Much of our understanding of what enables us to experience pleasure counterintuitively comes from the more abundant research into pain.
When we investigate the brain correlates of pleasure more closely, we discover that the pathways for pleasure and pain are closely intertwined.
When we avoid pain, we are also learning to avoid pleasure. We shut down emotionally as well as physically.
Dr. Nan
Blog
Neuroscience Hacks for Enhancing Happiness: Harnessing your attention on new ways to be for the new year.
Jan 14, 2023
Most people make resolutions about what they should do to be happy. But research shows that harnessing one's attention on radical acceptance of what is and focusing on how you get to be in the new year will increase your ability to enjoy life. Want to make New Year's...
The Heartbreak of the Roe v. Wade Reversal A Personal Perspective: Three ways to actively cope and feel empowered.
Sep 12, 2022
In the few months since the supreme court overturned Roe v. Wade, we have been dealing with waves of distress emanating from all directions. In addition to my upset (which is considerable, motivating me to pen this post as an attempt to actively cope), my clients,...
What is Female Orgasm Disorder? Tools and tips for managing challenges to experiencing the big “O”
Aug 5, 2022
Female Orgasm Disorder—or problems experiencing orgasm--is one of the most urgent and common concerns for which clients seek my services. It is the second most frequently reported sexual problem (with lack of sexual desire being number one) and is typically expressed...
Ask Dr. Nan: What if having sex hurts?
Mar 30, 2021
Why talking about sexual pain disorders is key to promoting awareness and fighting the stigma and shame In my book Why Good Sex Matters: Understanding the Neuroscience of Pleasure for a Smarter, Happier, and More Purpose-Filled life I explore how the ability to...
The Dark Side of Sexuality: What cults like NXIVM can teach us about ourselves
Oct 16, 2020
Watch #SeducedSTARZ: Inside The NXIVM Cult