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,...
Seven Ways to Increase Your Sexual Satisfaction
Feb 2, 2022
First and foremost, good sex is about being present.
It’s important not to judge one’s erotic self or the erotic experience, but rather to practice radical self-acceptance.
During sex, one’s mind may go into “spectatoring” mode, being goal-directed or self-conscious. The key is to simply notice it without judging
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...
What is Female Ejaculation, and Why It’s Good For You
Feb 24, 2020
Buckle up, folks, we’re about to dive into a controversial sex topic: how to squirt during sex. “Squirting,” more accurately known as female ejaculation (and sometimes called “shejaculate” by the internet), remains one of the more highly debated and controversial...