The genitals are sometimes considered the 'forbidden zone' or a great big hole where massage therapists skip over, you cover up in public, and you definitely don't touch unless you are in private. That all makes sense. We need to consider people's ability to consent to see or touch genitals, but this does make for a big gap in noticing or being with some of our most powerful parts of our bodies. We often tune them out.

We will continue to explore the genitals in more nuanced ways, but first, this is a simple practice in bringing awareness to your genitals. This practice that doesn't necessitate activating sexual arousal. You can do this practice inside or outside.

Start standing and connecting to the ground beneath you. Notice your breath. Notice the clothes you are wearing and how they feel on your skin.

Now bring your attention to your genitals. Notice what you notice. Can you sense temperature, sensation of your clothes/underwear, breath, movement.

Now continue to keep your attention on your genitals and take a little walk, either around the block or in your house. Continue to notice what you notice. Sense how being mindful of your genitals effects the rest of your body, your breath, your imagination. Feel what you feel.

If you get lost, you can always pause, place a hand(s) over your genitals, take a breath, and then keep walking when you feel connected.

When you feel complete, consider placing a hand on your genitals and offer whatever gratitude or kind words feels authentic.

Reflections

What feelings come up when you bring your attention to you genitals? What stories do you hold?

What's it like to bring this practice into your daily life, your work, your family?