Bodysex https://www.dodsonandross.com/ en Bodysex Certification https://www.dodsonandross.com/bodysexcertification <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Bodysex Certification</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/106" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">Carlin Ross</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2022-08-03T13:29:17+00:00" title="Wednesday, August 3, 2022 - 13:29" class="datetime">Wed, 08/03/2022 - 13:29</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2022-05/goddess.jpg.webp?itok=nfQv_iUD" width="635" height="480" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>If you would like to <strong>start the certification process</strong>, please submit your <strong>application</strong> here<strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://bodysex.com/certification/">https://bodysex.com/certification/</a></strong></p> <p>Once we receive your completed application, we will review everything and reach out via email to schedule our first video meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>And if you have any additional questions about the process, you can send an email to <a href="mailto:laura@bodysex.comsubject=subject text">laura@bodysex.com</a></p> <p><strong>Bodysex Certification</strong>.&nbsp; We've started a Bodysex certification program for women who want to run their own Bodysex workshops - live and virtual. There is an active community of "Bodysex Leaders", monthly facilitator meetings, book clubs and social media groups to support your journey.&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/leaders/laurabogush">Laura Bogush</a>, Rosa Maria, and <a href="https://dodsonandross.com/leaders/celine-manon">Celine Manon</a> serve on the Betty Dodson Foundation Board of directors and run the certification program.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>You're required to take one workshop, a second workshop with other women seeking certification, and then write a thesis you'll defend.&nbsp; Your thesis statement will describe your own sex history, how your family dealt with masturbation, what you believe is wrong with how the culture handles sexuality and what you would do to change it.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>COVID&nbsp;UPDATE.&nbsp; </strong>All our live workshops are on hold until 2022.&nbsp; Our virtual Bodysex program counts as your first workshop.&nbsp; For your second workshop, you will be paired with another woman seeking certification with online sessions together with Carlin where you take each other through the rituals: education, genital show and tell, and the Rock n Roll orgasm technique.<br> <br> <strong>The total fee for certification is $4,000 - two virtual Bodysex session&nbsp;fees of $500.00 plus one last donation of $3,000.00. </strong></p> <p><strong>Mission:</strong><br> <br> Our goal is to certify women to hold their own Bodysex workshops so that the Betty Dodson method of self-love and sisterhood continues and expands to every country around the world.<br> <br> When Betty and I first got together, we had this vision of a world map with red lights being illuminated every time someone clicked on D&amp;R. Now we feel that those red lights represent women certified in the Betty Dodson method as each woman holds her own Bodysex workshops.<br> <br> We will train, certify, and support each woman as she holds these workshops. There will be a learning curve and we will be available for your questions and to give you our feedback. It will take time to build a name for yourself. We want you to be successful and to honor the Betty Dodson brand.<br> <br> The certification process will take one year to complete if you take a workshop in the Spring and a certification workshop in the Fall (or vice versa) and complete/present your thesis in a timely manner. It’s really up to you how long the process takes.<br> <br> <strong>Benefits:</strong><br> <br> Betty Dodson Brand: All certified members will be granted a license to use the “Betty Dodson” brand in marketing their workshops. Your workshops can be marketed as an official “Betty Dodson Bodysex Workshop”. You will also receive the vulva flower logo that is displayed here on the site for your own use.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> <br> Advertising: All certified members will be granted advertising space on D&amp;R.com to promote their workshops under “Bodysex”. Your ad will include a description/bio/pic of you and the upcoming dates of your workshop listed by region.<br> <br> Direct Communication: Carlin will be available by email and zoom with any questions you have during the roll out of your workshops.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> <br> Diploma: All certified members will receive a diploma signed by Betty Dodson and Carlin Ross.<br> <br> <strong>Requirements:</strong><br> <strong>&nbsp;</strong><br> <strong>I.&nbsp; Participation in two Bodysex Workshops or two virtual Bodysex programs</strong>. You must attend one regular Bodysex workshop and one workshop assembled for women seeking certification. Our virtual Bodysex program fulfills your workshop requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> <br> Several women have asked what qualifies as a financial hardship. Please email Carlin admin@dodsonandross.com with a description of your hardship but know that the following count:<br> <br> - being a single mom<br> - serving in the military<br> - raising a family living on one income<br> <br> <strong>There will be a final payment of $3,000 payable by installments if needed.</strong><br> <br> <strong>II.&nbsp; Sex Essay.</strong> You must submit a sex essay describing the following:<br> <br> • Your parent’s attitude towards sex<br> • Your religious upbringing<br> • Your first memory of masturbation<br> • Your first partner sex<br> • Your current sex life<br> <br> <strong>III. Interview</strong>.&nbsp; Once you submit your sex essay, you’ll have your first interview with us (in person or via skype).<br> <br> <strong>IV.&nbsp; Completion of Curriculum</strong>. You must read/listen/watch the following course materials:<br> <br> <strong>-All of Betty's articles on orgasm</strong>:</p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/sexfeature/first-time-orgasm">First Time Orgasm</a></p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/blogs/betty-dodson/2011/12/awakening-clitoris">Awakening the Clitoris</a></p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/blogs/carlin-ross/2013/02/bettys-rock-n-roll-orgasm-technique">Betty's Rock n Roll Orgasm Technique</a></p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/blogs/betty-dodson/2010/05/learn-new-orgasm-how-upgrade-your-masturbation-technique">Upgrading Your Masturbation Technique</a></p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/sexfeature/penetrating-your-vagina-first-time">Penetrating Your Vagina For the First Time</a></p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/blogs/betty-dodson/2014/10/womans-erection-needs-20-30-minutes-adequate-clitoral-stimulation">A Woman's Erection Needs 20-30 Minutes of Adequate Clitoral Stimulation</a></p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/articles/best-use-your-vibrator">How to Best Use Your Vibrator</a></p> <p><a href="https://dodsonandross.com/sexfeature/myth-vaginal-orgasm-anne-koedt">The Myth of the Vaginal Orgasm</a></p> <p><strong>-Betty’s memoir <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sex-Design-Betty-Dodson-Story-ebook/dp/B003MQNAQU">"Sex By Design"</a>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>-All audio/video <a href="https://dodsonandross.com/podcast">podcasts</a> on Bodysex.</strong><br> <br> <strong>-And the following books because we love them:</strong></p> <p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sex-One-Selfloving-Betty-Dodson-ebook/dp/B0064127LE">Sex for One</a><br> <br> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ethical-Slut-Practical-Relationships-Adventures/dp/1587613379/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1446121266&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=The+ethical+slut">The Ethical Slut</a><br> <br> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sex-Dawn-Stray-Modern-Relationships/dp/0061707813/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1446121302&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Sex+at+Dawn">Sex at Dawn</a><br> <br> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Buzz-Stimulating-History-Sex-Toy/dp/1681775433/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_t_0?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=6CMNPM2HA4V3A0XHEXFP">Buzz: The Stimulating History of the Sex Toy</a><br> <br> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Opening-Up-Creating-Sustaining-Relationships/dp/157344295X">Opening Up</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Come-You-Are-Surprising-Transform/dp/1476762090">Come As You Are</a></p> <p><a href="https://wheelofconsentbook.com/">The Art of Receiving and Giving: The Wheel of Consent</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Betty-Dodson-Bodysex-Basics-Carlin/dp/0578190729">Bodysex Basics</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Function-Orgasm-Sex-Economic-Biological-Discovery/dp/0374502048/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1446121376&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=The+Function+of+Orgasm">The Function of Orgasm</a> - this is a hard read...it's more about knowing about Reich's beliefs surrounding orgasm because he is the only man who influenced Betty's work.<br> <br> <strong>V. Thesis statement</strong> (it's just a long essay).&nbsp; You must study these materials and write your thesis that will be published online with your consent.&nbsp; You can write your thesis OR record your voice answering the questions if writing is an obstacle.<br> <br> Part 1 of your thesis will describe your process of becoming orgasmic and the consequences of sexual repression, more specifically, how the repression of childhood masturbation blocks orgasm.<br> <br> Part 2 of your thesis will describe your vision for healing human sexuality and how you would end sexual repression.<br> <br> This is a first person statement that should be roughly 10-15 pages in length. We’re not looking for you to cite research or third party sources (although you can use them as a compass for your work). We’re looking for you to share your own personal experience - what it’s like living in a sexually repressed culture and how you plan to change the world.<br> <br> You will defend your thesis (in person or via zoom). Think of this more as a conversation than an official presentation. We want to know about your world perspective and your goals.<br> <br> <strong>VI. Donation of $3,000 to the Betty Dodson Foundation.</strong></p> <p>We will conduct one final exit interview (in person or via zoom). You must be sex positive and have an understanding of group dynamics – we have to believe that you can lead a workshop.&nbsp; Then you will receive your diploma signed by Betty and Carlin and you can start running groups.<br> <br> <strong>Post-Certification:</strong> Upon receiving your certification, we’ll post your contact information on D&amp;R listing you as a workshop resource. For your first several groups, you’ll have your attendees send us an email describing their experience. This will help us better understand your skill level and what you need to work on.<br> <br> You will make mistakes and that’s OK. We live in a sexually repressed culture and realize you may experience some negative reviews. We understand. We will support you&nbsp;during this&nbsp;process of becoming a Bodysex facilitator.</p> <p>Some legalese:<br> <br> <strong>Revocation of Certification.</strong> We reserve the right to revoke your certification for the following reasons:<br> <br> • Inability to connect with other people<br> • Anger management issues<br> • Sex negativity<br> • Unclean space<br> • Not adhering to the Betty Dodson method and principles<br> • Antisocial behavior<br> • Multiple complaints from attendees<br> <br> You will receive notice in writing that your certification is under review. Then, you’ll submit your written response and we will issue our final determination. In the event your certification is revoked, you will cease advertising your services, we will delete your ad from D&amp;R, and you will return all certification materials.</p> <p><strong><span>Creating a Bodysex Space:</span></strong></p> <p>Your workshop space must be safe, warm, clean, and beautiful. You are creating a temple for female sexual expression. Here are the absolutes:</p> <p>You need to choose an assistant. It’s nearly impossible to run a workshop by yourself. Pick someone who’s sex positive (they love sex) and are organized.</p> <p>The floor must be carpeted. You can’t have women sitting naked on a hard wood floor. And laying down towels or yoga mats isn’t enough. There must be wall-to-wall carpeting or a large area rug so that every woman has carpet beneath her.</p> <p>Temperature: We use little space heaters in the winter months to warm up the room before a workshop. It can’t be too warm on Day 1. Make sure there aren’t any drafts in your space and the place is nice and toasty.</p> <p>NO MEN IN THE CIRCLE: You’ll get a ton of requests from men and husbands who want to join the circle. As soon as a man is present, everything changes. Women stop being honest and begin performing. Only women can take a Bodysex workshop.</p> <p>NO CAMERAS: Cameras always affect our spontaneity. Even if women agree to photos don’t take them. This is an intense emotional experience and consent can’t be freely given.</p> <p>All women entering the circle must be nude. Answer the door naked and ask them to remove their clothes right away. Don’t let them keep their bras on or wear a robe. It will break down the equality of the circle.</p> <p>All the barbells and vibrators used in the circle must be sterilized. I take the barbells out of their packaging and I put them in a pot of water on the stove and bring it to a boil. Then I shut off the stove, pour out the hot water, and fill the pot with cold water to cool off the barbells. Let them sit in the cold water for 10 minutes or so and they’ll be ready to go. Women get to keep the barbells.</p> <p>We do reuse the vibrators. After a workshop, I rub them down with a Clorox wipe and then a damp rag and store them in a clean box. Then, I do this process again right before a workshop and place them on the trays that sit alongside each person. The trays also hold a glass for water, a bottle of almond oil and a box of Kleenex.</p> <p>You’re going to have to purchase <a href="http://www.floorseating.com/BackJack-Regular-Chair-P1.aspx">back jacks</a> for the women to sit on during the workshop. You can’t have women sitting on the floor because they’re backs will ache. Place a towel over each back jack to avoid any staining. Pick up some small throw pillows to use for extra back support and the "pillow fuck" that takes place the second day.</p> <p>Have a large tray placed in the center of the circle and several candles. Betty always starts the workshop by lighting the candles. She prefers white to represent healing. It’s good idea to begin each group with the Breath of Fire (50 short belly breaths then two deep breaths followed by holding your breath for as long as it’s comfortable. Oxygen is energizing and it puts everyone more at ease</p> <p>We always provide water and snacks. I’ve cut up veggies and small sandwiches but no one eats them. The women prefer fruit (berries, pineapple, watermelon), and some sort of cookies with chocolate. During erotic recess on Day 2, I bring in a pitcher of water with the cookies and place them on a tray in the middle of the circle. After a few orgasms, it’s nice to roll up and nibble on a cookie and rehydrate.</p> <p>Pick up a freestanding <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Zadro-Swivel-Vanity-Mirror-Acyrlic/dp/B000RN6E9G/ref=sr_1_24_a_it?srs=2530825011&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1470241826&amp;sr=8-24&amp;keywords=vanity+mirror">mirror</a> with an 8 inch surface and lamp that can be aimed for genital show &amp; tell. You must sit next to the woman displaying her vulva so you can both look into the same mirror together. Bring her in close until your bodies touch. This is about non-sexual contact that is reassuring. This is about comfort and mothering.</p> <p>Keep copies of Betty’s anatomy diagrams and use them at the end of genital show &amp; tell so the women can gain a better understanding of their bodies. You don’t have to know everything but take them through the basics. And if you don’t know something don’t fake it. You can always ask us to clarify the material.</p> <p>Menstruation: You can have your period and take a workshop. Day 1 they can use a tampon or menstrual cup. Day 2 they can use a sea sponge during penetration with the barbell. I suggest picking up some and having them on site: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/eBubbles-Natural-Silk-Sea-Sponges/dp/B0008GRS60/re">http://www.amazon.com/eBubbles-Natural-Silk-Sea-Sponges/dp/B0008GRS60/re</a>...</p> <p>Pregnancy. We’ve had several pregnant women take workshops. It’s always kind of magical. Also women who've had a breast removed due to cancer experience a healing. All scars from any surgery are badges of honor.</p> <p><strong><span>Enrollment:</span></strong></p> <p>Social media is invaluable for promoting your workshops. You should have a facebook fan page as well as your personal account. You should also have a twitter account and blog about your work. And when you write about the groups it’s about your experience – don’t share personal things women have shared. It’s about your reflections. Always blog first person. If you write something, send me the link and I’ll promote it over all of our social media accounts.</p> <p>I recommend using paypal and have women make a down payment to reserve their spot in your workshop. That way you'll know they’re serious about showing up. You can use paypal for all your fees or accept the final monies in cash or check.</p> <p>I manage all my enrollment over email and create a new contact group for each Bodysex workshop so I can communicate directly with the women from each workshop. Gmail is great for all of this. I also write down their email addresses in a book so I have a hard copy in case something catastrophic happens. It always pays to be organized.</p> <p>I share my cell number with the women once they register and make their down payment. They need to know that if anything comes up they can contact you. I send out emails with all the information they need (date, location, time, price, my cell #) one month before the workshop, unless they’re traveling then I forward the address right away so they can make arrangements.</p> <p>Then I send out a group email two weeks and again one week before each workshop with the same information so they don’t need to dig through their emails to find anything. When I send my group emails, I send it directly to my email address and bcc the women. You can’t share their email address with anyone without express permission.</p> <p><strong><span>Holding the Space:</span></strong></p> <p>No one can teach you how to be a workshop leader. Holding the space is something that you’re going to learn with each workshop. Just remember that leaders model what they want from their group. Always begin the group share (how you feel about your body/orgasm) by going first. Be honest. Don’t over talk or attendees will also over talk.</p> <p>Set boundaries: I’ve seen Betty share and then before going around the circle announce, “I want to know how you feel about your body and your orgasm. I don’t want details about your partners. This is about your sexuality." Some women will focus on others to avoid talking first person about themselves.</p> <p>Keep the circle moving. Don’t be afraid to break in and end a woman’s share if she’s going on too long. You can also state from the beginning that you want to hear from each woman but that we only have a certain amount of time for each share. Depending on the size of the group, each woman’s share should be 5-10 minutes max. Genital show &amp; tell takes at least 2 or 2.5 hours, sometimes longer.It's OK to go overtime if necessary.</p> <p>If a woman starts to cry, acknowledge her, but don’t let her take control of the group. Betty’s best line is, “I hear your pain, but we’re here to explore pleasure so we must move on.” In over 25 years of holding groups, Betty has only asked 2 women to leave the circle because they were not ready to explore pleasure. They need to work with a therapist to deal with their sexual abuse issues.</p> <p>Since we started running groups again we haven’t had an issues with women needing to leave the workshop. I think that’s because they’re able to watch Betty Dodson’s Bodysex Workshop DVD, so they know what to expect when they sign up. It’s a good idea to ask attendees to watch the film before they book a space with you.</p> <p>Don’t hesitate to ask women to speak up during the group shares. Most women have been conditioned to be soft talkers and that includes you. Make sure you ground your own voice and project it when you run a group. When I was a new attorney, I would video tape myself to see how I looked/sounded in the courtroom. You should record your voice, play it back, and listen to how you sound. You are leading with your voice. Betty said she used a tape recorder to listen to her own voice and learned to drop down to lower register.</p> <p>Good posture is important when running a group. Sit tall and don’t slouch. It always helps to keep things playful. If there’s a moment to add some humor, do it. Laughter puts everyone at ease, including you. When we ran a group in Copenhagen, one of the women sitting down for genital show and tell noticed that she had some toilet paper on her labia. Betty smiled and asked, “Do you have a message?” Everyone laughed and later on several women “found” messages in their vulvas. No one was embarrassed and it became a unifying moment.</p> <p>Another great Betty moment was when she farted and announced, “Anyone who farts gets a $1.00.” You’re sitting naked on the floor for hours, displaying your vulva, and masturbating. Natural body processes will happen. Make it fun and laugh away any embarrassment.</p> <p><strong><span>Genital Show &amp; Tell:</span></strong></p> <p>Set up an area for genital show &amp; tell on carpeting and put down a clean towel. Always start by showing the group your own vulva. Make yourself vulnerable. Talk about your fears or concerns and show all the structures: clitoris, labia, pc muscle, and urethral opening. Be honest about how your relationship with your vulva.</p> <p>You’ll sit side-by-side with each woman looking into the same mirror. Don’t be afraid to get close with your bodies touching. It’s comforting to feel a body close to yours when you’re nervous. This is about maternal energy. You’re not a lover you’re a mother or big sister. This is non-sexual touch.</p> <p>Turn on the lamp and look at her vulva in the mirror TOGETHER. Always say something positive about her vulva immediately by making a complimentary statement. If you can’t think of anything, then say, "Oh, she’s beautiful.”</p> <p>Always begin with a vulva massage. Have her oil her hands and using long strokes, run them up and down her sex organ from bottoem to top, hand over hand. Next have her locate her clitoris and open her outer labia to view vestibule, the space between her inner lips where she can locate her urethral opening. It’s amazing how many women – even those who’ve given birth – have never known where they urinate from. Some thought it was the clitoris. The vaginal opening is rarely open. It sits at the bottom of her vulva and is different for every woman. In order to see it, she must penetrate herself first.</p> <p>Also, you can describe what vulva “style” she has - Gothic, Renaissance,Art Deco, Danish modern – based on Betty’s vulva sketches. The women really enjoy this moment. It gives them a point of reference for their vulva.</p> <p><strong>Bodysex is NAMING OWNING SHARING &amp; CELEBRATING</strong></p> <p>Take them through Betty’s anatomical diagrams that come from A New View of a Woman's Body. We’ve simplified the diagrams so only the main structures are labeled. The women love looking at the diagrams.</p> <p>The focus here is that the clitoris is a woman’s primary sex organ. The urethral sponge ie the g-spot is part of the internal clitoris. Some women enjoy having their urethral sponge stimulated by applying pressure to the ceiling of the vagina. Many also enjoy stimulation right at the vaginal opening because there are more nerve endings there. Once inside the vagina, most women enjoy the feeling of being “full”.</p> <p>Some women release fluid (female ejaculate) which is dilute urine with prostate fluid that amounts to no more than a teaspoon full. Some women squirt BUT this isn’t an orgasm. It's simply the release of ejaculate. The clitoris reigns supreme when it comes to female orgasms.</p> <p><strong><span>Reassemble in the Circle:</span></strong></p> <p>Genital show &amp; tell is an intense experience. Once we look at each other’s vulvas, we’re bonded in sisterhood. It’s good to reassemble in the circle and ask the group if anyone would like to share something. Have a nice relaxed group discussion before you break for the day.</p> <p>Most of the women will want to go out to dinner. Betty and I prefer to have dinner together and let the group go out alone. It’s good for the women to have time together and for the group leaders to share feedback before Day 2.</p> <p><span>Day 2 Group Share:</span></p> <p>Go around the circle and have each woman share how she’s feeling and what she did last night. You’ll notice that most of the women will say that they slept really well. Day 1 is a lot to process and it can knock you out. I see a physical change in the women’s faces from Day 1 to Day 2. They’ve experienced a huge release and connection with their bodies and each other. It’s always beautiful.</p> <p><strong><span>Betty’s Rock ‘n Roll Orgasm Demonstration:</span></strong></p> <p>Next you ask all the women to gather around you and your assistant who is your “stunt cunt” to demonstrate Betty’s Rock ‘n Roll orgasm technique. We used to simply explain the technique but women were confused. This kind of visual demonstration is giving women permission to look closely which further breaks down any shame.</p> <p>Then go through all the items on their tray. Have them turn on their vibrators and experience each setting. Next, ask the group to stand with their vibrators in hand. That way they will have a visual of each other. Demonstrate running their vibrators from the top of their heads down over their breasts to their clits. Betty likes to keep it all humorous. She's been known to play air guitar with her vibrator etc. Have them gyrate their hips doing bumps and grinds while they actively fuck their vibrators.</p> <p><strong><span>Erotic Recess:</span></strong></p> <p>Now it's time for everyone to spread out their towels so they can lie down on them. Next you can talk them through slow penetration with the barbell. Be sure they use almond oil before dong slow penetration while squeezing and releasing their PC muscle. Once the barbell is inserted, the weight will keep it in place.</p> <p>When you declare it's time for “erotic recess,” let them know it's not necessary to have an orgasm to enjoy the energy in the circle.This Takes performance anxiety out of the equation. Betty didn't have an orgasm when we initiated this new round of groups. At any point a group leader can stand to observe how everyone is doing. You can also pull up along side a women to help her by answering any concern she might have…encourage all the women to roll up and look at each other.</p> <p>After 40-50 minutes, take them through the orgasm positions we have named the pillow fuck &amp; Indian style. All the vibrators are put on top of the pillow so women can practice being on top. Indian style is sitting up holding the vibrator between her feet. Women love both of these positions because they can look at each other and make comments that creates laughter making sex fun. I like to keep a pitcher of water with fruit and cookies in the middle of the circle on a tray for anyone who wants to take an orgasm break. Conversations break out and that’s fine. This is about play, not performance.</p> <p>Be flexible with your timing. If everyone is still going, continue. Once most everyone has stopped, then declare the end of erotic recess. Use your best judgment.</p> <p><strong><span>Group Massage:</span></strong></p> <p>Everyone loves group massage. After we've all had orgasms, or watched each other have orgasms, we are all in a good mood. Begin by laying down two blankets and have the women use their towels to kneel on while they take turns sharing massage. Make sure the blankets are soft and clean. Play some ambient music or leave the room quiet. Massage is about non-sexual touch. The leader counts off the group randomly pointing at each woman calling out number one or two. It's best to let the numbers fall where they may. Don't try to put certain people together. These smaller groups will consist of 4 or 5 women massaging one person at a time.</p> <p>Each woman will be massaged for five minutes on each side. After the givers oil their hands, they hold them over the woman in the middle and you and your assistant say outloud: "The laying on of hands" and everyone touches the woman being massaged at the same time. Keep time and make sure everyone gets her massage.</p> <p>When group massage is over, women can wipe off the excess almond oil with their towels. Also, pick up some baby wipes to also be used.</p> <p><strong><span>Reassemble in the circle:</span></strong></p> <p>Request women sit on their towels in a small circle so they can hold hands – the right hand is down to send, and the left hand is up to receive the energy. Then ask everyone to make eye contact with each woman in the circle. Finally, each woman shares one word – something that they’re feeling or thinking that sums up their experience. The final share.</p> <p>Then, Betty has the women throw their hands up into the air and shake them to release all our orgasm energy into the world followed by whoops and shouts of joy and laughter.</p> <p><strong><span>Follow Up:</span></strong></p> <p>The women will most likely ask for each other’s email addresses. I ask their permission and, if it’s given, I send out a group email so everyone can contact each other. I also like to thank the group for coming to the workshop. For each of our workshops, women have started facebook fan pages to keep in touch. I always join them but rarely post but it’s good to keep the lines of communication open.</p> <p>It’s good to write up your experience after each group – what happened, any epiphanies, what you could have done better. Betty keeps a written record of each of her private sessions. I blog about each workshop. It’s good for your learning curve to reflect. Do it that night or the next day when it’s all fresh in your head.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Day 1 Timeline</strong><br> <strong>&nbsp;</strong><br> Group share (how do you feel about body/orgasm) = 2 hours<br> Bathroom/snack break = 15 minutes<br> Genital Show &amp; Tell = 2-2.5 hours<br> Bathroom/snack break = 15 minutes<br> Reassemble in the circle (ask if there is anything they want to share or any questions) = 15 minutes</p> <p><strong>Day 2 Timeline</strong></p> <p>Group share (what they did the previous eveninh or how they're feeling) = 30 minutes<br> Bathroom/snack break = 15 minutes<br> Demonstrate Rock 'n Roll orgasm/Q&amp;A = 30 minutes<br> Erotic Recess = 2-2.5 hours (I bring in snacks during last hour)<br> Group Massage = 1 hour<br> Final circle = 15 minutes</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><em>Set Up Expenses:</em></strong></p> <p>Several of our certified women have crowdsourced their certification fees and set up expenses.&nbsp; Here's a breakdown of the set up expenses:</p> <p><a href="http://www.floorseating.com/BackJack-Chairs-C1.aspx">Back Jacks</a> $34.95/each @ floorseating.com<br> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Zadro-Swivel-Vanity-Mirror-Acyrlic/dp/B000RN6E9G/ref=sr_1_24_a_it?srs=2530825011&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1470241826&amp;sr=8-24&amp;keywords=vanity+mirror">Pussy mirror</a> $19.99<br> Rechargeable Magic Wand $54.00/each (that's the wholesale price plus shipping)<br> Betty's Barbell $75.00/each (Betty insists on a 3 step polish which increases our cost)<br> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/solutions-Sweet-Almond-Moisturizing-ounce/dp/B0019LVFSU/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1461355703&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=almond+oil">Almond oil</a> $10.85/each</p> <p>Then you'll need to pick up some plastic trays, towels, and pillows (if you want to do the pillow fuck).&nbsp; I replace the towels once a year.&nbsp; Bed Bath &amp; Beyond is the best place to shop - and the pricing depends on the quality of towel you select.</p> <p>Assuming you're running groups with 10 women including yourself, your set up expenses would be roughly $1,800.00 - $2,000.00.&nbsp; You can always have the women bring their own vibrators and dildos.&nbsp; You don't have to use our barbell.&nbsp; I would suggest starting small but investing in the rechargeable magic wands and crowdsource as much as you can.</p> <p>And if you want to resell products like the barbell, Magic Wand, mirrors and almond oil on your blogs/sites I would suggest joining <a href="https://affiliate-program.amazon.com">Amazon Associates </a>(Amazon's affiliate program). Just join and post the code to your site - you'll make 10% on all purchases.</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--video--default.html.twig x paragraph--video.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig * paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/paragraph--video.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--video paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="load_video" data-url-id="psAVcUpshTs"> <img src="https://www.freeiconspng.com/uploads/youtube-play-logo-png-5.png" width="350" alt="Play Button Icon Png"/ class="btn-play-btn"> <img class="video_thumb" src="http://i3.ytimg.com/vipsAVcUpshTs/hqdefault.jpg" style="cursor:pointer"/> </div> <div 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</div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-tags--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-tags.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-tags.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cloud Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/726" hreflang="en">Betty&#039;s barbell</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/691" hreflang="en">clitoris</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/976" hreflang="en">Goop</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/981" hreflang="en">Gwyneth Paltrow</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/931" hreflang="en">sex coach</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/636" hreflang="en">vulva</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Wed, 03 Aug 2022 13:29:17 +0000 Carlin Ross 186 at https://www.dodsonandross.com https://www.dodsonandross.com/bodysexcertification#comments Circles of Women are Powerful, Healing Spaces https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/circles-women-are-powerful-healing-spaces <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Circles of Women are Powerful, Healing Spaces</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/106" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">Carlin Ross</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2024-03-03T14:39:51+00:00" title="Sunday, March 3, 2024 - 14:39" class="datetime">Sun, 03/03/2024 - 14:39</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2024-03/img_8454.jpg.webp?itok=vmzb4BJe" width="796" height="410" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>These past few months have been hard.<span>&nbsp; </span>I want to blame it on perimenopause.<span>&nbsp; </span>I want to disconnect from my body, disassociate from the flight response building in my limbs.<span>&nbsp;</span>I think that’s why we scrape orgasm off our plate: it allows us to live without feeling, live without outrage. Yesterday, I spent the early morning surfing orgasm waves and connecting to my anger.</p><p>As I wade through my newsfeed, I can’t believe what I’m reading.<span>&nbsp; </span>Women forced to carry dead fetuses to term at the risk of their lives and later fertility.<span>&nbsp; </span>Calls to limit women’s ability to cross state lines to receive healthcare.<span>&nbsp; </span>Doctors fearing criminal charges for providing miscarriage support.<span>&nbsp; </span>Women facing civil lawsuits for helping friends leave abusive marriages and end unwanted pregnancies.<span>&nbsp; </span>Laws prohibiting divorce if you’re pregnant…even in cases of domestic violence.<span>&nbsp; </span>Where the fuck are we living?</p><p>It's like déjà vu because I lived this before.<span>&nbsp; </span>I grew up in a Christian fundamentalist home where women and girls had no voice but were merely property of their husbands and fathers.<span>&nbsp; </span>No abortion, no birth control, no choice in marriage…then it progressed to limits on education and working outside the home.<span>&nbsp; </span>Girls couldn’t wear pants or listen to popular music.<span>&nbsp; </span>I remember getting in trouble for stealing my friend’s library card and reading “secular” books that were later burned.</p><p>Images of the women and girls I witnessed abused and denied flood my mind.<span>&nbsp; </span>Some simply went numb.<span>&nbsp; </span>Others had mental breakdowns.<span>&nbsp; </span>One women’s husband had her lobotomized so he could marry the babysitter.<span>&nbsp; </span>I will never forget how kind she was – how she lost her children and her home and her mental capacity all in the name of male gratification.<span>&nbsp;</span>Eating disorders were common yet their suffering was ignored. I couldn’t turn away.<span>&nbsp; </span>I saw them.<span>&nbsp; </span>I took on their pain and used it to fight for my education, leave my family, and head out on my own.<span>&nbsp;</span></p><p>What I learned is that authoritarianism starts with the desire to control women’s bodies. Violence at its core is rooted in the repression of female sexuality.&nbsp;<span>&nbsp;</span></p><p>I got out and found my way to Betty Dodson.<span>&nbsp; </span>Bodysex was the missing piece.<span>&nbsp; </span>I needed the communion of women.<span>&nbsp; </span>I needed to see them and be seen by them, to share my truth and witness theirs.<span>&nbsp; </span>I remember my first genital show and tell like it was yesterday.<span>&nbsp; </span>In a few moments, I felt connected to every woman in the room. Erotic recess opened-up something I’d never experienced: sharing sex energy on my own terms for my own pleasure completely supported by each woman in the space. It was pure joy and it was fun.<span>&nbsp; </span>Thank you, Betty.</p><p>Circles of women are powerful, healing spaces. I’m so looking forward to our <a href="https://bodysex.com/workshop-retreat/">next workshop in May.</a> For four days, we’ll be on the mountain surrounded by nature and the colors of Tibet exploring our bodies with courage and love. Holding the space for women to heal is my fuck you to the insanity circling around us.</p><p>Where the next election takes us remains to be seen. All I know is that I believe in women. No matter what we face we can always reach down, hug our vulva, and take an orgasm. That may be the most revolutionary, feminist act we can ever perform.</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-tags--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-tags.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-tags.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cloud Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/701" hreflang="en">feminism</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Sun, 03 Mar 2024 14:39:51 +0000 Carlin Ross 8190 at https://www.dodsonandross.com https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/circles-women-are-powerful-healing-spaces#comments Bodysex Takes Everything You Have https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/bodysex-takes-everything-you-have <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Bodysex Takes Everything You Have </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/106" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">Carlin Ross</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2023-10-22T14:41:54+00:00" title="Sunday, October 22, 2023 - 14:41" class="datetime">Sun, 10/22/2023 - 14:41</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2023-10/img_1379.jpeg.webp?itok=1YBU2zaL" width="2957" height="1980" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><span><span>As we planned our last Bodysex retreat, I signed the largest deal of my life.&nbsp; It felt just like Goop: I was profoundly uncomfortable, second-guessing everything yet clear that I would move forward.&nbsp; I couldn’t miss the opportunity to represent Betty’s message of self-love and independent because I was comfortable with my life.&nbsp; I found the courage, bit the bullet, and signed my name on the dotted line. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Sometimes we take on challenges intellectually but, the body lags behind, and we experience the physical manifestation of stress.&nbsp; Mine took the form of a six-month bout of tinnitus.&nbsp; My ears were ringing 24/7.&nbsp; I went to drs, did acupuncture, took daily naps, stopped drinking alcohol, upped my masturbation, dimmed lights – nothing worked.&nbsp; Gradually, I learned to live with it.&nbsp; If I slept 10 hours in a row and limited any loud sounds, I could get through the day.&nbsp; This was my new normal.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>I didn’t worry about my ears and the retreat until I was in the car headed up to Menla.&nbsp; What if my ears got worse?&nbsp; What if I couldn’t handle the music or chatter or my amplified voice on the microphone?&nbsp; My chest tightened.&nbsp; I decided to take a deep breath and channel Betty: the goddess would provide.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>As we drove up the mountain, all the fluid in my ears drained out at once.&nbsp; I had imagined this moment. I would psych myself up for client sessions by visualizing my ears clearing in one swoosh.&nbsp; It would be immediate – and it was.&nbsp; Menla has always been held as sacred land by the local Native American tribes. It was hit by an asteroid so there’s 1% less gravitational pull when you’re on the mountain.&nbsp; Today, its a Dalai-Lama property devoted to healing: healing for the women coming to experience their first Bodysex workshop and healing for me as their guide. The land supports the work.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>We had two groups of 30 women.&nbsp; I met virtual clients for the first time.&nbsp; We flipped the format so that we had 12 assistants, women who were certified and seeking certification.&nbsp; It was so good to reconnect with the sisterhood and watch them support the women…learn the philosophy…hone Bodysex as an artform.&nbsp; It felt like coming home.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>During genital show and tell, I was confronted with a completely new challenge.&nbsp; I think that’s why I’m so drawn to the work: you’re never done learning.&nbsp; It takes everything you have and the right response flows from you.&nbsp; I didn’t “think” anything – I felt it.&nbsp; I knew instinctively how to hold the space.&nbsp; When you guide a woman without judgment or control, that right step presents itself: her needs are like a vibration.&nbsp; If you’re listening, you can hear it quite clearly.&nbsp; Putting down your ego and attuning to another is life changing.&nbsp; I will never forget the experience.&nbsp; It felt like magic.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Being at Menla is such an immersive experience.&nbsp; There are no tvs in the rooms, cell service is spotty, and women take hikes and enjoy meals between sessions.&nbsp; I love all the Tibetan colors that run through the property: saffron…orange…deep red…bold blue…sage green…..gold.&nbsp; Then there’s the art in the shrine room where we hold erotic recess.&nbsp; It’s a feast for the eyes and the soul.&nbsp; Watching the assistants hold space during breaks, supporting the women in each moment fed my soul.&nbsp; Betty would be so happy, so proud.</span></span></p> <img alt="Carlin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c2727fb-4771-4ef8-9263-de1a1a13b6e2" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG_1376.jpeg" class="align-center" width="3088" height="2316" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span><span>Something shifted during the retreat.&nbsp; I could be at Menla, run a circle, and share Betty stories without tearing up.&nbsp; I assumed Betty’s role, her place without grief.&nbsp; Her memory and the loss I feel has become a treasured part of my life.&nbsp; Something that inspires me and leads me forward.&nbsp; I’m grateful for the bond we had and how much time we spent together.&nbsp; I was her longest relationship.&nbsp; Seeing her off the planet was a privilege.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>We have selected dates for our 2024 workshops – there will be two: </span></span><span><span>May 6-9 and&nbsp;</span></span><span><span>October 14-17</span></span></p> <p><span><span>For more information, click this link:&nbsp;<a href="https://bodysex.com/workshop-retreat/">https://bodysex.com/workshop-retreat/</a></span></span></p> <p><span><span>We hope to see you in the circle.</span></span></p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-tags--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-tags.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-tags.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cloud Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/676" hreflang="en">erotic recess</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/731" hreflang="en">genital show and tell</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Sun, 22 Oct 2023 14:41:54 +0000 Carlin Ross 8189 at https://www.dodsonandross.com https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/bodysex-takes-everything-you-have#comments It was the Beginning of My It's Never Too Late https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/it-was-beginning-my-its-never-too-late <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">It was the Beginning of My It&#039;s Never Too Late</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/39981" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">FGWelson</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2023-10-11T14:21:55+00:00" title="Wednesday, October 11, 2023 - 14:21" class="datetime">Wed, 10/11/2023 - 14:21</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2023-10/screen_shot_2023-10-11_at_10.28.34_am_0.png.webp?itok=X_AElrCe" width="630" height="409" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>I attended the second to last workshop that Betty and Carlin held in November 2019, not fully understanding until later that it was the beginning of my it's never too late, nontraditional, slowly unfolding, challenging, exciting journey to understanding and being comfortable with my body and my sexuality through recognizing and undoing the layers of guilt, shame, trauma, fear, and inadequacy that undermined it.</p><p>I was raised in a traditional, not sex positive, middle-class household in the late 40’s-50’s, believing that I was fat, unattractive, not enough or good enough, and undeserving. My partner of forty years was incredibly supportive and willing to do whatever he could to help me, and sex was good, although I was seldom able to let go fully. It took to my early seventies, four years after he died, for me to decide that maybe I really did want to figure out this sex/orgasm thing. With much hesitation and mixed feelings, I began researching options to accomplish that. I checked out sex therapy, partner surrogates, sex workers, and, eventually, found Dodson and Ross. I thought, perhaps, a Bodysex workshop might be a good place to start – maybe . . . . . . .</p><p>It took several phone conversations with Carlin before I enrolled in a workshop and booked a room in New York, still nervous about my decision to attend. I felt more trepidation than excitement as I walked through the doors of Betty’s apartment building, but walk through them I did.</p><p>I left that workshop with very mixed feelings. On one hand, I was excited and hopeful. I was surprised by how easy and comfortable it was to be naked with a group of women, a new experience for me, and how empowering, supportive, and connecting our sharing was. In attendance were several Bodysex facilitators and sex therapists, and most of the women, certainly the most vocal and dominant ones, were much more experienced and in touch with their bodies, their sexuality, and their orgasms than was I. Despite that, I was hesitantly determined and followed up with some individual remote work with Carlin.</p><p>I knew that Bodysex was making a difference for me as I was slowly able to start opening myself up to new possibilities. I also realized that, while I did not love my body all the time, I no longer hated it all the time. I was also beginning, very gradually, to feel more confident in general and to act on that confidence. In the first six months after that workshop, I got a tattoo and I shaved my head, two things I had thought about often, but was never confident enough to do. The other thing that happened was that, without thinking about it or working at it, I was doing significantly less emotional eating.</p><p>I began to understand that the work of Bodysex, while focusing on providing women with the tools to get in touch with and take control of our own pleasure, was much more. Accessing our sexuality and the power that goes with it also enables us to own our power in much broader ways. Betty’s directive to “run the fuck” is not limited to the sexual realm.</p><p>Working remotely, Carlin guided me through the rock and roll technique several times before I was able both to fully recognize and to own my orgasm. I felt a very wide range of emotions: I was excited, overwhelmed, exhilarated, unbelieving, and aware of the start of some internal shifts that felt new and different and scary. I opened a bottle of champagne and my bald, tattooed, orgasmic, changing self offered a champagne toast to self-pleasure, self-love, and the empowerment of women; to Betty, Carlin, and the Bodysex sisterhood; to undoing generational trauma; to a better world; and, yes, to myself.</p><p>However, it was not an immediate or total change. Much as I wanted to feel okay about getting to know my body better and allowing myself to experience and enjoy pleasure, it has been challenging to the many years of believing that was not okay. While it has not happen quickly or easily, it is happening. As I began to allow myself that space and to venture outside my comfort zone, I began to believe that maybe I do deserve to feel good, to find pleasure, and to love my body. My own excursion into this area of self-knowledge has been exciting, scary, and gradual. It is an ongoing, challenging, and exhilarating journey.</p><p>There are days when I look in the mirror and wonder, “Who is this person?” Change is often difficult and scary, but it can also be amazing and liberating, AND we are never too old to embrace it. Bodysex has opened some major and very unanticipated changes for me. I look forward to seeing where it takes me and how I am able to open possibilities to change for other women, especially women like me.</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Wed, 11 Oct 2023 14:21:55 +0000 FGWelson 8187 at https://www.dodsonandross.com https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/it-was-beginning-my-its-never-too-late#comments I Had Followed My Heart and Found My Purpose in Life https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/i-had-followed-my-heart-and-found-my-purpose-life <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">I Had Followed My Heart and Found My Purpose in Life</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/131976" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">Lakota</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2023-10-11T13:10:55+00:00" title="Wednesday, October 11, 2023 - 13:10" class="datetime">Wed, 10/11/2023 - 13:10</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2023-10/img_2277-768x1024.jpeg.webp?itok=yBYabsI5" width="764" height="755" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>I don’t believe that ones true calling or life purpose is always immediately known, but rather something that resonates subtly in the background like distant echos. Throughout life there may be persistent signs or feelings that point toward ones purpose, and over time, if we really take the time to listen and follow, the echos become clearer and more pronounced, guiding a person to their true path.</p> <p>As I reflect on my 32 years of life I can recall so many moments filled with small signs and subtle hints, the echos of my purpose. Some were easier to hear and pay attention to at times than others, but I just kept listening and following them. Little did I know that my second Bodysex workshop would be the profound and transformative revelation that all the signs and hints had been leading me to.</p> <p>Pulling up to the gates of Menla I could feel peace ease into my veins. My last circle I was a participant, and this one I would be an assistant, I was excited and I was also terrified. Afraid that I would do something wrong when holding space for a woman, or not know what to do in the moment. I was having such a hard time trusting in my ability to see and read someones body and the signs of their pleasure and orgasm. To ward those fears off I kept busy and went through the motions of set up, meals and socializing.</p> <p>Since I would be facilitating my own circles after this workshop I intently focused on how both Carlin and Laura handled each ritual in their circles as well as how they approached bumps along the way. I needed and wanted to absorb as much as I possibly could from them in these moments. I took notes in my bed every single night so things would stay fresh in my mind to look back on.</p> <p>It was finally time for erotic recess, the part I was the most nervous for. As I opened the door for each woman to enter, I noticed my worries creep up on me and decided to focus on me first. The best way to ease my own anxieties and fears was with pleasure. Walking into the circle, I sat down and took a big deep breath in.</p> <p>Carlin began guiding everyone through a nice easy warm up with the vibrator to help facilitate easier penetration. As the minutes passed, I couldn’t stop my eyes from darting to the shiny silver dildo on my tray. I wanted penetration so badly, but it wasn’t time yet. Carlin hadn’t started penetrative instruction yet, but I kept glancing over and telling myself ‘no’ even though it was exactly what I wanted.&nbsp;</p> <p>After about another minute of craving penetration, I reminded myself of something Carlin tells women often, “You know your body best, listen to what it wants and honor it” so I did. I grabbed the heavy shiny dildo and went for penetration. Instantly I felt so proud that I&nbsp;<strong><em>knew</em></strong>&nbsp;what I wanted&nbsp;<strong>a<em>nd</em></strong>&nbsp;gave it to myself. The orgasm that followed, affirmed that&nbsp;<strong><em>I</em></strong>&nbsp;was in charge of&nbsp;<strong><em>my</em></strong>&nbsp;pleasure.</p> <p>I have never sat between a naked woman’s legs before, much less watch her body for pleasure and potentially orgasm. I slowly sat up from my own orgasm induced afterglow and gazed around the room while hugging and caressing my own body. There was a woman who looked like she could use some supportive company. She welcomed me into her space and I sat down between her legs just like I’d watched Betty do in videos, and Carlin and Laura do in person. Despite her intense emotions I had a huge wave of calm wash over me as she opened up to me about her worries, fears and struggles.</p> <p>As I listened I felt wave after wave of goosebumps, a personal sign to me that I’m doing something important, in this case important&nbsp;<em>and</em>&nbsp;sacred. I held space for all her emotions and then directed her focus back to her body and her pleasure. It was unreal, just like Carlin and Laura had said, after a few moments I could read the signs of pleasure in her body. I saw her lips and jaw relax, I saw her breath deepening, her hips moving more, and vulva blood flow increasing. It was magical to see the body slowly take over and at the same time fascinating to see how much control the mind could assert over the body at any given point. I felt so fully present sitting with this woman and witnessing her body and her pleasure.</p> <p>Immediately after supporting her I felt so sure that when I dived into Bodysex some 9 months ago, I had followed my heart and found my purpose in life. I never feel so at home as when I’m holding the space that gives women permission to feel pleasure in their bodies. My own body doesn’t exist in those moments, I could sit for hours if a woman needed it, my entire being saturated with patience and space.</p> <p>Being that it was my first time assisting, it was no surprise the self doubts rolled in shortly after erotic recess wrapped up. Worry that I could have done better, or that I’d done something wrong was very real. I wish that I would have journaled about the emotions that showed up when I first noticed them. Unfortunately I didn’t do any self processing this time and things sort of stacked up to a point where emotionally I had to let everything out and have a good cry. Not only did the sisterhood of Bodysex women know how to support participants but they knew how to support leaders as well. I was surrounded by women who saw my tears and gave it to me straight, they didn’t sugar coat anything, they reassured my skillset and gave me tips for next time. I felt seen, respected, and comforted.</p> <p>This time when I left Menla, I departed confidant in my abilities. I knew wholeheartedly that my purpose was to hold this space for women, helping them learn about their bodies and their pleasure while bearing witness to their meaningful experiences. Deep within me, I had always sensed something resonating during specific moments, a subtle tug when certain words were spoken. This calling, these echos of purpose, had silently and sometimes very loudly beckoned me, urging me to listen, trying to capture my soul’s attention.</p> <p>So many of those times I had been too distracted, fearful, or busy to truly head its call. It was during my first circle as a participant that I glimpsed this core aspect of myself, as if I had inches closer to where these echos resonated more clearly. Yet, it was only after&nbsp;<em>supporting</em>&nbsp;women in my second Bodysex circle that I could peel back the layers and discover, rooted at the deepest parts of my being, lay the essence of Bodysex-an unspoken calling coming from within that had been there all along.</p> <p>Lakota's site: <a href="https://bodysexmichigan.com/">bodysexmichigan.com</a></p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-tags--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-tags.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-tags.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cloud Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/701" hreflang="en">feminism</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Wed, 11 Oct 2023 13:10:55 +0000 Lakota 8185 at https://www.dodsonandross.com https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/i-had-followed-my-heart-and-found-my-purpose-life#comments Bodysex was My Way Home https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/bodysex-was-my-way-home <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Bodysex was My Way Home</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/100386" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">Jessica Adams</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2023-09-30T13:34:30+00:00" title="Saturday, September 30, 2023 - 13:34" class="datetime">Sat, 09/30/2023 - 13:34</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field 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'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><span><span><span>“I did not come. Again. Geez, how can this be so difficult. I used to like sex –&nbsp;right!? In fact, I have no idea. Maybe I just liked the idea of sex. Back in the day. Before three kids and a decade of marriage. For some reason, orgasm is suddenly more important than ever. Maybe, just maybe, <em>I</em> am more important to myself than ever. I will figure this out. I have to figure this one out …”</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>To this day, I remember these kinds of conversations I had with myself clearly. I was desperate. In search of something without knowing what I was looking for or where to find it, but I did not give up … until the day a friend told me about Betty Dodson and Carlin Ross. 24 hours later I had not only gained hope from watching the episode on goop but had found out all there was to know about who these incredible women were and what their work was all about. Sadly, I never got to meet Betty in person –&nbsp;she had passed 2 months before I found her – but was very excited to find out that Carlin had taken the work online due to the lockdown/pandemic. I instantly knew that this was it. The answer to all the frustrating conversations I had had with myself was called ‘Virtual Bodysex Workshop’. My life was about to change forever. </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>Our first session was enlightening as much as it was frustrating. I was angry at the world for the lack of information I had been given. For crippling me all these years. For having blinded me for what was right in front of my eyes. The rage I was feeling was as overwhelming as the joyful appreciation for having found what felt like the ultimate, divine, feminine revelation. Tears of anger were mixed with those of relief, gratitude, and pure happiness. I had found my way home. Home to myself. Home to my pleasure. </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>‘I am nervous’, is what I said as we started genital show &amp; tell. I remember the two glasses of wine I drank before the session, followed by lots of water because of course I wanted to be as sober as I could be for the experience … I have to giggle remembering that all it did was send me to the toilet thrice before we could get started. Once I was looking at my own vulva –&nbsp;really, truly looking at it for the first time –&nbsp;I was flabbergasted. How was it possible that so many people had already seen what I was truly seeing for the first time? How was I still entangled in all these structures I had been trying to break out of for so many years? I remember holding my breath. Feeling as if my universe had stopped moving for just a split second, just to then give me a little push in the right direction. The direction of pleasure. My direction home. </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>It was almost a year later that I decided to have nude photos of myself taken on the beach in Cape Town –&nbsp;my happiest of happy places. ‘I am nervous’, is what I told the photographer as we drove towards the beach, leaving the sleeping city behind us, ‘I have never done anything like this before.’ ‘Luckily I have’, he said smiling, putting me at ease. Twenty minutes later, I was lying naked in the sand, the rising sun in my eyes, the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean in my ears, with tears running wild and free. Happy tears. Grateful tears. Tears of true belonging. It was in that moment that I understood I had never been nervous. Not once since I had found Bodysex. I thought I was. Had to be. Of course, I had to be, exposing myself like this. In front of others, in front of myself. But the truth is that deep inside there was this feeling of calm. Of truth. Of home. My home. It had been there all along.&nbsp; </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>So, it felt natural when I said yes to my graphic designer when he first presented the idea of putting my naked butt on the landing page of my website. Much thought had gone into what I wanted that page to say. Feel like. Be like. For myself as well as to others. &nbsp;Sharing my nudity was a big deal as much as it was not. I often tell my kids that ‘It is just an ass. Not more and not less. We all have one.’ and by the time my page went online, that is truly how I felt. But of course, there is more to it. A lot more. More than my naked bottom, I am sharing one of <em>the</em> most intimate moments I have ever experienced with myself. And though the world out there does not know this, it is essential for me. For I am doing this on my own terms only. Since that first time I sat in the virtual room with Carlin, the moment I actively chose to allow pleasure into my life, I got to do life on my own terms. Make some pretty big decisions …</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>And so, it feels like a moment of closure as I am about to pack up our household and move my family down south –&nbsp;to the place that has and probably always will be my true soul’s home. In just a few weeks, I will be sitting on that sandy beach again, grateful for having been afforded to walk the path of pleasure. For having had the opportunity to turn shame into pride and lack into fulfillment. For finally having the sex I always wanted to have. And for having found me along the way. This, I know, is bliss. </span></span></span></p> <p>If you are interested in joining me for a sensual pleasure retreat in Cape Town, South Africa, or don’t want to miss any of the other upcoming news, make sure to sign up for my <a href="https://www.iscarosa.com/newsletter">newsletter</a>. Dates, details and a few other juicy matters will be announced soon.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/painful-penetration" hreflang="en">Painful Penetration</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Sat, 30 Sep 2023 13:34:30 +0000 Jessica Adams 8184 at https://www.dodsonandross.com https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/bodysex-was-my-way-home#comments Anything I Do to Any Part of My Body will be Done Solely for MY PLEASURE https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/anything-i-do-any-part-my-body-will-be-done-solely-my-pleasure <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Anything I Do to Any Part of My Body will be Done Solely for MY PLEASURE</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/13276" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">ToshPatterson</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2023-09-29T12:56:10+00:00" title="Friday, September 29, 2023 - 12:56" class="datetime">Fri, 09/29/2023 - 12:56</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2023-09/tosh1.png.webp?itok=YUf1O8uJ" width="1080" height="1080" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><span><span><span><span><span><span>I am training to become a Bodsex Leader. This summer I attended the Bodysex workshop, as an assistant, to complete part of the certification process. Before arriving at the workshop, I had a serious case of nerves about maneuvering around my large goddess belly while sitting in the circle. There’s a part of me that wants to be thinner than I am because I believe sex educators should look a certain way. Thankfully Laura reminded me to let go of that thought and show up in the circle proudly, regardless of my size.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span><span>For the June workshop I traveled from my home in Playa del Carmen, Mexico to New York with a friend who I invited to experience a Bodysex Circle. We landed at LaGuardia airport, picked up a rental car, and enjoyed a scenic drive to Menla - a retreat center in Upstate New York.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span><span>The drive to Menla was absolutely gorgeous because the property is nestled deep in the Catskill Mountains so there are tons of creeks and rivers along the way. We stopped a few times to take in all of nature’s beauty and, of course, for selfies. When we arrived at Menla, my friend and I walked up to a cabin that faced a pristine mountain forest; we shared a cozy room.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span><span>After unloading the car and unpacking bags, I gathered with all the assistant facilitators by the fireplace in the main cabin. Everyone hugged and talked. Then we discussed workshop logistics and started beautifying it for participants </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><em><span>(think soft blankets, vibrators, lube, and so much more!)</span></em></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span>. Once the room was set-up, I had the rest of the day to explore the property and connect with others. I’m a spa connoisseur (lol) so I had to enjoy two treatments at Dewa Spa right on Menla’s property. It was the perfect way to end a long travel day.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <img alt="Tosh and Regine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c91ec2b5-6449-4d34-b7e8-6407ef11849b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/1.png" class="align-center" width="1080" height="1080" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span><span><span><strong><span><span>TOSH’S BODYSEX EXPERIENCE</span></span></strong></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span><span>Retreat participants arrived the next day. The Bodysex experience kicked off with happy hour mingling followed by dinner. After dinner everyone entered a classroom where Carlin and Laura officially welcomed participants and began teaching pleasure anatomy; I always love learning about the female model of sexual response and I wish I knew this in my 20s.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span><span>For the next two days 28 women (divided into 2 groups of 14) gathered in Bodysex Circles and practiced four rituals.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><strong><span><span>GROUP SHARE</span></span></strong></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span> is the first ritual where each woman openly shared her relationship with her body and orgasm. I felt a piece of myself in each woman as we went around the circle and answered the questions, </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><em><span>"how do you feel about your body"</span></em></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span> and </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><em><span>"how do you feel about your orgasm."</span></em></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span>&nbsp; I shared my sadness about the way I plucked, waxed, and treated my vulva over the years. I grappled with the realization and sadness that I maintained a vulva grooming routine that was more about pleasing men than pleasing myself. In recent years I established a boundary that anything I do, to any part of my body, will be done solely for MY PLEASURE, not for the male gaze/attention. Having this perspective, at this stage in life feels good, but I also have so much compassion for my 20/30 year old self who didn’t know or didn’t feel confident enough to OPT OUT and say</span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><em><span> “My body, my rules. Fuck your standard.”</span></em></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span><span>Then we moved into the second ritual, </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><strong><span><span>GENITAL SHOW &amp; TELL. </span></span></strong></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span>I have a large goddess belly so I was fretting about leading and being able to find a comfortable position for this ritual. I told Laura my concern and she invited me to practice positioning myself, which settled my nerves. I maneuvered around my belly without any issue and displayed my vulva. I felt so liberated and powerful, sitting in the circle, examining my own sex organ in a mirror with a light. It was such a healing moment as I fully RECLAIMED the sacredness and power of my body. All of my shame about my belly, my size, and my feelings of not enoughness faded away.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><strong><span><span>EROTIC RECESS</span></span></strong></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span> is the third ritual that happened on the second retreat day. Carlin taught specific techniques that we practiced together. I loved being surrounded with female sex positive energy. I explored my body, played with Bodysex techniques, and had some yummy orgasms. I listened to the sexy moans in the room and loved on my body. I enjoyed being alone but together with the group. When I wasn’t pleasuring, I took breaks during erotic recess and ate DELICIOUS chocolate dipped apricots! Plus, as a leader in training, I offered support to other women in finding their pleasure. It felt natural to sit with women and discuss sex. I imagine this is how it was in ancient, tribal days when women shared their sexual knowledge with each other.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span><span>We finished the weekend with the final ritual </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><strong><span><span>NON-SEXUAL GROUP BACK MASSAGE</span></span></strong></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span>. It was a wonderful experience! I laid face down on a velvet blanket and four women massaged my back and legs with almond oil in the most loving, non-judgemental way. It was such an affirming experience.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><strong><span><span>BIGGEST TAKEAWAY</span></span></strong></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span><span>This was my second Bodysex Circle and it showed me that sexuality has no age limit and erotic pleasure has no expiration date. Women of all ages and all sizes were in the Circle having satisfying orgasms…it’s easy once you understand how your vulva works. I truly enjoyed being in a sex positive, non-judgemental space with like-minded women and I can’t wait to lead my own Bodysex Circles.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p> <p>Tosh's site: <a href="https://www.blackgoddesscollective.com/">blackgoddesscollective.com</a></p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-tags--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-tags.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-tags.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cloud Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/666" hreflang="en">pleasure empowers</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 12:56:10 +0000 ToshPatterson 8183 at https://www.dodsonandross.com https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/anything-i-do-any-part-my-body-will-be-done-solely-my-pleasure#comments My Journey Past Trauma to Pleasure https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/my-journey-past-trauma-pleasure <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">My Journey Past Trauma to Pleasure</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/82626" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">Morgan Frances</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2023-08-23T16:05:37+00:00" title="Wednesday, August 23, 2023 - 16:05" class="datetime">Wed, 08/23/2023 - 16:05</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2023-08/menla.1.jpeg.webp?itok=Q9qJweBH" width="1024" height="431" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p dir="ltr">I have a small jar of ashes on my hallway table – the first thing I see when I walk through my door. They belong to our founder, creator of Bodysex®, “mother of masturbation,” Dr. Betty Dodson®.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">They are a gift from Carlin Ross to the Bodysex Leaders when we complete our certification. The ashes are deeply meaningful to all of us, for all of our individual reasons.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">For me, they represent how I got to rise from my ashes, to receive the gift of hers…</p> <p dir="ltr">–</p> <p dir="ltr">Over a decade ago (my early 20s), when I was still in deep emotional darkness about my incestuous sexual abuse, I would go to therapist and psychiatrists, some of whom were written up in major metropolitan cities as the best in the area, and I would share that I thought something was wrong with me.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">I shared that I simply couldn’t connect to myself sexually the way my peers seem to be able to, and more importantly to myself the way that I intuitively knew I could or should be able to.</p> <p dir="ltr">The responses I received ranged from the reductive and dismissive – “just buy a dildo” – to an alarmist catastrophic order to immediately increase the dosage of medications, group treatments and therapies – all very expensive – focused on rehashing past terrors with fellow women.</p> <p dir="ltr">*I’m respectfully not using the word “victim” here because women are too strong for that.</p> <p dir="ltr">I’m also not using the word “survivor” because of course we survived. We’ve been doing it for ages. Unfortunately, our abuse is “normal.”</p> <p dir="ltr">It wasn’t until my thirties that I found what I needed.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">I encountered it at 33 years old, May 2020, virtually walking into my first Bodysex® session with Carlin.</p> <p dir="ltr">I immediately felt the power of both her and Betty’s real world knowledge, generosity, and life experiences. I felt their years of time spent connecting directly with women as women (not as survivors of sexual torture, or victims of men, or sufferers in a darkly repressed world.) In my session with her, I was seen, heard,&nbsp;normal, and ready for the solution that I previously could not find anywhere.</p> <p dir="ltr">All along, the solution was simple.&nbsp;</p> <ol> <li dir="ltr">teach basic, accurate, information (education)</li> <li dir="ltr">provide supportive, loving community (sisterhood)</li> <li dir="ltr">prioritize practice (masturbation, personal investment of time, energy, money)</li> <li dir="ltr">allow imagination (fantasy)</li> </ol> <p dir="ltr">Now that I’m better educated about my own body and sexual framework, I know I had tiny tension orgasms throughout my life. Prior to my work with Carlin as a Bodysex client, I would have said I had never had one.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">A major healing point for me was the acknowledgement that I was normal, not in spite of or despite my sexual past, but quite literally because of it.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">When over half the population, both men and women, experience some form of sexual violation, it is normal. No woman lives in a sexually free society, in a body that isn’t a constant target, or in a world where we don’t absorb the decades, generations, millenia of sexual violence.</p> <p dir="ltr">–</p> <p dir="ltr">How do we handle this normality?&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">To me, Bodysex® is a sisterhood that is “neither burdened nor blind.”&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">We come together as sisters to heal and transform the world around us, starting with ourselves. We get to be in the future together, not the past alone. We get to give to each other what the world does not provide by default – a safe and harmonious space to create, be free, explore sexuality, reclaim our bodies and ultimately, experience the life saving grace, beauty, joy and fun, of pleasure, in all of its forms.</p> <p dir="ltr">I see we have two choices as we grow up and older: remain disconnected from our bodies and sexual selves, or reintegrate. Remaining disconnected is infinite suffering. Reintegrating is a finite pain.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">As a fellow thriver, I’m here to share: The only way out is through the pain.</p> <p dir="ltr">The good news is: we can do it. We’re strong enough. We’re the strongest beings in the world, if not physically in all cases, then certainly mentally, emotionally, energetically and of course, sexually.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">Our own wells of sexual energy will fill us and heal us. Our Bodysex sisterhood supports us. Like a cast until we’re ready to break free again.</p> <p dir="ltr">This is the power of Bodysex and sisterhood. A safe, sex-positive, accepting, holistic space to heal and mend and walk through the deep joys and pains of healing.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">We provide education based on the female sexual response system so you don’t have to continue to carry shame about not being able to “achieve” or “perform” or “get there.” It’s not about that. It’s about self-love, self-pleasure, self-care, health, and full self-expression. Are orgasms a part of that? Of course. But it’s not the only part and it’s certainly not the end game.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">What if we can’t have orgasms yet? No problem. We’ll teach you, and not a minute too soon, because we will respect your body, your healing, your mental and emotional health, and we’ll celebrate your orgasm’s perfect timeline. There’s no rush now or ever. We’ll give you all the time you need.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">We’re here for&nbsp;you&nbsp;this time, instead of the other way around.</p> <p dir="ltr">We focus on want&nbsp;you&nbsp;want, and&nbsp;your&nbsp;pleasure in whatever form that takes. Your pleasure could be a walk in the park, a hot shower, a massage, an ice cream, the sun on your skin, self-love, masturbation, and orgasm or…&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">We start from a gentle place of self-love and walk courageously into greater experiences of pleasure. With gratitude and acceptance for all of its forms.</p> <p>We don’t focus on our pain, even though we give it space to exist, without resistance. We don’t focus on the past, or what happened, or the other people or persons involved. It happened and we can’t change that. Focusing backwards often brings us only more suffering and gets us back into our heads instead of our bodies. There are, of course, incredible therapists and psychiatrists, doctors and healers who work with us psychologically, but Bodysex® is here for your pleasure. We are here for you, and for each other.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">We validate each other. We believe each other. We See each other. We Hear each other. And for many of us, we exist, authentically, for the first time, in another’s presence, together. We see each other’s complete Selves without rejection, judgment, fear, or shame. We hold the space for you to see yourself.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">–</p> <p dir="ltr">I think about my own experiences walking through all the challenges described above, and I&nbsp; can’t not think of the phoenix rising.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">Of each one of us walking through the fire to emerge victorious and stronger, more agile and powerful than ever before. Ready to share the baton of courage and strength wider and further. The flame grows more potent with each transformation occurring. The sun getting brighter.&nbsp;</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/overcoming-shame-trauma" hreflang="en">Overcoming Shame &amp; Trauma</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-tags--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-tags.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-tags.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cloud Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/896" hreflang="en">self love</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 16:05:37 +0000 Morgan Frances 8182 at https://www.dodsonandross.com Making Time for Pleasure is the Hardest Part of Becoming Orgasmic https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/making-time-pleasure-hardest-part-becoming-orgasmic <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Making Time for Pleasure is the Hardest Part of Becoming Orgasmic</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/106" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">Carlin Ross</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2023-04-23T16:14:49+00:00" title="Sunday, April 23, 2023 - 16:14" class="datetime">Sun, 04/23/2023 - 16:14</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2023-04/img_0292_0.jpeg.webp?itok=N9Maj3PR" width="2291" height="1610" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><span><span>“You have the most sophisticated sex organ on the planet capable of endless pleasure that never ages”.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>I repeat this mantra in workshops, private sessions, and all our videos.&nbsp; And, when the words escape my lips, I see the same look of disbelief flood the face of every woman sitting across from me.&nbsp; How can this be?&nbsp; If it were true, then why can’t I connect to pleasure and have a fucking orgasm?&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>I’ve never worked with a woman who blamed anyone but themselves for their inability to orgasm on command after 5 minutes of stimulation.&nbsp; The common refrain: “I’m broken….it takes me so long…I just can’t surrender”.&nbsp; Channeling my inner Betty – its all crap.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Pleasure evades us for two interwoven reasons: our bodies are not our own and our time isn’t either.&nbsp; I believe in one truth: absolute dominion over one’s body.&nbsp; We have the right to spend an hour touching ourselves in complete solitude to fully know ourselves.&nbsp; Betty divined that – she hit her stride at 40 when she went within by fully discovering herself through orgasm.&nbsp; My favorite chapter in her memoir is “Celibate Priestess”.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>After exploring the orgy scene during the Sexual Revolution, Betty decided to only have sex with herself.&nbsp; On Saturday nights, she would set up her living room with candles and mirrors – all her implements of pleasure and dance, vibrate, touch, and view her body for hours.&nbsp; This is how she developed her masturbation techniques like the Rock n Roll.&nbsp; She was the source of her sexual arousal.&nbsp; And what an amazing concept: I can go within and create sex energy anytime I want on my own terms.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Maybe women struggle with desire because we’re conditioned to look outward for arousal and love.&nbsp; Maybe it can be as simple as looking inward for validation.&nbsp; Maybe this socially created need for acceptance is what undermines our relationships as well as our orgasm.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>No one suffers under the weight of the Protestant work ethic like women.&nbsp; We multitask round the clock – running businesses with a baby on our hip throwing a quiche in the oven.&nbsp; Our time belongs to the family and to the culture….and our time is not monetized or valued.&nbsp; That’s demoralizing and creates this endless cycle of overachievement and repressed sexual energy.&nbsp; This manifests as pain in our vulvas, migraines, <span><span>Lichen sclerosus, painful penetration, inability to orgasm during partner sex</span></span>…dare I say hysteria.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Orgasm takes time.&nbsp; On average, women need 14 minutes of stimulation to have their first orgasm and 28 minutes to have a full-body orgasm.&nbsp; We need practice to discover our preferences.&nbsp; There are so many erogenous zones on the vulva – so many different ways to stimulate our internal clitoris that it is a process of trial and error.&nbsp; We need time to explore and try things out without a ticking clock.&nbsp; We need privacy.&nbsp; We need to believe that our bodies exist for our pleasure and our pleasure alone.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>That starts with touch on a regular basis as children.&nbsp; Respect for our sexual development requires privacy and non-judgment.&nbsp; We need to learn about the diversity of vulvas and the complexity of the female model of sexual response – most importantly, how different it is than the male model of sexual response.&nbsp; We need the time and space to connect to our bodies without the pressure of the male gaze and the endless pursuit of beauty.&nbsp; Our connection to the body is the source of our self-esteem.&nbsp; This empowers us to prioritize our pleasure and run the fuck when we move forward to partner sex.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>How many pointless Netflix episodes did you watch during lockdown?&nbsp; Wouldn’t you have benefited more from stroking your vulva and seeing how much pleasure you can experience, how far you can take your body.&nbsp; That is the ultimate self-knowledge and, if men could have multiple orgasms, they’d never leave the house.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Whether you believe we were created or evolved - we have the most sophisticated sex organ on the planet capable of endless pleasure that never ages - that tells me that pleasure is important, it serves a purpose.&nbsp; As women, we must believe this to fully connect to the sensations in our bodies.&nbsp; We must come from abundance. &nbsp;</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Orgasm is a reflex.&nbsp; If I stimulate my body in the right way for the right amount of time, I will have an orgasm.&nbsp; For me, orgasm is a coping skill – a way to push out all the stress and trauma of life out of my central nervous system.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>You are enough.&nbsp; Know that every time you reach down and touch your vulva, you’re chipping away at the layers of shame that hold us back.&nbsp; There’s no bigger fuck you to the patriarchy then touching our bodies simply because it feels good. Creating a daily ritual of touch is enough to start your journey to orgasm.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Making time for pleasure is absolutely the hardest part of becoming orgasmic.&nbsp; This is why Bodysex works.</span></span><span><span>&nbsp; We’ve dedicated time to pursue pleasure with the supportive energy of an orgasmic women guiding us to ourselves.&nbsp; If I pull my hand away from my vulva or question how long it’s taking or get in my head, I’m reminded to keep going.&nbsp; My guide is watching my body and noting how I respond to different types of stimulation.&nbsp; She is supporting my pleasure by keeping me going - teaching me how to stimulate my body according to my preferences.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p><span><span>I’m hosting two in-person Bodysex workshops this upcoming June 12-15 and June 16-19. &nbsp;Click this link for more information:&nbsp; <a href="https://bodysex.com/workshop-retreat/">https://bodysex.com/workshop-retreat/</a></span></span></p> <p><span><span>And here are some guided audio podcasts to get your started: </span></span></p> <p><a href="https://soundcloud.com/bettydodson/body-meditation?utm_source=clipboard&amp;utm_medium=text&amp;utm_campaign=social_sharing">https://soundcloud.com/bettydodson/body-meditation?utm_source=clipboard&amp;utm_medium=text&amp;utm_campaign=social_sharing</a></p> <p><a href="https://soundcloud.com/bettydodson/vulva-massage?utm_source=clipboard&amp;utm_medium=text&amp;utm_campaign=social_sharing">https://soundcloud.com/bettydodson/vulva-massage?utm_source=clipboard&amp;utm_medium=text&amp;utm_campaign=social_sharing</a></p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/creating-sexual-desire" hreflang="en">Creating Sexual Desire</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/overcoming-shame-trauma" hreflang="en">Overcoming Shame &amp; Trauma</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-tags--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-tags.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-tags.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cloud Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/796" hreflang="en">arousal</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/631" hreflang="en">orgasm</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/896" hreflang="en">self love</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/671" hreflang="en">self pleasure</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Sun, 23 Apr 2023 16:14:49 +0000 Carlin Ross 8176 at https://www.dodsonandross.com My First Live Workshop Without Betty https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/my-first-live-workshop-without-betty <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--blog.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">My First Live Workshop Without Betty</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--blog.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/106" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">Carlin Ross</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/user/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--blog.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2023-02-15T14:31:19+00:00" title="Wednesday, February 15, 2023 - 14:31" class="datetime">Wed, 02/15/2023 - 14:31</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x links--node.html.twig x links--node.html.twig * links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/content/links--node.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-components--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-components.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-components.html.twig * field--entity-reference-revisions.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--image--default.html.twig * paragraph--image.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-image--image.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-image.html.twig * field--paragraph--image.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2023-02/43c9e6f9-fa94-4276-928b-184fc385465c.jpg.webp?itok=bo-0J8B9" width="3971" height="1949" alt="" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-webp" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="field__item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'paragraph' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary---default.html.twig * paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * paragraph--default.html.twig x paragraph.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--atom-rtf-with-summary- paragraph--view-mode--default"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--paragraph--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig * field--paragraph--atom-rtf-with-summary-.html.twig * field--field-atom-rtf-with-summary.html.twig x field--text-with-summary.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-field-atom-rtf-with-summary field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The December before lockdown Betty and I lead our last workshop together.&nbsp; There was a feeling of finality in that group.&nbsp; Betty's skin and hair had turned this glowing translucent white - like an angel.&nbsp; She was peaceful, calm and quite loving towards me.&nbsp; As we sipped champagne at the drawing table in her bedroom, she looked me dead and in the eye and announced, "you're better than me".&nbsp; I couldn't hear it and went into my usual compliment deflection when she repeated herself with a finger pointed in my direction, "you're better than me."&nbsp; In that moment, I decided to receive.&nbsp; It was our last conversation.&nbsp; Betty had passed the torch.</p> <p>After taking Bodysex virtual and enduring three covid waves - it was time to get back to the circle.&nbsp; I knew NYC wasn't going to work.&nbsp; The only place that seemed right was Menla.&nbsp; We'd hosted two retreats to celebrate Betty's 90th birthday there.&nbsp; It's rare to find a beautiful, self-contained space where we can share group nudity.&nbsp; Being surrounded by nature is a form of pleasure in itself.&nbsp; Native American tribes believe that Menla is on sacred land, hit millions of years ago by a meteorite.&nbsp; There is something powerful about the work being supported by the land.&nbsp; It's a different feeling than being in a hotel or tourist destination.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>We posted a link, and the reservations came in.&nbsp; We would be accommodating a larger group of women.&nbsp; The work would have to adapt.&nbsp; Also, I wanted to include the knowledge I gained from the virtual work.&nbsp; I decided to invite several women from the Bodysex community to support the first retreat.&nbsp; It felt right.</p> <p>As I boiled barbells and unboxed wands, it was like muscle memory.&nbsp; I'd stood in Betty's kitchen doing the same preparation for over a decade.&nbsp; "I can do this", I stated out loud.&nbsp; My heart was heavy but I moved forward.&nbsp; I packed up my car and made one last dash to the house.&nbsp; In that moment, I decided to pour some of Betty's ashes into a small glass bottle.&nbsp; She would be there at the retreat.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <img alt="Betty's Ashes" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="324d89ac-8cab-4910-b53c-81f71350428b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG_0035_0.jpeg" class="align-center" width="700" height="525" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>A retreat gives you more time with the women because you have your mornings and nights open for rituals.&nbsp; &nbsp;We added education from my virtual work and research, held a night of vulva massage and dancing, took hikes, got massages (the spa is world-class), ate strawberries and chocolate bites between sessions, and finished the weekend with a bon fire.&nbsp; Being surrounded with sex positive energy - female sex positive energy - for several days is healing in indescribable ways.&nbsp; Several of the women who attended are moving forward with Bodysex certification.&nbsp; When an experience is so inspiring that you want to learn the practice, it means everything.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <img alt="Education" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9aede71f-4e27-4295-a338-e637f024d07e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG_0080_0.jpeg" class="align-center" width="700" height="695" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>I'd placed the glass bottle of Betty's ashes on the stage in the shrine room.&nbsp;&nbsp;There was moment when I was standing in the middle of the circle, leading the women as they vibrated around me when I looked up at Betty's ashes.&nbsp; This was her send off.&nbsp; Our orgasm energy - the sounds of our pleasure - was the closure I needed.&nbsp; Betty Dodson's spirit would leave the planet heralded by self-love and independent orgasm.&nbsp; Tears welled up and I released them.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>The women were fantastic - as always.&nbsp; Bodysex has ruined me for all other friendships.&nbsp; Until you've shared your vulva and your orgasm, it's all bullshit.&nbsp; I drove home warmed by the thought that I am continuing Betty's legacy...that she would be proud.&nbsp; Then I realized I'm not alone - the Bodysex community is continuing Betty's legacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thank you Laura, Celine, and Frances.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <img alt="Bodysex Sisterhood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="def66bd7-6e1e-4689-94f0-76ff8ad86fbf" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG_0127.jpeg" class="align-center" width="700" height="494" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Here I am with Laura after genital show and tell.&nbsp; We're hosting two more circles at Menla this upcoming <strong>June 12 – 15, 2023 and June 16 – 19, 2023.&nbsp; Here is a link with more information:&nbsp;<a href="https://bodysex.com/workshop-retreat/">https://bodysex.com/workshop-retreat/</a></strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <img alt="Carlin and Laura" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2a64dc58-b0e7-4e8e-adb5-97c56e527f6e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG_0106.jpeg" class="align-center" width="700" height="525" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--text-with-summary.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/paragraphs/templates/paragraph.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-category.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-category.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <div class="articles__categories"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--card paragraph--view-mode--default simple-band transparent"> <div class="field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--title paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="field field--name-field-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mentions And Related Topics</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/articles/category/bodysex" hreflang="en">Bodysex</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--node--field-category--blog.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-tags--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-tags.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-tags.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Cloud Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/676" hreflang="en">erotic recess</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/731" hreflang="en">genital show and tell</a></div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-blog-comments--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-blog-comments.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig * field--field-blog-comments.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section class="field field--name-field-blog-comments field--type-comment field--label-hidden comment-wrapper"> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/classy/templates/field/field--comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts--blog.html.twig * field--node--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--node--blog.html.twig x field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig * field--boolean.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/dodson/templates/field/field--field-promote-to-popular-posts.html.twig' --> Wed, 15 Feb 2023 14:31:19 +0000 Carlin Ross 8175 at https://www.dodsonandross.com https://www.dodsonandross.com/articles/my-first-live-workshop-without-betty#comments