Photo by Chewy on Unsplash

The Impact of Discrimination and Stigma

Research highlights that LGBTQ+ people are at higher risk of psychological disorders, with queer youth being significantly more likely than their heterosexual peers to suffer from depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Mental health is an important topic, as is responsible online gaming. The latter requires a deliberate choice of reliable platforms; the best online casino reviews can help with this, providing comprehensive information.

Stories of Resilience and Support

Despite these challenges, the lesbian and broader LGBTQ+ community is known for its resilience. Many thrive with the support of accepting families, friends, and communities. Personal stories often highlight the journey toward self-acceptance, the importance of finding supportive networks, and the transformative impact of accessing LGBTQ+ affirmative mental health care. These narratives serve as a testament to individual resilience and underscore the critical need for inclusive support systems.

Resources for Support and Care
Professional Help and Peer Support: Organizations like The Trevor Project offer 24/7 support via phone, text, or online messaging, catering specifically to LGBTQ+ youth. The National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network is a healing justice organization committed to transforming mental health for queer and trans people of color, providing financial assistance for psychological well-being support, and maintaining a directory of dedicated practitioners.

• Educational and Supportive Environments: The Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and the Genders and Sexualities Alliance (GSA) Network work towards creating safe and inclusive educational environments for LGBTQ+ students, offering resources for educators and students alike.
• Understanding and Navigating Mental Health: Mental Health America offers a dedicated LGBTQ+ Mental Health Resource Center, providing insights into psychological well-being issues faced by the community, and resources for finding queer-friendly therapy and support.
• Empowerment through Knowledge and Community: The CDC’s resources for LGBTQ+ youth emphasize the importance of protective factors and supportive adults in their lives, offering guides and information to strengthen programs and research.

Photo by Ave Calvar on Unsplash

Moving Forward

The journey toward emotional health for individuals within the lesbian community is both personal and collective. Sharing stories and experiences can be a powerful tool for connection and healing. The road to better psychological well-being for lesbians and all LGBTQ+ people may be made more accessible and affirming by making the most of the tools that are already available and creating welcoming and understanding surroundings.

The information gathered from sources like Mental Health America, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and the CDC underlines the importance of addressing psychological wellness with sensitivity to the unique experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. It ensures access to supportive resources and celebrates the inherent resilience and diversity of queer people.

The post Navigating Mental Health: Resources and Stories from the Lesbian Community first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Welcome to a holistic wellness journey where we explore the potential of CBD in enhancing the well-being of the lesbian community. In this article, we’ll delve into the various aspects of CBD, its benefits, and how it can be integrated into a wellness routine.

Understanding CBD

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, another compound found in cannabis, CBD is not psychoactive. This non-psychoactive nature, coupled with its potential therapeutic benefits, has contributed to the widespread acceptance of CBD in many regions. It’s crucial to understand that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signaling network in the body, influencing various physiological processes, including mood, sleep, and immune response.

CBD for Stress and Mental Well-being

Stress is a universal experience, and the lesbian community is no exception. CBD has shown promise in addressing stress and anxiety, offering a potential natural remedy. The endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating stress responses, is influenced by CBD. Personal stories and testimonials within the community highlight the positive impact CBD can have on mental health, fostering a sense of calm and relaxation without the intoxicating effects associated with THC.

Sexual Health and CBD

Exploring the connection between sexual health and wellness is integral to holistic well-being. CBD’s potential impact on sexual well-being is an emerging area of interest. The endocannabinoid system, which CBD interacts with, plays a role in various bodily functions, including those related to sexual health. While research is ongoing, some individuals within the lesbian community have reported positive experiences with CBD in enhancing intimacy, reducing discomfort, and promoting overall sexual well-being.

CBD and Sleep

Quality sleep is foundational to overall health, and sleep patterns disruptions can profoundly affect well-being. CBD may play a role in promoting better sleep by addressing factors such as anxiety and pain. Many in the lesbian community have found incorporating CBD into their nighttime routines to be a helpful addition. Creating a calming bedtime ritual with CBD-infused products, such as oils or capsules, may contribute to a more restful and rejuvenating sleep experience. Check out CBDTornado for more information on this topic.

Navigating CBD Products

Understanding the variety of CBD products available is crucial for making informed choices. CBD comes in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, and topicals. The method of consumption can influence the onset and duration of effects. When navigating CBD products, it’s essential to consider dosage, product quality, and individual preferences. Sourcing high-quality CBD from reputable manufacturers ensures a positive and effective experience.

CBD and Self-Care Rituals

Integrating CBD into self-care practices can enhance the holistic wellness journey. Self-care is vital to maintaining overall well-being, and CBD can be a supportive addition to these rituals. Whether incorporating CBD-infused skincare products, taking a moment for mindful meditation with CBD oils, or enjoying a CBD-infused bath, the goal is to create a personalized self-care routine that nurtures both the body and mind.

Candid Conversations: Lesbian Experiences with CBD

Real-life stories from the lesbian community provide valuable insights into personal experiences with CBD for wellness. Candid conversations foster openness and shared experiences, creating a supportive environment for those curious about or new to CBD. Hearing how others have incorporated CBD into their lives, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the positive outcomes they’ve experienced can empower individuals to explore CBD as part of their wellness journey.

CBD and Mental Resilience

Mental resilience is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, especially in the face of life’s challenges. CBD is being explored for its potential role in supporting mental resilience by addressing stress and promoting emotional balance. While individual responses to CBD may vary, some within the lesbian community have reported positive outcomes in terms of improved stress management, focus, and emotional well-being. It’s essential to approach CBD as part of a holistic strategy that may include other wellness practices.

Exploring CBD in Lesbian-Friendly Spaces

Creating and maintaining supportive spaces for CBD enthusiasts within the lesbian community is essential. LGBTQ+-friendly CBD events, wellness gatherings, and establishments contribute to building a network where individuals can share experiences, learn from each other, and explore CBD in a safe and inclusive environment. These spaces also play a crucial role in destigmatizing conversations around CBD and fostering a sense of community.

Legal Considerations in the Lesbian Community

Navigating CBD legality and regulations is essential. Understanding legal nuances in various regions empowers the community through knowledge and informed choices.

Future of CBD in Lesbian Wellness

Emerging trends and research in CBD offer insights into the future of wellness. Lesbian perspectives on CBD’s role in holistic health encourage staying informed and progressive in wellness choices.

Conclusion

In closing, CBD stands as a multifaceted tool for holistic wellness in the lesbian community. CBD offers a range of potential benefits, from stress relief to beauty enhancements, fitness support, and emotional well-being. Embrace openness, share experiences, and let CBD be a supportive companion on your unique wellness journey within the lesbian community.

The post CBD and Wellness in the Lesbian Community: Navigating the Path to Health first appeared on Lesbian.com.

From Unsplash

The world of cannabinoids is ever-evolving, with new compounds gaining attention for their unique effects and potential benefits. Among these, Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC have emerged as notable compounds. Each of these cannabinoids has distinct properties and effects, making them intriguing for both recreational users and those interested in their therapeutic potentials.

What Are Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10?
These compounds are all forms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component found in the cannabis plant. Their names – Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 – refer to the placement of a certain double bond in their molecular structure, which significantly influences their effects on the body. Let’s discuss Delta 8 vs Delta 9 vs Delta 10.

Delta 9-THC
Delta 9-THC is the most well-known form of THC, commonly associated with the classic effects of cannabis. It is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana and is known for producing strong euphoric effects.

Delta 8-THC
Delta 8-THC is similar to Delta 9-THC but with a few key differences. It’s less potent than Delta 9, often described as offering a more clear-headed experience with less anxiety and paranoia.

Delta 10-THC
Delta 10-THC is the least researched of the three. It’s known for its mild psychoactive effects, often described as more energizing and less sedating than Delta 9-THC.
Effects and Benefits

Delta 9-THC
Psychoactive Effects: Strong euphoria, altered perception of time, and sensory enhancement.
Medical Benefits: Pain relief, anti-nausea, appetite stimulation, and potential aid for insomnia.

Delta 8-THC
Psychoactive Effects: Milder than Delta 9, offering relaxation and potential mental clarity.
Medical Benefits: Similar to Delta 9, but with reduced psychoactive intensity. May include pain relief, anti-nausea, and neuroprotective properties.

Delta 10-THC
Psychoactive Effects: Mild euphoria, focus, and energy.
Medical Benefits: Less understood, but potential for pain relief and mood enhancement without significant sedation.

Legal Status
The legal status of these cannabinoids varies by region and is often subject to change. Delta 9-THC is federally illegal in many countries but legal for medicinal or recreational use in several states and regions. Delta 8 and Delta 10, derived from hemp, may fall under different legal frameworks, often existing in a legal gray area.

Safety and Side Effects
While these cannabinoids are generally considered safe, they can have side effects, particularly at high doses. These may include dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, coordination problems, and anxiety. It’s essential to use these substances responsibly and be aware of the laws in your area.

Which one is best for beginners: Delta 8 vs Delta 9 vs Delta 10?
When considering which cannabinoid is best for beginners among Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC, it’s important to understand the differences in their effects and potency. Each individual’s reaction to these compounds can vary, so what works best for one person may not be the same for another. However, here’s a general guide based on their common characteristics:

Delta 8-THC: Often recommended for beginners. Delta 8-THC is known for its milder psychoactive effects compared to Delta 9-THC. It tends to provide a more clear-headed experience with reduced chances of anxiety and paranoia, which are sometimes associated with higher concentrations of Delta 9-THC. For those new to THC, Delta 8 can offer a gentler introduction to the effects of cannabinoids.

Delta 10-THC: Similar to Delta 8, Delta 10-THC is known for its milder effects. It’s often described as providing a more uplifting and energizing experience, which can be less overwhelming for beginners. However, Delta 10-THC is less researched and less commonly available than Delta 8 and Delta 9, which might make it harder to find reliable products.

Delta 9-THC: This is the most potent and psychoactive of the three. Delta 9-THC is responsible for the classic ‘high’ associated with cannabis. It can produce strong euphoria, altered perception, and sensory enhancement, but it can also lead to increased anxiety or paranoia, especially in higher doses or in individuals not accustomed to THC. Beginners might find Delta 9-THC to be too intense as a starting point.

For beginners, Delta 8-THC is often considered the best starting point due to its lower potency and reduced likelihood of causing anxiety or overwhelming effects. It allows new users to gauge their tolerance and understand how their bodies react to THC.

However, it’s crucial to start with a low dose, regardless of the type, and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the effects. Also, be aware of the legal status of these substances in your area and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any health concerns or are taking other medications.

Conclusion
Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC each offer unique experiences and benefits. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for anyone looking to explore their effects, whether for recreational enjoyment or therapeutic purposes.

As with any cannabis product, it’s important to start with a low dose and understand the legal and health implications of their use. With ongoing research and growing interest, the future of these cannabinoids is likely to bring even more insights into their potentials and applications.

The post Delta 8 vs Delta 9 vs Delta 10: Understanding the Differences first appeared on Lesbian.com.

From Unsplash

Edibles are quickly becoming one of the most common ways to consume CBD. Any culinary item, from baked goods to CBD gummies for sex for man, is considered edible. CBD may also be found in a variety of beverages and juices. CBD coffees are already on the market, and they provide a potent antioxidant boost. The benefits of these items are their portability, anonymity, deliciousness, and longevity.

Several CBD-Infused Edibles
As a result of the widespread interest in CBD edibles, several brands have emerged. You need to choose one depending on which one is available and which one best suits your needs.

• CBD Gummies

CBD gummies are, as the name implies, gummies that have had CBDs added to them. They’re enjoyable to eat since their gelatinous construction allows them to take the form of anything from bears to squares to balls. The jelly-like composition ensures a lengthy shelf life.

From Unsplash

• CBD Energy Bars
In recent decades, CBD energy bars have become more popular. It’s a convenient way to take CBD. They’re simple to mass-produce and not sticky like traditional candy. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties are also helping to boost demand for CBD-based protein bars and fitness bars. As a result, they are excellent supplements for boosting calorie intake after exercise.

• CBD Coffee
The combination of coffee and CBD is not a match made in heaven. The first is meant to provide a shock of revitalizing energy, while the second is intended to provide a cozy blanket of therapeutically beneficial comfort.
On the other hand, the combination of the two is much more effective in boosting focus, energy, and output. CBD and coffee have another similarity: both are high in antioxidants. When these substances are used, the body is able to rid itself of harmful free radicals.

• CBD Lollipops
CBD lollipops are a great option if you’re concerned about being seen as a CBD supporter. One convenient alternative is to consume them in the form of CBD lollipops. They also have a more pleasant flavor than the natural CBD oil, which some people find unpleasant due to its earthy undertones. In addition, the recommended doses are printed right on the packaging. Therefore, monitoring your intake is unnecessary.

• CBD Brownies
Brownies and other culinary CBD products have proved to be highly popular. Their taste lingers with you so that you can enjoy them for a very long time. Finally, a little amount goes a long way. You need to be conscious of brownies’ high-calorie content.

Nonetheless, one of their best advantages is that you can make your own CBD brownies. This allows you to have total control over the ingredients in your edibles, enabling you to make sure they are as pure and healthful as possible. It’s critical to choose the right CBD oil and use it correctly for optimal effects.

Bioavailability of CBD Edibles
CBD consumers are always researching new methods to take advantage of this beneficial substance. This explains why there are so many methods for ingesting CBD. The bioavailability of CBD is important here.

Cannabinoid bioavailability describes how well a certain cannabinoid is absorbed by and used by the body. An edible like CBD gummies labeled as containing 10mg may only provide 2–5mg after intake due to its low bioavailability. Eating any cannabis consumable with food will greatly improve its bioavailability.

Conclusion
The low potency and convenience of CBD edibles, ranging from brownies to CBD gummies, make them a great choice for first-time users. On the other hand, edibles need more time to digest, but their benefits are more long-lasting. Thus, the beneficial benefits of CBD edibles remain longer in your system.

The post From Brownies to Gummies: Popular Types of CBD Edibles first appeared on Lesbian.com.

From Pexels

The use of cannabis, commonly known as weed, as a dietary supplement is a topic of growing interest in the wellness community. With the increasing legalization and de-stigmatization of cannabis around the world, more people are curious about its potential health benefits. This article aims to explore how cannabis can be incorporated as a supplement in a healthy diet.

What is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that contains a variety of compounds, with the most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the psychoactive component that gives the “high,” while CBD is non-psychoactive and is often associated with the medicinal benefits of cannabis.

Nutritional Profile of Cannabis

From Pexels

Cannabis leaves and seeds are rich in nutrients. They contain essential fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. For example, hemp seeds, a product of the cannabis plant, are an excellent source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health.


Health Benefits of Cannabis
Pain Relief: Weed Carts is often used for pain management. CBD, in particular, has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain without the psychoactive effects of THC.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Many users find that cannabis helps in reducing anxiety and stress. The calming effect of CBD can aid in improving mental health and well-being.

Sleep Aid: Cannabis has properties that can help regulate sleep patterns. It is often used by people who have insomnia or disrupted sleep.

Appetite Regulation: THC is known to stimulate appetite, which can be beneficial for individuals struggling with appetite loss due to medical conditions or treatments.

Incorporating Cannabis into Your Diet
Cannabis-Infused Edibles: Edibles are a popular way to consume cannabis. They can range from baked goods to gummies, offering a controlled dosage of THC and/or CBD.

Cannabis Oil: Cannabis oil can be used in cooking or taken as a supplement. It’s an easy way to add cannabis to your diet without smoking.

Hemp Seeds: Adding hemp seeds to your diet is a nutritious way to get the benefits of cannabis. They can be sprinkled on salads, yogurt, or blended into smoothies.

Safety and Legal Considerations
It’s crucial to be aware of the legal status of cannabis in your region. Additionally, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Dosage Guide for Cannabis (Weed) Products

From Pexels

Navigating the world of cannabis can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding dosages. Whether you’re a beginner or returning after a long break, it’s crucial to know how much to consume to achieve the desired effects while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. This guide offers a general overview of dosage for various weed products. Remember, the ideal dosage varies based on individual factors like body weight, tolerance, and the desired effect.

1. Flower (Smoked or Vaporized)
– Beginner Dose: 1-2 puffs (5-10% THC content is advisable for starters)
– Regular User Dose: 3-5 puffs or more, depending on tolerance
– Note: Effects usually felt within minutes and can last 2-4 hours.

2. Edibles (Gummies, Chocolates, Baked Goods)
– Beginner Dose: 2.5-5 mg THC per serving
– Regular User Dose: 5-10 mg THC or more, based on tolerance
– Note: Effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to manifest and may last up to 8 hours. Start with a low dose and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more to gauge the effect.

3. Tinctures (Oral Drops)
– Beginner Dose: 2.5-5 mg THC per serving
– Regular User Dose: 5-15 mg THC, adjusted as needed
– Note: Sublingual administration (under the tongue) can lead to faster onset (15-45 minutes) compared to swallowing.

4. Capsules and Pills
– Beginner Dose: 5 mg THC per capsule
– Regular User Dose: 10-20 mg THC per capsule, depending on experience
– Note: Effects similar to edibles; delayed onset and longer duration.

5. Topicals (Creams, Balms)
– Beginner Dose: Apply as needed; THC does not typically enter the bloodstream
– Regular User Dose: Same as beginners; adjust based on relief provided
– Note: Ideal for localized pain or skin conditions; no psychoactive effects.

6. Concentrates (Wax, Shatter, Oil)
– Beginner Dose: A pinhead-sized amount (less than 0.1g)
– Regular User Dose: As tolerated, but caution is advised due to high potency
– Note: Effects are immediate and intense; not recommended for beginners.

7. Vaping
– Beginner Dose: 1-2 puffs
– Regular User Dose: As tolerated, adjusted to individual preference
– Note: Onset is quick; effects can vary based on the concentration of THC.

When it comes to cannabis consumption, the key is to start low and go slow. Everyone’s body chemistry is different, and what works for one person may not work for another.

It’s also important to consider the setting and your comfort level with the effects of THC. Always ensure that you’re in a safe and comfortable environment when experimenting with cannabis. Lastly, always abide by the laws and regulations of your area regarding cannabis use.

Conclusion
While cannabis is not a cure-all, it has potential as a dietary supplement for certain health conditions. As research continues to grow in this field, we may uncover more ways in which cannabis can contribute to a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Remember, moderation and informed choices are key to safely incorporating cannabis into your diet.

The post Exploring Cannabis as a Healthy Diet Supplement first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Charee’ created her business at the height of the pandemic and it is now a thriving successful company.

She is also the creator of Neurocognitive Reprogramming. A method she developed to reprogram the subconscious mind to heal past trauma and limiting beliefs. Candace has helped heal and transform thousands of lives in a very short amount of time!

Charee’ says, “The beauty of my method is that it is fast and virtually pain free. I love being able to give someone back their life in a quick way.”

Charee’ has had the privilege of working with thousands of individuals to reprogram their old subconscious beliefs, recreate themselves, and become true to the creator inside of them. As an empathetic energy healer, she can lessen the pain and trauma that may be blocking her students’ manifestation process.

“My specialty is helping women reprogram old beliefs, master their self-love, and transform into the Goddess they are meant to be. These women are ready to manifest their ideal life and with my help and expertise, they are able to step into the role of the divine feminine and have all of their deepest desires fulfilled.”

To put it simply, she teaches women how to gain extreme self-confidence and self-love, so they can have the life they deserve and desire.

Charee’ says, “I believe resiliency is easier when we have a strong self-concept and powerful uplifting beliefs. I teach others how to view life this way so they can face any challenge with strength and poise.”

How did she create this business during a pandemic?

In 2017, Charee’ got out of an abusive marriage, moved in with her mom, was in a huge amount of debt and literally had to start her life over from scratch.

“I was amazing at finding love, but I couldn’t seem to keep it. No matter my success in the TV and film industry, I always seemed to have trouble romantically. Anxiety and limiting-beliefs gnawed at me day in and day out, threatening my very existence. And I had no clear direction on where to go. One day, I stumbled upon a teaching by Neville Goddard, one of the most well-known manifestation teachers in history. And instantly, I knew in my core that life would never be the same. This was the answer I’d been looking for. I became obsessed. I threw myself into studying Neville and his manifestation teachings.”

Candace is now remarried and a mother to three beautiful children, Charee’ says, “I learned that I am the creator of my own life. I learned that I create my own reality based on my feelings, beliefs, and assumptions. I learned that life is created in the imagination. I put Neville’s strategies into place and life changed quicker than I ever thought possible. I fell in love. I got married. Our relationship is very unique! My husband, George, is featured a lot in my business and we have a podcast together. My fan base loves his inclusion as he helps bring in the male perspective in a wonderful way. My life had transformed, right before my eyes. My business boomed and became a beacon for hope and change.“

What advice does Charee have for aspiring women entrepreneurs?

“Don’t take no for an answer. If there is one thing my very powerful and entrepreneurial minded mother taught me, it was to NEVER give up!”

What’s next for this amazing entrepreneur?

Charee’ now has an elite group coaching program called The Effortless Goddess. It is a 12-week super intensive reprogramming bootcamp with her guidance and coaching every step of the way. This program will challenge and transform every aspect of your life from money woes to love. You will level-up in every way possible and have every desire you ever wished for!

Charee’ says, “It became my mission to change lives, transform pain into bliss, and help my students become the people who have it all. One manifestation at a time.”

Want to find out more about the Effortless Goddess Program, private coaching or her life-changing meditations and eBooks please check it out here: https://www.effortlessmanifesting.com

The post Healing Trauma with Candace Charee’ first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Do you want to feel more emotionally, physically, and mentally connected to your spouse throughout the decades? Read on to learn how to create a tighter bond with your partner.

Perform Random Acts of Kindness
Small gestures can make a big difference in your relationship. The occasional act of kindness will prove you think of your partner often or want to take care of them.

You don’t need to splash out on flowers, chocolates, or grand gestures, either. Perform simple, affordable surprises that will make them feel loved, such as:
• Serving breakfast in bed
• Filling up their tank with gas
• Cooking their favorite meal
• Running a romantic bath

Express Appreciation
Expressing thanks might not seem like a big deal in a relationship, but displaying appreciation is essential, even if it is for making a cup of coffee or buying your favorite snack from a store.

When you express gratitude to your other half, it will make them feel valued and loved. Therefore, it could help you feel closer to each other each day, and the positive words may make your partner feel happier and more secure in the relationship.

Experiment in the Bedroom
Keeping sex fun and exciting will help you develop a stronger relationship. After all, physical intimacy and vulnerability will prove you are attracted to your other half and remind them the spark is alive and well.

There are many ways to experiment with your spouse inside the bedroom, too. You can start small by incorporating popular adult toys into your sex life, such as vibrators and cock rings. You could then take sexual exploration to the next level if you desire, with strap-on play with the help of adulttoystore.com.au. It is bound to spice up your relationship and may make you feel closer than ever to your spouse.

Talk to Your Partner Regularly
Long-term couples can start to live separate lives over time due to busy working lives, personal responsibilities, and stress. If you and your partner have stopped communicating, set time aside to enjoy a chat each day.

You don’t need to sit down daily to discuss your deepest emotions, but ten minutes of general conversation could improve your connection. Discuss your dreams together, ask how their friends are, talk about each other’s stresses, or bond over a mutual interest. It will ensure you never feel disconnected from your partner, and taking a genuine interest in their day will prove you care about their wants, goals, and worries.

Talking to each other in the home is crucial for a long-lasting, happy relationship. Also, it may help to enjoy a monthly date night to catch up, relax, and have some fun together away from life’s everyday stresses and responsibilities.

The post How to Create a Tighter Bond with Your Partner first appeared on Lesbian.com.

However, the initial ‘new relationship’ passion can become more of a slow burn, which is just one of those things that happen when we become well acquainted with someone and our neurochemicals calm down.

If you are looking for some ideas on how you can inject some passion back into your relationship and facilitate a deeper intimacy, read on for some top tips.

Focus on Emotional Intimacy
Emotional intimacy often takes a leading role in our sex life, so when that is lacking, it can be difficult to want to hop in between the bedsheets. If you find that you have not had a lot of quality time to spend together, start cutting it out of your day and make a real effort to start ‘dating’ again. This can be anything from making a meal together, trying a new activity together, or having uninterrupted conversations where phones are put away and you focus on each other. All of these can get you back to a base level of romance and give you a chance to focus on your relationship. This can be more difficult in our day-to-day life, with so many demands and concerns, so putting in that effort is really important.

Focus on Non-Sexual Physical Touch
Physical touch can release the hormone oxytocin, which is what your brain is initially flooded with when you first start dating someone – this is why you cannot keep your hands off of each other. You can encourage the production of oxytocin by hugging, cuddling, holding hands, a relaxing massage, or even taking a bath together. This can also release stress, which is well known for getting in the way of a healthy sex life. It is important to note here that a healthy sex life is what you and your partner determine it to be, where you are both happy.

Try Something You Have Not Tried Before
One of the best ways to bring intimacy back into your relationship is to try something new. It can be difficult to get excited about being with someone if you already know exactly how it is going to go, even if it is good. Switch things up to make things more interesting and find new things to try together. This could be anything from trying new positions, being together in a place that is not the bed or even bringing some Pink Toys into the mix. This is a great way to explore something together and find out more things about yourself and your partner. You might think there is nothing left to know or try, but you will be surprised what can come out, especially as many of us grow and change over the years!

Communication is fundamentally the most important aspect of all of these suggestions and making sure both of you are comfortable should be a top priority.

The post How to Bring Back Intimacy into Your Relationship first appeared on Lesbian.com.

by Imani Woody
Special to Lesbian.com

Excerpted from Bodies and Barriers: Queer Activists on Health (PM Press, 2020) edited by Adrian Shanker

I’m pretty sure when U.S. actress Bette Davis said, “Getting old ain’t for sissies,” she was not referring to gay older adults specifically but to the challenges that aging can bring to us all, no matter our identity. Old is not the destination to be traveling in our youth-obsessed culture.

I remember when my then seventy-eight-year-old stepmother asked me who I was calling old, when I referred to her and some of her peers as old! Getting there myself, old age can be particularly challenging for LGBT same-gender loving (SGL) baby boomers and older adults born during the Silent Generation.

We all have heard that fifty is the new forty . . . and Disrupt Aging. As if living to be fifty years old and getting older are not only biological markers of the human species but gifts. Ageism is hardwired into our institutional systems and can systematically attack from inside and outside. Ageism is insidious and can be mean-spirited. It can cripple one’s self-esteem and limit access to housing, social services, and societal integration. If you have lived to be in your fifth decade, you have probably experienced ageism. If you are an older woman, you probably began to experience it in your forties. If you are an older gay male, ageism may have knocked on your door in your thirties. Ageism systematically regulates people toward “the back of the bus.” Ageism is so prevalent that many older LGBT/SGL folks are going back into the closet, because being gay and being old is just too hard.

The experiences of an LGBT elder born in the Silent Generation of McCarthyism can be quite different from the experiences of a LGBT baby boomer reared in the times of the Stonewall riots and the Civil Rights Movements.

Here is the voice of a sixty-year-old Black transgender woman: “I’m the biggest advocate for my own care, but frequently it can be frustrating, extremely frustrating. . . . I had an incident with one of the case managers at a large medical facility and when I tried to report it, it seemed like no one wanted to hear it. I completely lost medical coverage and benefits and it was really frustrating to get it back. For about four months I had nothing and tried to explain that my health was in jeopardy. I need medicine for my heart, and I have diabetes. I just want to be as healthy as I can be and sometimes, I get tired, mentally, emotionally, and physically. If I were younger, I don’t think I would be dismissed so easily. You can see the look on their face when they just think you’re being cranky and old.”

Studies comparing key health indicators based on sexual orientation found that LGBT midlife and older adults experience disparities in regard to disability, cardiovascular disease, obesity, stress, and physical health. Emotional distress and social isolation are two of the largest threats to health for LGBT/SGL elders and are exacerbated by perceptions of having been treated badly or discriminated against. There has been empirical evidence of medical professionals not wanting to provide services to LGBT/SGL people.

Many mainstream health and provider service organizations, wellness centers, and retirement communities routinely state that they do not have any LGBT/SGL people on their census or as clients. When an agency states they don’t have LGBT/SGL older adults, they set up a culture of invisibility that can also grow into a culture of oppression for clients and staff alike. Not seeing oneself reflected in the business of the organization can leave LGBT/SGL older adults vulnerable when they are the population most in need of these services to ensure a quality life in old age.

A lifetime of discrimination has reduced the support networks and economic security of many of our LGBT/SGL elders, leaving them vulnerable to housing instability at a critical point in their lives, and many are priced out of housing. The federal guideline states that when 30 percent of your income is for housing, it is a “housing burden.” In many states, a one-bedroom apartment costs more than 100 percent of a social security check.

Research and experience show that when LGBT/SGL people apply for housing in independent senior living communities or attempt to rent and buy apartments and homes, they routinely encounter discrimination, and their housing choices become even starker.
Housing is a social determinant of health, and housing is a human right.

Dr. Imani Woody is the founding director and CEO of Mary’s House for Older Adults, Inc. She has a PhD in Human Services, specializing in nonprofit management. Her thesis is titled Lift Every Voice: A Qualitative Exploration of Ageism and Heterosexism as Experienced by Older African American Lesbian Women and Gay Males When Addressing Social Services Needs.

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I am hot for kissing.

Tonight, I’m determined she will melt from kisses, delivered in a pattern (clever, irresistible) I am going to improvise. (Don’t ask me how.) She doesn’t know I’m kissing her with insects on my mind. Something is making our lips astir. Something somewhere flutters, making me wish I could trap a few of these kisses under glass.

All the political forces of our world are at our lips. Fragments of the world embedded in a kiss. Kissing takes me deeply into politics and thought, race and economics, sexual childhood. How does something sensual swell so dramatically into these dimensions?

Kissing itself is just plain strange. Kissing is neither hetero nor homo; trans nor cis. Children do it, too—even with adults. Asexuals and celibates may partake. But is kissing sex? Odder still, is reading? For adults and kids?

Kissing, in this book, is

strange,

fertile,

inefficient,

treasured,

tonally various,

related to reading,

beautifully

unknowable.

There’s a story here about my kissing and my reading, how I’ve read kissing, made myself out in the kisses I’ve encountered. I am revealed in kisses I bend to.

Take back “revealed”: strewn is more like it; I, whoever I may be, am strewn, splayed across my memories. Memories I love as I distrust them. Thus, in all that follows, I recall kisses from across my life: the “Hollywood kiss” I request when I’m six, raising thorny issues of gender identity; Devin trying to kiss me as Fred bullies me; the chairlift kiss, with God in tow; “interracial kisses” (bullshit term); the accidental kiss we mean and desire during a haircut that will out me—the kiss and haircut blowing my cover; The Kiss, which can never be repeated or rendered; my kissing “marriage” (as a queer concept) while I’m against it; the don’t-share-your-day kiss changing my love.

The trail of varied kisses described in what’s to come makes for a layer cake of words through which I made myself out: “girl” turning “gay” feeling “trans” under “white” facing “God” soaked in “shame,” having a “blast.” An arc of heated memory curves across this book….

On the chance of capture—here is kissing—I am keeping watch. I feel campy as soon as I begin. Visions of testing “kissing” in my laboratory. Testing it in memory is no less humorous. Or surreal. One kiss looms.

A liquid pillow, a depth of liquid feathers. I am softly falling, strangely into subtleness. I never knew subtlety could shout or be so strong. The utter force of softness—lips and the curious depths of her mouth—is shocking me. Tumbling out a window into plumage is the feeling. A vast expanse of feathers, free from any limit.

Suddenly, and stunningly, I am lonely. I’ve just entered a state of no return. This is ‘82. I have entered “gay.” Leapt from a balcony, ledge, window. Defenestration by my own hand. (Really, it’s weirder. Defenestration by my own mouth, throwing myself out a window as it were, throwing myself from my life-to-date, from a space between my lips.) You cannot go back. When you’ve kissed, you’ve crossed a line—so it feels to me—one kiss making you gay forever (but from what? gay juice, gay ways, presumed gay genes?). Now I am rootless from this single act. Also ecstatic, ready to be damned if it comes to that.

And the girl I’m kissing, where is she in all of this? For one thing, we’re in divinity school. Moreover, she’s gorgeous and cynically sweet—and never, to her knowledge, been attracted “in this way.” (We are homo-white: alike in our whiteness, not in our gendering or histories of attraction.) I am thrilled by her, her femme-foreignness quite to the fore. A girl who doesn’t care…. She matters greatly in all her unicorn-uniqueness of a willingness to kiss me knowingly.

Yet, my beautiful girl is A Woman—bold symbolic form. She now stands for “I have kissed A Woman.” Sensation, lover, and sign flood my body in different measures. Swiftly I’m flooded, or pierced, by feathers.

Kathryn Bond Stockton is Distinguished Professor of English, former Associate Vice President for Equity and Diversity, and inaugural Dean of the School for Cultural and Social Transformation at the University of Utah. Two of her books—Beautiful Bottom, Beautiful Shame: Where “Black” Meets “Queer” and The Queer Child—were national finalists for the Lambda Literary Award in LGBT Studies. Her newest book is entitled Making Out. Stockton has received the Presidential Teaching Scholar Award and, in 2013, was awarded the Rosenblatt Prize for Excellence, the highest honor granted by the University of Utah.

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