Embracing Pleasure

When something really good happens in your life, do you take time to bask in that good feeling?

The amount of pleasure we welcome in our day-to-day activities relates to the sexual pleasure we experience in our intimate lives. If you are always on the go, often feel as if there’s never enough time, or have difficulty slowing down and taking a break, you may consider examining your relationship with pleasure.

The busy-minded culture we live in rewards exponential productivity. When we say we don’t have enough time to take a break even though we are stressed, what does this tell us about our priorities? Regardless of the societal reward, a lifestyle dependent on a frenetic pace is not sustainable. The reward of a pleasurable life brings a deeper kind of nourishment and satisfaction.

Pause and consider how you would like to experience your life differently. If the day-to-day feels stressful, are there moments you can find to relax and restore your energy? When you are taking a break from tasks, let your mind rest as much as your body. 

Start slowly to expand your pleasure tolerance.

Baby steps for letting in more pleasure…

Breath and body connection:
During your work day as you manage competing priorities and tasks, find small moments to pause and take 1-3 deep breaths. Invite your body to let go of tension in your jaw, shoulders, and stomach.

Mindful eating and gratitude:
Allow yourself to savor the next meal you have. Marvel at the flavors and textures, with gratitude for this moment to nourish your body that does so much for you.

Work with affirmations:
Next time you question whether you can take a moment to do something nice for yourself, remind yourself that you are worthy of pleasure, and you are allowed to feel good.

There are many ways to continue to cultivate a pleasurable life. Keep taking those small steps and finding what is most pleasurable and resonant for you.