Living a ‘sensual life‘ simply invites us to fully inhabit our bodies and the world around us.
Sensual living is not about exalting the body and indulging it in all it’s various pleasures — ie. food, sex, luxury, comfort etc.
In fact, a sensual life can involve a lot of sacrifice and discipline. If you want to keep your ‘temple’ in the best shape possible, you’ve got to stay active and feed it wholesome food.
The Spiritual Depth To A Sensual Life
There is much criticism out there of living through the body. There is also a lot of exaltation of living through the body. I believe very much in the body-mind-spirit connection within human beings.
So, it seems to me that our deep inner life can only be enriched and enhanced by how we filter the external experiences of this world.
Our intuition works by putting forth information as well as, gathering information through the body.
We are perceivers much more so than anything else. We take in a greater amount of information than we offer. Just look at the 5 senses. They are there to absorb information.
Yet, there are only a very few ways to express the information we glean from the world.
We can speak, write, move.
Yet, the amount of incoming data into our bodies is off the charts. We can not consciously process it all.
This is why it’s so important to keep our physical, mental, emotional and energetic bodies clear and flowing with energy.
We have so much information coming in and a limited number of ways to express and expel.
This is the challenge of life itself as well — and to live a sensual life, means being disciplined in what we take in and then moving with grace through this world.
Being in the moment and paying deliberate attention to our five senses is necessary to a sensual life.
This is not merely about indulgence. This is a mindfulness practice that deepens presence, reduces stress, and enriches everyday moments. Whether you are alone or with a spouse or partner.
(I’ve recorded a few meditations over the years. Find the playlist here on youtube or listen to the one below…)
A journey to a more sensual life begins with savoring. Although, it doesn’t necessarily mean ‘slowing down’.
Here’s a short list on things you can immediately add to live a more sensual life;
#1 – Start with touch, the most intimate sense.
Touch those you care about often and with care. Allow yourself to be touched as well by those you are close to. Make sure they are aware of How, Where and When you like to be touched. That’s important.
#2 –Surround yourself with textures that feel luxurious against your skin.
Silky sheets, plush cushions, fuzzy, warm cashmere sweaters. Take time to notice sensations—run your fingers over fabric, feel the warmth of sunlight on your skin, really taste your food. These simple acts ground you in the present and heighten bodily awareness.
#3 – Engage your sense of smell to evoke calm and desire.
Aromatherapy can transform routine into ritual. Light a scented candle. Put a few drops of essential oils in a diffuser during quiet evenings. Scents connect directly to memory and emotion. So, this sensual act can instantly shift our mood and invite sensuality.
#4 – Turn meals into ceremonies.
Savor each bite slowly, noticing flavors, textures, and temperatures. Share a decadent piece of dark chocolate or ripe fruit with someone special. Even a morning coffee can become a sensual act when you appreciate its aroma and warmth as you sip.
$5 – Create visually pleasing environments.
Filling your living space with soft lighting, fresh flowers and art that moves you. Watch a sunset. Gaze into a partner’s eyes during conversation. Simply observe the play of light on water. Beauty stimulates the senses and gives us a greater appreciation of living.
#6 – Finally, honor sound.
Curate playlists of soothing or stimulating music. Listen to the rustle of leaves. Enjoy the rhythm of your own breath. Listen to the sound of the ocean at the shore or water in a babbling brook. Become aware of the birds singing in trees around you. Sometime concentrating on the spaces between the sound is a way to go much more deeply into the experience of a sensual life.
In the end, living a sensual life, isn’t about perfection, it’s about intention.
Begin small; one sense at a time.
Over the weeks and months you’ll notice a heightened sense of joy, better self-awareness, and richer intimacy in relationships. You’ll notice small details more too. The world becomes more vibrant when you allow yourself to truly feel it.
Living a sensual life is ultimately a full, bodied experience. Go get ’em, tiger.
If you liked this you might also like these on sensual living…
The Erotic Massage Of Your Dreams!
Should You Try A Couples Massage — At The Ritz?
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