Religious concepts of holiness are belief systems that dictate how humans interact with each other physically and spiritually. These concepts have been around for thousands of years and have evolved throughout history into different denominations and sects. Holiness is often defined as purity, sanctity, piety, devoutness, reverence, devotion, godliness, virtue, morality, and righteousness. How do religious ideas influence people's ability to remain present in bodily sensation during intimacy? This question has been studied extensively by psychologists and researchers who seek to understand the relationship between spiritual beliefs and sexual behaviors.
According to some studies, there may be an inverse relationship between religiosity and sexual behavior. People who identify themselves as very religious tend to engage in less frequent sex than those who don't attend religious services regularly.
These findings do not necessarily mean that religious people avoid physical touch or intimacy altogether. Religious people may experience more guilt, shame, and anxiety when engaging in sexual activities, making them feel guilty about their desires and actions. These feelings can lead to a disconnect from their bodies and difficulty being fully present during intimate moments. In addition, religious teachings often emphasize abstinence until marriage or procreation, which can affect one's ability to be mindful of bodily sensations during sex.
Some religions encourage physical contact as part of their rituals or practices.
Certain forms of yoga involve partnered poses where couples connect through touch and movement. Tantric yoga involves prolonged eye gazing and physical contact with a partner, enhancing bodily awareness and sensation. Similarly, certain Native American traditions incorporate dance ceremonies and chants that promote connection and pleasure through movement and sound. In these cases, religious teachings reinforce the importance of embodiment rather than detachment from physical experience.
Religious concepts of holiness have varying effects on our ability to remain present in bodily sensation during intimacy. Some belief systems discourage physical intimacy while others promote it within specific contexts. Understanding how religion influences our sexual experiences is crucial for creating healthy relationships based on trust, communication, and mutual respect.