In this episode of The Sexuality Clinic Podcast: Exploring Intimacy and Relationships, I invite you to pause… breathe… and reconnect with yourself.

We dive into how today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world affects not just our mental health—but also our relationships, intimacy, and sexual well-being. From the inner critic that echoes old voices from childhood, to the ways self-compassion can rewire how we show up in love and connection, this conversation is both tender and practical.

I share personal reflections, explain the link between nervous system health and intimacy, and offer a simple but powerful mirror affirmation practice you can start today.

If you’ve been feeling disconnected, burnt out, or hard on yourself… this episode is for you.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why your body pushes back with exhaustion and anxiety

• How internalized criticism impacts intimacy and sexual connection

• The science and power of affirmations for healing self-talk

• A guided mirror practice to help rebuild self-love and presence

Connect with Roxanna on Instagram: @TheSexualityClinic
Visit my website for individual or partnered private appointments and resources: www.thesexualityclinic.com
Listen to previous podcast episodes on body connection, pleasure, and communication.

Ever wondered what it’s like to work with a Clinical Sexologist? In this episode, host Roxanna Smallwood, a Canadian Clinical Sexologist, breaks down exactly what she does—and doesn’t do—in her talk-only sessions focused on sexual wellness and pleasure.

Roxanna supports individuals and couples experiencing challenges like low sexual desire, sexual pain, arousal concerns, orgasmic difficulties, erectile issues, premature ejaculation, and more. She also works with those exploring their relationship with pleasure, body image, or overcoming shame around sexuality—especially when there’s no clear medical cause.

You’ll hear:

• What a talk-only sexology session looks like

• The difference between a Clinical Sexologist and a medical provider or therapist

• How Roxanna helps clients understand their anatomy, relationships, and turn-ons

• Why getting support around your sexuality isn’t just okay—it’s empowering

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever thought, “Is this something I can talk to someone about?” Spoiler alert: yes, it is.

Learn more or book a session at thesexualityclinic.com

Welcome back to The Sexuality Clinic Podcast: Exploring Pleasure and Relationships. I’m your host, Roxanna Smallwood—Clinical Sexologist, educator, and your trusted companion on the journey toward greater connection, pleasure, and confidence.

In today’s episode, we dive deep into the true meaning of intimacy. Beyond sex or physical closeness, intimacy is about emotional safety, mutual respect, and the courage to be seen. We explore four key types of intimacy—emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and physical—and how they weave together to create stronger, more fulfilling relationships.

Then, I’ll walk you through 8 practical steps to deepen intimacy, including:

• Being present

• Practicing curiosity

• Sharing vulnerability

• Offering honour and appreciation

• Owning accountability

• Embracing sensuality

• Bringing playfulness

• • Welcoming adventure

• These tools can transform your connections—romantic, platonic, and personal.

  🧠 Want to go deeper? Visit thesexualityclinic.com for free tools, self-guided courses, and curated intimacy products to support your journey.

  🎧 Let’s redefine intimacy—one step at a time.

Welcome back to The Sexuality Clinic Podcast: Exploring Pleasure and Relationships! In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked but incredibly powerful aspects of intimacy: Sensory Play.

What is sensory play in sexuality? It’s the intentional engagement of your five senses—sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch—to deepen your pleasure, boost body awareness, and build intimacy. Whether you’re looking to spark something new in a long-term relationship or explore your own desires, this episode will show you how sensory play can transform your sexual experiences.

We’ll break down how each sense can be used to heighten arousal and connection:

• Sight: the power of visual cues like candles, lingerie, and eye contact
• Sound: from playlists to the sensuality of your own (or a partners) voice
• Smell: how scents can trigger emotion and enhance pleasure
• Taste: adding flavour through edible oils or sensual food play
• Touch: textures, temperatures, and tools that invite the body to come alive

You’ll also learn the essentials of consent and communication in sensory exploration, plus practical tools and accessories to try—like feathers, blindfolds, and lubricants—to help you build confidence as you experiment.

This episode is ideal for beginners and the curious alike. You’ll get tips for easing into sensory play, ideas for setting the mood, and encouragement to explore without pressure or perfection.

Ready to elevate your intimacy in simple but deeply satisfying ways? Tune in then visit thesexualityclinic.com for resources, body-safe products, and downloadable guides to keep your exploration going.

As always, stay curious, stay connected, and prioritize your pleasure.

Welcome back to The Sexuality Clinic Podcast: Exploring Pleasure and Relationships! In this episode, we’re opening the door to the exciting and expansive world of bedroom accessories—a topic that blends fun, education, and personal discovery.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore pleasure products or you’re looking to level up your current experience, this episode will guide you through a range of accessories that can deepen your connection with yourself and your partner. From Pleasure Air Technology and external stimulators to dual-action toys, constriction rings, and anal play essentials, we’ll break down how each category works, who they’re best for, and what benefits they bring to your sexual well-being.

You’ll learn:

• How non-contact stimulation through air technology can heighten sensitivity

• Why external and internal toys offer different types of pleasure

• How couples can use tools to strengthen intimacy

• What safety tips and features to look for—especially with anal or constriction toys

• And how to choose the right accessories based on comfort, experience, and curiosity

Whether you are solo or partnered, these tools can foster better communication, more confidence, and more satisfying sexual experiences. This episode is especially for those curious about sexual wellness, looking to explore in a shame-free space, or hoping to reconnect with pleasure in a deeper way.

🎧 Tune in and get inspired to elevate your intimacy.
Visit thesexualityclinic.com to explore pleasure products, download your free Ultimate Sexual Wellness Checklist, and browse courses that help you embrace every part of your sexual self.

Stay curious. Stay connected. And always prioritize your pleasure.

keywords: sexual wellness, prioritize pleasure, adult toys

What drives your sexual desire, and what holds it back? In this episode of The Sexuality Clinic Podcast: Exploring Pleasure and Relationships, we delve into the science of arousal through the lens of Emily Nagoski’s groundbreaking work Come As You Are. Together, we’ll unpack the Dual Control Model—a framework that explains how our “accelerators” (turn-ons) and “brakes” (turn-offs) influence our sexual experiences.

Learn how to identify the unique factors that spark or inhibit your desire, from emotional connection and stress to life’s daily demands. We’ll explore practical tools, like journaling exercises to map your triggers, strategies for rebalancing shared responsibilities in relationships, and the role of open communication in creating the right emotional and physical context for intimacy.

Discover why household chores, unresolved arguments, or even subtle changes in mood can impact your desire, and how you can reset the balance with simple but powerful changes. This episode is your guide to understanding what truly turns you on—and off—so you can create deeper intimacy and satisfaction in your relationships.

Ready to transform your approach to desire? Tune in now and take the first step toward unlocking your unique keys to connection and pleasure!

Show Notes: thesexualityclinic.com/006

Keywords: intimacy, desire, pleasure, sex, relationships, love, connection, sexuality, sexual expression, self-care, anatomy

Welcome to The Sexuality Clinic Podcast: Exploring Pleasure and Relationships! Hosted by Canadian Clinical Sexologist, Roxanna Smallwood, this podcast dives into all things sexual health, intimacy, and personal connection. Here, we debunk myths, embrace body positivity, and foster a shame-free space to explore the vast landscape of sexuality and relationships.

Each episode invites listeners to connect with themselves and others on a deeper level. From understanding anatomy and physiology to discovering what fuels desire, we cover the science and the art of pleasure. Through open conversations and expert insights, we explore the importance of self-acceptance, communication, and cultivating healthy boundaries in relationships. You’ll find practical tools for body appreciation, tips for enhancing intimacy, and powerful exercises to help build confidence in and out of the bedroom.

Whether you’re on a journey of self-discovery, aiming to deepen a partnership, or simply curious about sexual wellness, this podcast is for you. Tune in and let’s start the conversation—because understanding your body, desires, and relationships is the first step toward living a more empowered, connected life.

Subscribe now to The Sexuality Clinic Podcast and take the next step toward embracing the pleasure and connection you deserve!

thesexualityclinic.com

Keywords: intimacy, intercourse, pleasure, sex, relationships, love, connection, sexuality, sexual expression, self-care, anatomy, body literacy

In this episode of The Sexuality Clinic Podcast: Exploring Pleasure and Relationships, we celebrate the diversity and complexity of our anatomy. Host Roxanna Smallwood, Clinical Sexologist, demystifies the structure and function of both male and female genitalia, underscoring that every body is unique and beautiful in its own way.

We dive into the clitoris and penis, exploring their similarities as homologous structures and their distinct roles in pleasure, arousal, and function. For example, while the visible part of the clitoris is small, its internal structure plays a significant role in sensation and sexual response. The penis, with its multiple functions, also varies widely in size and shape, reinforcing the importance of embracing one’s body without comparison.

Listeners will learn about the body’s natural self-lubrication mechanisms, debunk common myths about genital function, and gain a deeper understanding of the beauty in anatomical diversity. Exercises such as mirror work and self-acceptance mantras offer practical ways to foster self-compassion and body positivity.

Whether you’re exploring your own body or learning more to enhance a partnership, this episode offers knowledge, confidence, and an invitation to celebrate the unique ways our bodies are designed for connection and pleasure.

Keywords: intimacy, pleasure, sex, relationships, love, connection, sexuality, sexual expression, self-care, anatomy