Breathwork for Sexual Anxiety
July 10, 2026 DOI: 10.4324/9781003671978-64 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Intervention | Breathwork |
| Topics | Anxiety Breathwork |
| Keywords | Sexual arousal Psychosexual development Sexual dysfunction Sexual behavior Somatic cell Clinical psychology Developmental psychology Personality Libido Sensation |
| Key points | Argues that breathwork can regulate the autonomic nervous system, reduce anxiety, and anchor present-moment awareness, thereby facilitating healthy sexual engagement and helping clients reconnect with sensation and desire in psychosexual therapy. |
Abstract
Sexual anxiety – whether rooted in trauma, performance-related shame, or dysregulated arousal – impedes intimacy, pleasure, and connection. Breathwork, a foundational somatic practice, offers an accessible means to regulate the ANS, reduce anxiety, and anchor present-moment awareness, core to healthy sexual engagement. Within psychosexual therapy, structured breathing promotes embodiment, somatic safety, and trust, assisting clients to reconnect with sensation and desire.