We are all spiritual beings that are living in human bodies. Our bodies are capable of feeling a range of sensations and emotions. One of the feelings we can recognize is pleasure. Pleasure is one of the things that feels specific to having a body. It is something that is available through tactile sensations like sight and touch. Pleasure is considered a worthwhile goal on its own according to some. Many of us have been taught that making pleasure a priority is unnecessary, wrong, and selfish, but it is our right to experience pleasure. There are rituals that can help us tap into pleasure which are shared below, but before sharing them, a list of things that can help with the rituals are included. These are not necessary, but can increase the experience.
Pleasure Correspondence
- Energy points – Sacral
- Tarot cards – The Sun, Queen of Cups, The Empress
- Crystals – Rose quartz, ruby, carnelian, garnet
- Element – Water
- Plants and Scents – Sandalwood, rose, patchouli, ylang ylang, cinnamon
- Colors – Red, orange, pink
- Shell – Cowry
Presence Ritual
A key ingredient to pleasure is that of presence. Most of us are not present during our days for a variety of reasons, but if we are not present, we miss out on pleasure. For the following ritual, all you have to do is bring presence to something that you do during the day. Do things mindfully, like the actions on the list below.
- Watching a sunset
- Taking a walk
- Eating a meal
- Having sex
- Gardening
- Having a conversation
- Listening to a poem or song
- Doing yoga, running, dancing (moving in some way)
Ground yourself ahead of time with some deep breathing, petting an animal, or whatever else grounds you. As you undertake your mindful activity, keep breathing deep and embody the experience. If you feel yourself drifting away from mindfulness, release the thought and return to focus on your breathing. This will help you attune to the pleasure of the moment.
Exploring the Senses
For this ritual, gather items to stimulate the senses, some will be shared below. Get creative with the stuff already around you.
- Silky fabrics
- Fruit
- Scented massage oil
- Eye mask
- Crystals with a texture
- Candles
- Incense
- Sensual music
- A necklace chain
- Velvety fabrics
Once you choose the items, set up somewhere comfortable. Light the candles if they are being used and breath deeply, tuning into your senses. Connect with the pleasure through the body as you breath deeply and use your intuitive tools. Try to stay present as you rub oil on your body or lightly drag the necklace across your stomach. As you continue, notice what happens with your body. Keep attuned to your senses and repeat mantras like “I deserve pleasure.” If shame arises, tell your thoughts that it is okay to feel pleasure and honor it as you return to your session. Take as much time as you need. When you are finished, place your hands on your body and speak loving words to the parts that need it.
Open to More Pleasure Ritual
This ritual is meant to support you in places where your body blocks pleasure and moving them away so you can truly enjoy. Blocks can be removed in fun ways, allowing us to be open to more pleasure. For this ritual, find a sacred space and put on some music or light some candles. Do what feels right for yourself.
Start out somewhere comfortable like a bed or yoga mat. Once you are comfortable, feel where your body holds back pleasure. When ready, start moving the blocks in a fun way, perhaps moving the blocks is pleasurable. You can try orgasm, laughter, roaring, moaning, circling, dancing, vibrating or whatever you want. Let your creativity take over to move these blocks. When you feel complete and open, take a moment to relax and breathe. Pay attention to your new state and journal about the experience. Most of all, have fun.