Clinical sexologist Catriona Boffard discusses the most important sex organ, the brain: its role in arousal, why the mind and the body aren’t always on the same page, common misconceptions regarding sexual intimacy, and the importance of feeling safe. She clarifies the dual control model, false versus realistic expectations, and using your mind to heighten your sexual enjoyment. Sensitive content: intended for adult listeners.  

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In ep. 114 of the weekly podcast series Calm, Clear and Helpful, Catriona Boffard talks about

• how she came to work in the field of sexual health

• why many people find talking about sex challenging

• the brain as the control centre for sex

• the interaction between the body and the brain during sexual intimacy, and why our physical and mental responses may be at odds

• common misconceptions regarding the body-brain connection   

• which hormones are released during sexual arousal

• how the mind can influence your ability to get turned on (or off)

• whether fantasising during intimacy is “cheating”

• the role context plays during sex, especially regarding physical and emotional safety

• what the dual control model refers to, and instinctively pushing the brake or accelerator during sexual intimacy

• false expectations created by the media and movies

• how to keep your expectations realistic

• the role curiosity about your partner’s experience plays in a satisfying intimate relationship.  

In this episode Catriona mentions Prof. Elna McIntosh, Emily Nagoski and the series Sex Education on Netflix.

Scroll down for more info on Catriona and her work.

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 About Catriona, including contact details

Catriona Boffard is an accredited clinical sexologist, psychotherapist, sexuality researcher and speaker focusing on sexual behaviour, intimacy, relationships and well-being. She works from a biopsychosocial perspective, assessing and treating clients through an integrative approach which explores the physiological, psychological and social factors behind their concerns. Catriona is based in Cape Town.

Website: https://catrionaboffard.com/

Email: hello@catrionaboffard.com

Catriona’s “Asking for a friend” podcast: https://iono.fm/c/5758

Facebook: Catriona Boffard – Sexologist

LinkedIn: Catriona Boffard

Instagram: @sexologywithcatriona

Catriona’s course on the MyMastery E-learning platform provides an overview of sex, relationships and intimacy: https://mymastery.tv

 Here Dr. Elna Rudolph reveals ten rules for sexual etiquette.

Dr. Jireh Serfontein explains how women can deal with sexually transmitted infections, and any accompanying stigma or shame.

The free podcast series Calm, Clear & Helpful is available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Player FM and Iono.fm.

Music by Mart-Marie Snyman

Thumbnail image: Unsplash. Model used

Photograph of Catriona Boffard: supplied