Having
'THE TALK'

Whether you are 20 or 60, when things are heating up sexually in
your new relationship, it is time to have The Talk. The talk that I
propose has two components, and both are essential for a healthy
relationship.
Are you feeling anxiety or embarrassment? That’s normal; just
breathe deep for a few minutes and contemplate your options. If you
choose not to have The Talk, you are sabotaging the intimacy
potential in your relationship. You may also be putting yourself and
your partner at risk physically and emotionally. In initiating The
Talk you are showing courage, honor and respect. And lastly, I
believe that the Universe brings us similar circumstances to
experience until we gain the lesson. Getting the lesson now would be
my choice.
The Talk - Part One
- Safe Sex
Start by reading some current safe sex information and suggested
precautions. Then decide on your own comfortable and safe boundaries
and safer sex intentions. Create a safer sex plan that will meet
your level of safety, regardless of what your partner shares
regarding their health status or sexual history, unless you both
agree to STD and HIV testing. Do not yield to persuasion, compromise
or negotiation. If you value your sexual health, don’t make any assumptions, be clear with your boundaries, and walk your talk.
Setting boundaries actually promotes freedom and playfulness. It
defines the options giving you full permission to enjoy, be
creative, savor, delight and tease. Mentally there is no guilt to
dampen your experience, and your mind is more likely to be focused
on the present rather than on the possibilities – an essential for
fully enjoying any sexual experience.
The Talk - Part Two
- What Does This Mean?
The second component of The Talk is equally important and often
overlooked. Making assumptions here may trigger pain, feelings of
betrayal and lack of trust, along with putting your sexual health at
risk. You may be expecting a monogamous relationship with your
partner, now that you are engaging sexually. Your partner may have
other ideas, or may not have contemplated the form of your
relationship at all. Any relationship path may entail loyalties,
responsibilities, obligations, expectations and guidelines. You and
your partner may see your path quite differently. In today’s
culture, there are many relationship styles, including traditional
monogamy and polyamory (ethical non-monogamy). Avoid those painful misunderstandings by asking “What does this mean to our
relationship, now that we are planning on being sexual?”
Suggestions for Having The Talk
Be conscious of your timing. Having
The Talk is best done when you are totally sober, not angry or
tired, and definitely not in the heat of passion. Choose a time when
you will have total privacy and no time restrictions. Do not allow interruptions from the phone,
pets, etc.
To start, sit facing your partner and make eye contact. Take your
partner’s hands in yours to engage their full attention. Silently
create an intention for honesty and understanding. Stay present and
fully hear your partner. Consider employing the mirroring
communication technique (repeating back what you’ve just heard).
You may choose to start with some thing like:
"I am a little nervous talking about this, but it is important for us
and I don’t want to avoid it."
"I can't wait to have sex with you,
but think it
would be good to talk about some things first."
Be conscious of your feelings after the talk. Are you feeling
respected and cared for? Are you feeling more unclear than you did
before The Talk? Are there hurt feelings? Is there a lack of trust?
Was your partner fully absorbed in the conversation, and did they
share their thoughts comfortably? Are you feeling more intimacy,
safety and comfort, and eager anticipation? Notice any red flags
that may be waving at you – avoidance, control tactics or
conflicting statements.
This is a significant turning point in your relationship and you may
feel confident that you want to move forward or you may have
reservations. Check in with your body and see if there is anxiety or
muscle tightness. Are you holding your breath? Bodies have wisdom
that we don’t always recognize. Take the time to listen to your body’s
message before you move forward.