In this conversation, Dr. Lisette Ostrander and I explore the intricate relationship between feminine wisdom, sexuality, and pleasure. We also talk about the cultural narratives surrounding women's sexuality, the importance of creating safe spaces for exploration, and the need to reclaim pleasure as a vital aspect of life.

Key Takeaways:

* Feminine power includes the ability to celebrate and sustain life, along with the ability to access deep wisdom found within the body

* Cultural structures have historically excluded women's input on power

* Embodied wisdom teaches us about pleasure and connection.

* Sex and pleasure are integral to understanding feminine wisdom.

* Cultural narratives often vilify women's sexuality and pleasure and have done so for a great deal of recorded history.

* Creating safe spaces is essential for exploring sexuality.

* Eroticism is about seeking pleasure for its own sake.

* Life experiences significantly impact sexual experiences.

* Women often face challenges related to desire and intimacy.

* Self-exploration and understanding one's body are crucial for empowerment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Sacred Feminine

03:22 Exploring Feminine Power

06:39 The Journey of Sexuality and Pleasure

11:50 Cultural Influences on Sexuality

18:22 The Complexity of Women’s Sexual Experiences

23:32 The Intersection of Life and Sexuality

29:34 The Role of Safety in Sexual Encounters

35:38 Challenges Women Face in Sexuality

40:03 Men's Perspectives on Sexuality

47:28 Empowering Women to Explore Their Sexuality

51:31 Practical Steps to Embrace Sexual Pleasure

57:04 New podcast outro 062625 - 6:26:25, 5.23 PM.mp3

Notes about this episode:

* Lisette and I referred to the Home to Her podcast episode, Becoming a Land Steward with Belinda Liu: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/68a392e1-b9c3-4b9c-9a70-5aa9994ad55c

* We also discussed the Hestia retreat centers - you can learn more about them here: https://www.hestiamagic.com/

* I referenced the virgin-whore dichotomy so many women face; you can find a description of this here: https://www.modernintimacy.com/the-psychology-of-the-madonna-whore-complex/

* Lisette referenced the work of sex and relationship therapist Esther Perel. She also mentioned two books: The Erotic Mind, by Jack Morin; and Women's Anatomy of Arousal, by Sheri Winston