This week’s Sexy Friday blog focuses on a number of important topics, including menstruation, strengthening relationships, and how chronic illnesses and disability affect self-love, relationships and sexuality. There is a lot of valuable information packed into this 30-minute episode of Sex Talk with Kelly, so we definitely recommend checking out the full episode! Kelly invited some wonderful guests to join her for this episode, including Kristen Schultz, a sex educator, activist and writer, Stacey Jacobs, a sexual health education manager at Sexual Health Options, Resources & Education – SHORE Centre, and Bliss Counselling’s very own Tammy Benwell.

Kristen addresses the ways in which our education system has failed us with its lack of representation, explaining that the education we receive reflects a society that is solely abled, cisgendered, and reproductive focussed. In addition to these major concerns, Kristen explains how things become even more complicated for individuals with disabilities, or those suffering from illnesses. Kristen emphasizes the importance of conversations, “Be open. Open hearted and have open conversation”. We are so thankful for Kristen’s wealth of information, and willingness to share her own personal experience with chronic illness and sex. This is an important conversation that you will definitely learn so much from! Thanks, Kristen!

Kelly is then joined by Stacey, who addresses the importance of talking about menstruation and how to talk to kids about sex. She explains that it is important for schools and families to provide appropriate information about menstruation, and the need to discuss it in a positive light so as not to scare or confuse young people. “It is important for people to feel empowered by their bodies, not annoyed or frustrated”.

Addressing sex education, she explains that children model adult behaviour, and that it is important to be mindful of this and to model consent for your children by asking before you touch them, and reminding them to ask before they touch you. Additionally, it is important to be honest with children in an age appropriate manner. Lastly, she explains that it’s crucial to ask your children questions as well, and not to wait for them to ask you, because they may not.

Finally, Kelly is joined by Bliss Counselling therapist, Tammy Benwell to talk about the strategies you and your partner can implement to strengthen your bond. Tammy explains that your relationship therapist is your supporter, lean on them to prevent the problems from getting worse. Tammy provides both individual and relationship therapy at Bliss Counselling.

To watch the full episode, follow the link HERE!

 

Guest Information:

Kristen Schultz

Twitter: @chronicsexchat

Instagram: @chronic_self_love

Stacey Jacobs

Instagram: @shorecentrewr

Tammy Benwell, Bliss therapist