Thanks for reading Raising Good Humans on Substack. Please consider a paid subscription to support this work and get access to my invite only Ask Me Anything Parent Group at the end of every month. Paid subscribers will also get a preview of my new book, and the chance to participate in a book club in the Fall. Founding members on Substack also receive a private 1:1 consultation with me, where we can focus on any of the issues that matter most to you.
I have been expanding the range of topics on Raising Good Humans Podcast, and it may seem like conversations about menopause and sex do not have to do with parenting, but I don’t think that’s necessarily accurate.
We so often mistake true self-care as selfish - despite the research telling us that taking care of ourselves is a critical process in being able to show up for our children. Our narrow definition of self-care as a spa day (though I love a spa day) or unrealistic girls’ nights out (though cultivating your friendships is important), cheats us out of the care and attention we NEED on our bodies, our connections, and our relationships.
In talking about sex this week - and particularly the ways in which women can ask for and talk about what they need for arousal - I pushed the envelope on what is defined as health and wellness. We know that a healthy sex life impacts all of the aspects of our lives, including our mental health. So it goes without saying that in order to be our best selves as a parent, we need to feel our own tank is full. We can’t give from a place of deprivation. We can’t feel seen in our relationships when we don’t honor our own needs. We can’t be present for others without attention paid to our health.
I really enjoyed hearing about Smart Sex from Emily Morse and getting to bring her extensive experience speaking with people about sex after kids. Have a listen for some tips and tools and keep letting me know what you want to hear about!