We are who we are, we like what we like, and we love who we love.
These three truths are unequivocally true but are easier said than done when it comes to the concept ofsexuality.
It also encompasses emotional and romantic connections.
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Sexual orientation ranges far behind this binary way of thinking.
Sexuality vs.
Sexual Orientation
It is critical to remember that sexuality and sexual orientation are not the same thing.
Sexual orientation only speaks to attraction.
This can include masturbation, oral sex, and penetrative sex.
Emotional and Romantic Connections
Emotional and romantic connections also play into how we experience our sexuality.
Emotional connections can serve as a foundation forromantic feelings.
In some circumstances, these emotions can lead to feelings of romance.
Any way you feelfrom emotionally connected to romantically excited to simply sexually engagedis okay.
Factors Influencing Sexuality
Biological, cultural, and societal factors all influence our sexuality.
However, there is a big difference between intellectually understanding this and having an embodied experience of self-acceptance.
Something many struggle with accepting is their sexual orientation.
This is key to remember: who you are is not wrong.
Our cultures tendency to oppressmarginalized communitiesis what is wrong.
In cultivatingself-acceptanceand self-compassion, finding community can be incredibly important.
Spector agrees with this and shares that a community doesnt need to be a large group of people.
There are so many stories about us out there waiting to be acknowledged and recognized, he asserts.
Sexuality is a huge umbrella experience for so many aspects of the human experience.
Allow yourself to witness, accept, and embrace all of who you are.
Considerfinding a therapistor asupport group.
You don’t have to go it alone.
National Institute on Aging.
Sexuality and Intimacy in Older Adults.
American Psychological Association.Understanding sexual orientation and homosexuality.
2019;56(9):1083-1090.
Brown JL.Sexual behavior.Encyclopedia of Behavioral Medicine.
