As far as practices go, mindfulness and sex couldn’t be more different. One by its nature is deeply physical, whereas the other requires us to turn our attention inwards.

However, the two are intertwined and can be mutually beneficial when it comes to better understanding our own sexual wellbeing.

Sadly, though, studies would suggest that women still don’t feel supported emotionally or physically when it comes to the subject of sex – which in turn acts as a major barrier when trying to reframe our approach to intimacy.

New UK research conducted by meditation app Headspace and online community Peanut shows that a staggering 89% of women think the medical industry doesn’t take their sexual desires seriously. Meanwhile, 78% of women have experienced low sex drive, with over half (53%) believing that low sex drive remains a taboo topic within society.

Luckily, however, the narrative is finally starting to change.

“Research showed that 7 in 10 women would like better access to information that could improve their sex lives,” says Kate Moyle – host of The Sexual Wellness Sessions podcast.

“Sexual wellbeing has been left out of the conversation for too long, despite the fact that we know it plays a key role within our general wellness and, specifically, mental wellness.”

And, according to Moyle, accessing tools such as the new Women’s Collection from Headspace – which covers topics such as Sex And Relationships, Body And Health and Strength In Solidarity – is a step in the right direction, especially when it comes to linking mindfulness and sex.

We spoke to Moyle about how taking a more mindful approach can help change our relationship with sex and how it can benefit our sexual wellness in the long term.

Here’s what she said…

5 ways mindfulness can help change our relationship with sex