Modern sexology and mindful sexuality draw on a precise understanding of the mechanisms of desire, emotion, and intimate connection. This glossary proposes 40 key terms, arranged alphabetically, to illuminate the foundational concepts of these fields. Whether you are a therapist, a researcher, or simply curious, these definitions will help you explore the nuances of sensory awakening, emotional blockage, and tantric practice. Through this vocabulary, we invite reflection on a sexuality that is more aligned, respectful, and fulfilling.
To complement this glossary with vocabulary from personal development and emotional awakening, the personal development lexicon at Terre de Je offers 30 complementary definitions on growth, presence, and embodied awareness.
Terms A – C: slow sex foundations and body awareness
Anorgasmia — Inability to reach orgasm despite adequate sexual stimulation and the presence of desire. It may be primary (never experienced) or secondary (arising after a period of normal functioning). Often linked to psychological factors (stress, guilt), physiological causes (hormonal imbalances), or relational dynamics (lack of communication). Cognitive-behavioural or sexological therapies can support recovery.
Secure attachment — A relational pattern in which the individual feels safe in intimacy, without fear of abandonment or excessive need for control. Derived from attachment theory (Bowlby), it supports a fulfilling sexuality by enabling healthy vulnerability and open communication. In contrast, insecure styles (avoidant or anxious) frequently generate sexual tension.
Biodynamics of desire — An approach that studies the physiological and energetic processes underlying sexual desire. It integrates elements such as blood circulation, hormones (testosterone, oestrogens), and the autonomic nervous system. Rather than a purely mechanical view, it emphasises the importance of internal balance — stress, fatigue, nutrition — in the emergence of desire.
Sacral chakra (Svadhisthana) — In tantric and yogic tradition, this energy centre located below the navel is associated with creativity, pleasure, and sexuality. A balanced sacral chakra manifests as sensory fluidity and openness to pleasure. Its blockage may produce difficulties in experiencing desire or tension in the pelvic region.
Somatic connection — A practice of anchoring attention in bodily sensations in order to deepen the sexual experience. Drawing on body-mind and mindfulness approaches, it enables the dissolution of mental distractions to savour the present moment. Particularly valuable for people prone to anxiety or intrusive thoughts during intimacy.
Erogenous body — Any zone of the body capable of generating sexual pleasure, well beyond the classical genital zones. The skin, ears, neck, and even the feet can become sources of stimulation. Erogenous mapping varies from person to person and is enriched through conscious exploration and communication with one’s partner.
Terms D – L: desire, awakening and libido
Spontaneous desire — A form of sexual desire that emerges autonomously, without need for external stimulation or a particular context. Typical of the early stages of a relationship, it contrasts with responsive desire, which requires prior arousal. A balance between the two supports lasting libido.
Responsive desire — Desire that is triggered in response to physical, emotional, or visual stimulation. Unlike spontaneous desire, it requires a “trigger” (a touch, a word, an image). Frequently present in women (Rosemary Basson’s model), it underlines the importance of environment and emotional safety for the emergence of pleasure.
Dyspareunia — Persistent or recurrent pain during sexual activity or penetration. It may be superficial (linked to vaginal dryness or infection) or deep (endometriosis, fibroids). Gynaecological and psychosexual assessment is typically required to identify the cause and propose appropriate solutions.
Sensory awakening — A state of heightened awareness of physical stimuli (touch, temperature, sound) that amplifies the erotic experience. Cultivated through mindfulness exercises or tantric techniques, it transforms the sexual encounter into a meditative exploration. Well suited to those seeking to move beyond automatic, habitual intimacy.
Conscious fantasy — The deliberate use of erotic imagination to stimulate desire while remaining anchored in the present. Unlike fleeting fantasies, it involves an intention and an integration into sexual practice. Valuable for enriching intimate life, especially in the context of routine or reduced libido.
Sexual inhibition — A psychological or emotional block that limits or prevents the expression of desire and pleasure. It may result from family taboos, trauma, religious guilt, or restrictive social messages. Sexological therapy or progressive exploration (e.g. sensate focus) often helps to dissolve these barriers.
Emotional intelligence — The capacity to recognise, understand, and manage one’s own emotions and those of one’s partner during intimacy. In sexology, it manifests as non-violent communication, active listening, and the regulation of reactive states (frustration, excitement). A fulfilling sexuality rests substantially on this relational competence.
Karezza — A form of lovemaking in which the emphasis is placed on emotional connection rather than on performance or orgasm. Developed by American physician Alice Bunker Stockham, it encourages prolonged holding, purposeless caressing, and synchronised breathing to deepen intimacy. The name comes from the Italian carezza, meaning caress.
Kundalini — Vital energy, symbolised as a coiled serpent at the base of the spine in the yogic tradition. Working with Kundalini aims to “awaken” it through yoga, breathwork (pranayama), or meditation. In a sexual context, it is associated with an intense rise of pleasure and an expansion of orgasmic consciousness.
Libido — A Latin term designating the vital energy of sexual desire, encompassing both physical attraction and emotional drive. It is influenced by biological factors (hormones), psychological factors (self-esteem), and social ones (cultural norms). A fluctuating libido is normal; a persistent imbalance may benefit from sexological support. Those looking to go further will find our reading list of slow sex and mindful sexuality books an excellent companion to this glossary.
Terms M – P: meditation, orgasm and mindful presence
Orgasmic meditation — A practice that fuses meditation and sensory exploration to dissolve expectations around orgasm. It invites an observation of sensations without seeking to control them, sometimes enabling prolonged states of pleasure. Valuable for those wishing to transcend performance-oriented sexuality. (See also FAQ entry on its contested organisational context.)
Mindful sex — An approach that applies the principles of mindfulness (presence, non-judgement, observation) to the sexual encounter. It involves attending to sensations, emotions, and breath rather than to outcome. Reduces anxiety and improves satisfaction, including in the context of erectile difficulties or anorgasmia.
Neuroscience of intimacy — The discipline studying the cerebral and neurochemical mechanisms linked to attachment, desire, and orgasm. Oxytocin, for example, plays a key role in bond formation, while dopamine regulates sexual motivation. These findings illuminate the connections between biology and psychology in intimate experience. For a deeper exploration of neurobiology and the brain circuits of desire, our dedicated article covers dopamine, cortisol, and mindfulness-based neural plasticity in full detail.
Oxytocin — Often called the “bonding hormone,” released during embraces, orgasms, or breastfeeding. It promotes trust, reduces stress, and reinforces emotional connection with a partner. Its role in intimacy explains why stable relationships often produce deeper pleasure than fleeting encounters.
Extended orgasm — A prolonged orgasmic experience in which waves of pleasure follow one another without return to a baseline state. Observed in certain tantric or meditative practices, it results from mastery of breathing and complete release of control. Unlike the classic orgasm, it is not always accompanied by intense muscular discharge.
Peri-orgasm — The period immediately preceding or following orgasm, characterised by warmth, tingling, or intensification of pleasure. In mindful sexuality, it is considered a phase to savour rather than to “pass through” rapidly. Some people report altered states of consciousness during this phase.
Sexual mindfulness — The integration of mindfulness principles (mindfulness, non-judgement, observation) into sexuality. It involves attention to sensations, thoughts, and emotions without judgement, and an acceptance of imperfection. Reduces performance anxiety and supports a more authentic connection with oneself and one’s partner.
Ethical polyamory — A relational practice in which a person maintains multiple simultaneous relationships, with the consent and transparency of all partners. Unlike infidelity, it rests on negotiated agreements and ongoing communication. In sexology, it raises questions about emotional management (jealousy, availability) and the construction of non-exclusive bonds.
Embodied presence — A state of consciousness in which the individual is fully anchored in their body and sensations, without distraction by thoughts or projections. In sexuality, it prevents “automatic pilot” and allows intimacy to be lived with renewed intensity. Somatic practices (yoga, meditation) help cultivate this presence.
Terms R – Z: sexual response, slow sex and tantra
Sexual response — A model theorised by Masters and Johnson, later developed by Rosemary Basson, describing the phases of arousal: desire, plateau, orgasm, resolution. Basson’s model integrates psychological dimensions (mood, intimacy) and underlines that desire may be responsive rather than spontaneous. Useful for understanding individual variation.
Sensate focus — A sex therapy technique developed by Masters and Johnson, involving exploration of one’s partner’s body (or one’s own) without orgasmic objective. Partners alternate the roles of explorer and receiver, concentrating on sensation. Reduces performance anxiety and re-establishes ungeneralised pleasure.
Slow sex — An approach that prioritises slowness, sensuality, and depth in the sexual encounter rather than speed or performance. Inspired by tantric traditions and mindfulness, it transforms intimacy into a meditative dance. Ideal for couples seeking connection or individuals stressed by the pace of contemporary life.
Somatisation — The process by which psychological tensions (stress, anxiety) express themselves through physical symptoms, including in the sexual domain. Pelvic pain with no organic cause, for instance, may be linked to an inhibition or an unresolved trauma. A body-mind approach (somatic therapy, hypnosis) is often recommended.
Tantra — A spiritual philosophy and practice originating in India, aiming to harmonise sexual energy with universal consciousness. Tantric sexuality uses techniques of breathing, meditation, and movement to transcend conventional orgasm and access prolonged, shared pleasure.
Sex therapy — A clinical discipline addressing sexual difficulties (dysfunction, trauma, relational conflict) through a holistic (biopsychosocial) approach. Sexologists use tools such as sensate focus, non-violent communication, and sexual education to restore intimate wellbeing.
Conscious transgression — The deliberate exploration of personal or ethical limits in a safe and consensual framework, in order to discover new dimensions of one’s sexuality. Examples include role play, gentle BDSM, or exploration of taboo fantasies. It requires prior reflection on one’s values and clear communication with one’s partner.
Vaginismus — An involuntary contraction of the vaginal muscles making penetration painful or impossible. Often linked to unconscious fears (pain, loss of control) or trauma. A progressive approach (vaginal trainers, cognitive-behavioural therapy) enables the protective reflex to be gradually dissolved.
Tantric yoga — A practice combining postures (asanas), conscious breathing (pranayama), and meditation to awaken sexual energy (Kundalini) and deepen intimate connection. Unlike classical yoga, it integrates the erotic dimension as a spiritual path, supporting a more embodied and more conscious sexuality.
Erogenous zones — Parts of the body that are particularly sensitive to tactile or psychological stimulation, whose activation can generate pleasure or desire. They include the genitals but also the neck, ears, breasts, and many other areas that vary by individual.
Sensory acuity — The capacity to perceive physical and emotional sensations with precision — essential for enriching the sexual experience. It develops through mindfulness and benevolent exploration of oneself and one’s partner.
Sexual wellbeing — A state of physical, emotional, and relational flourishing linked to a healthy and fulfilling sexuality. It encompasses self-confidence, mutual respect, and the freedom to express oneself without taboo.
Informed consent — A free, enthusiastic, and informed agreement between partners, founded on clear communication and respect for each person’s limits. It involves ongoing dialogue and the possibility of withdrawing consent at any moment.
Desire cycle — A model theorising the phases of sexual desire, including arousal, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. It varies between individuals and contexts but helps in understanding one’s own rhythms.
Eros energy — The vital and passionate force that animates intimate relationships, beyond mere physical satisfaction. It is cultivated through attentiveness, creativity, and deep connection between partners.
Mindful sexuality is far more than an act: it is a journey toward oneself and toward the other — an exploration in which every sensation and every emotion becomes a compass. By diving into the present moment, we discover unsuspected layers of pleasure and vulnerability, transforming intimacy into a dance in which body and mind unite. This path demands patience and curiosity, but it offers in return a rare freedom: that of being fully oneself, without mask or judgement. Sexuality becomes a mirror, revealing our deepest desires and our needs for connection. It reminds us that pleasure, when shared with respect, is also an act of creation and of human belonging.