As rehab professionals, we're often hyper-focused on helping our clients improve their physical function and manage pain. But what about the equally important aspects of emotional and sexual wellbeing? In this episode Erin had the chance to sit down with Dr. Rose Schlaff, a pelvic PT and sex counselor, to discuss how neuroscience-based techniques can unlock greater intimacy, desire, and pleasure.
Dr. Rose shared her "Reclaim the Flame" method, which combines neuroscience, somatics, and sex counseling to help clients overcome societal pressures and unrealistic standards around sex and relationships. One key component is working with the cranial nerves through simple 30-second exercises. She explained that by grounding into the nervous system and using cranial nerve exercises and an understanding of polyvagal theory, we can help clients shift out of stuck states like anxiety, lack of focus, or low libido. These quick movements that stimulate the eyes, face, and other cranial nerves can create rapid shifts in our physiology and emotional state.
You will learn how eye movements actually release dopamine and how to use these to reset your nervous system or your clients. You will also have the opportunity to follow along with an exercise to make a shift yourself during the episode. Additionally, if you’re nervous or don’t know where to start having these conversations with clients we’ll give you the steps you need to help them without the embarrassment.
As we discussed, our relationships, stress levels, and feelings of desire (or lack thereof) can have a profound impact on our nervous system and overall wellbeing. Dr. Rose emphasized the importance of clinicians feeling safe and comfortable to talk about any topic with clients, and using self-regulation techniques, in order to facilitate better co-regulation.
She encouraged clinicians to normalize conversations around sex and intimacy, even if it feels outside of our typical scope. By tapping into the power of the nervous system through techniques like eye exercises and visualization, we can help our clients (and ourselves) experience greater ease, excitement, and connection in all areas of life - not just the bedroom.
It's an empowering reminder that holistic health encompasses so much more than just the physical body. To learn more from Dr. Rose and explore her free resources use the links below.. And keep an eye out for her upcoming trainings on trauma-informed pelvic and sexual health coaching.
https://www.instagram.com/bewellwithrose/
Free 15 min call: https://www.bewellwithrose.com/schedule-now
Free guide: www.bewellwithrose.com/sds
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