The role of sexual mindfulness in sexual wellbeing, Relational wellbeing, and self-esteem

Abstract

In this study we examine the role of sexual mindfulness in individuals’ sexual satisfaction, relational satisfaction, and self-esteem. Midlife U.S. men and women (N = 194 married, heterosexual individuals; 50.7% female; 94% Caucasian, age range 35–60 years) completed an online survey. More sexually mindful individuals tended to have better self-esteem, be more satisfied with their relationships and, particularly for women, be more satisfied with their sex lives. Some of these associations occurred even after controlling for trait mindfulness. These findings may also allow researchers and therapists to better address an individual’s sexual wellbeing, relational wellbeing, and self-esteem by teaching sexual mindfulness skills.

Mindfulness, perceived partner responsiveness, and relationship quality: A dyadic longitudinal mediation model

“…The fact that relationship mindfulness and general tendencies to be mindful are differentially related to relationship processes and outcomes suggests that researchers may benefit from measuring both forms of mindfulness when examining mindfulness in relationship contexts. From a broader research perspective, our findings emphasize the value of taking context into account when measuring mindfulness, as has been done with recent efforts to develop context-specific measures in domains such as sexuality (Leavitt et al, 2019).…”

“…Mindfulness has primarily been investigated as a domain-general construct having strong associations with relationship outcomes (e.g., Barnes et al, 2007; Karremans et al, 2017; McGill et al, 2016). However, recent research has begun identifying domain-specific types of mindfulness, including mindfulness within a particular romantic relationship (i.e., relationship mindfulness; Kimmes et al, 2018) or a given sexual experience (i.e., sexual mindfulness; Leavitt et al, 2019). These domain-specific types of mindfulness may play meaningful roles in enhancing the quality of individuals’ relationships; for example, relationship mindfulness has been shown to predict relationship outcomes over and above general mindfulness in cross-sectional studies (Kimmes et al, 2020).…”

What is sexual wellbeing and why does it matter for public health?

“…Experience of ease in contemplation, communication, and enactments of sexuality and sex 57 Exploration of sexual identities and experiences; 58 associated with partner communication, trust, and forgiveness; 59 mindfulness in attending to sexual contexts 43,60 Comfort in sexual communication associated with improved sexual health behaviours such as contraceptive use; 61 ease in discussing sexual anatomy with a health professional; alleviating sexual guilt Feeling focused and experiencing a sense of flow during sexual activities; absence of unwanted thoughts during sexual activities; absence of shame about sexual thoughts and desires; feeling comfortable with your sexual identity and preferences; a pleasurable sex life…”

Mindfulness-Related Variables and Sexual/Relationship Satisfaction in People with Physical Disabilities

“…Acting with awareness pertains not only to the external experience but also to the internal experience of one's thoughts and feelings (i.e., as things are happening in the present moment). This facet has been pointed out in previous studies as a predictor of sexual outcomes, namely sexual satisfaction (Leavitt et al 2019). Being aware of one's sensations of pleasure and arousal seems particularly relevant to improve the subjective dimensions involved in sexual health.…”