductive infections and cancers. Practicing safe sex helps protect physical sexual health. Using condoms correctly and consistently during vaginal, anal and oral sex lowers the risk of contracting or transmitting STIs. Getting regular STI screenings also helps monitor physical health. Knowing your STI status protects partners and supports shared responsibility for well-being.
Mental Aspects
The mental aspects of it include being mentally aware and comfortable with one's own body, sexuality, gender identity and sexual orientation. It involves feeling good about oneself and having consenting intimate/sexual experiences free from shame, guilt or anxiety. Part of good mental health is recognizing one's own sexual rights, needs and desires while respecting others. When individuals have positive self-esteem and feel comfortable discussing sexuality openly, their mental health is better supported.
Emotional Aspects
The emotional aspects of Sexual Health center around building intimate relationships based on honesty, trust and mutual care, respect, consent and shared responsibility. Having sexually satisfying experiences within caring, committed relationships is emotionally beneficial for many. However, sexuality and gender exist on spectra and not everyone experiences sexuality and relationships the same way. Emotional health celebrates diversity and having the freedom to define intimacy and sexual fulfillment differently. Overall, how we feel inwardly and treat ourselves and others emotionally is key.
Social Aspects
The social aspects of it depend on social support networks and having equitable access to its information and services. Living in a society where sexuality and relationships are openly discussed and information is widely available helps normalize sexual health as a basic human right and need. However, stigma, discrimination, lack of or poor access to healthcare and education can negatively impact social health. Discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, ability or cultural background creates unhealthy social barriers. Promoting inclusion, compassion, education and healthcare access for all enhances social sexual health.
Practicing Self-Care for Holistic Health
To maintain holistic sexual health, there are some everyday self-care practices that can support the physical, mental, emotional and social aspects:
- Regular exercise relieves stress and boosts self-esteem, contributing to wellness in relationships and sex life. Aim for 30 minutes daily.
- Nutritious eating provides lasting energy and nourishes the body and brain for overall wellness, including sexuality. Limit processed or junk foods.
- Adequate sleep recharges the mind and body, improves mood and sharper focus. Most adults need 7-9 hours nightly for equilibrium.
- Stress management through meditation, yoga or outdoors time lowers anxiety and frustration, allowing clearer thinking. Find healthy outlet/s that work.
- Communication skills strengthen friendships and relationships through active listening, expressing emotions respectfully and honesty while maintaining trust.
- Setting boundaries respects self and others by establishing what is acceptable regarding interactions, decisions impacting health, relationships, career and privacy. Have the confidence to say no.
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