241: Sex and Our Stress Response with Rachel Posner

Understanding Stress Responses and Mindfulness in Intimate Relationships

In this episode of the Better Sex podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman interviews Rachel Posner, who discusses the importance of understanding and managing stress responses in intimate relationships. Rachel explains the body's stress mechanisms like fight, flight, or freeze responses, and how these can affect our connections and sexual encounters. She emphasizes the significance of mindfulness and practical techniques like breath awareness to regulate the nervous system, aiming for greater safety, connection, and pleasure in relationships. Various strategies and the benefits of mindfulness are explored to help listeners lower their stress levels for improved intimacy.

00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast

00:53 Interview with Rachel Posner: Understanding Stress Responses

01:59 Exploring the Nervous System and Stress Triggers

12:29 Impact of Stress on Relationships and Sexual Experiences

16:52 Mindfulness Practices for Reducing Stress

20:51 Practical Tips for Mindfulness and Relaxation

28:10 Conclusion and Resources

Special Collections of the Better Sex Podcast: https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/collections

https://www.rachelposner.com/take-5-practice

Bio

Rachel Posner, C-IAYT, E-RYT, is a yoga therapist and mindfulness coach helping people reduce stress, build resilience and thrive. She offers individual yoga therapy sessions, mindfulness courses, yoga memberships and retreats. Her work is informed by the intersection of mindfulness, neuroscience and psychology and her teachings integrate best practices for the mind, body and brain. Rachel has been in the wellness field for 24 years and is driven by a deep desire to help people feel calm, connected and engaged in their lives. You can learn more at www.rachelposner.com

More info and resources:

Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcast

Secret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcast

Special Collections of the podcast:

Increasing Desire Episodes

Eroticism and Excitement Episodes

My Favorite Authors

How Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlife