It was one of the sweetest and, surprisingly, most pleasurable gestures I had ever experienced. Once, right after taking a shower, a partner asked me to sit down and spontaneously started to blow dry my hair. Sex has become a safe space for me to practice asking for what I want in a relatively low-stakes situation. I know it seems obvious, but it’s so true that I have to emphasize it: People can only meet your needs if you make what you want clear. Listening to my intuition, no matter the situation, has rarely steered me wrong. When something is a bad fit, I notice that I feel fearful, anxious, and have a lot of spiraling thoughts. I feel calm and can see the pros and cons. I know something is right for me-in sex or at work-when I feel curious, connected, and attentive. I listen to everyone’s advice, but then I listen most to what feels right in my body. Sex is being able to connect with your partner or partners, to share yourself with people in an intimate way through trust, respect, boundaries, and mutual understanding of each other.In the span of a week, 20 smart investors can recommend I take my business in 20 different directions. You should never feel unsafe in any relationship that forces you to have unprotected sex. Communicating about practicing safer sex and getting tested often can prevent the spread of STI/STD.

Open communication with your sexual partner(s) will help everyone involved have a better understanding of each other's wants, needs, and comfortability in regards to sex. Practicing consensual communication during any sexual encounters regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, ability or race.Learning and understanding the importance of practicing safer sex.Respecting your own body as well as others.

Practicing and promoting healthy, safe, and consensual sexual behaviors with yourself and/or others.

Feeling comfortable with identifying or exploring your gender expression, sexual orientation and sexuality.

For a healthier sex life, try practicing the tips below: Creating a Sex Positive Culture at SF State: Verbal communication is essential for obtaining sexual consent so talking about sex should be a normal part of every sexual encounter. Whether it’s your first time having sex, a hook up, or with a long time partner, talking about sex can be difficult.

Getting in touch with your sexuality