Exploring Your Sexuality? Know What It Means

So, What Exactly is Sexuality?

Sexuality is a term we use to talk about getting to know our bodies and the connections we have with others. This terminology covers everything about us – our values and beliefs, our bodies, sex, desires, relationships, gender, behaviors, fantasies, thoughts, and feelings. Identities such as gay, lesbian, and sapiosexual are all about how people experience their sexual orientations. Even though there's some language that many people agree on, it's really important to remember that these identities are personal, and everyone might see them in their own unique way. Feel free to express yourself in the language that suits you best.

Sexuality and Gender Identity

Are sex and gender really the same thing? Even though people often mix up “sex” and “gender,” they actually refer to two completely different parts of who someone is. Sex is all about the biological traits we’re born with, like our reproductive organs. On the other hand, gender includes the social, behavioral, and cultural aspects that shape a person's identity. Some common ways people describe their gender are gender fluid, transgender, or non-binary.

Sexuality includes a bunch of different parts, and each one is pretty unique to us. It's really crucial to get that sexuality is something you define for yourself. Sexuality is something that evolves and shifts over time. Diving into our sexuality, while keeping consent and sexual rights in mind, plays a big role in our overall health and wellness. Check out this spot where you can pick the language that suits you best.

Exploring the Spectrum of Sexuality and Orientation

There are numerous methods to express your sexuality. You may identify yourself based on the persons to whom you are or are not sexually attracted, either physically or emotionally. Some of these identities include gay, lesbian, asexual, and pansexual. Alternatively, you may identify yourself based on the behaviours or relationships associated with your sexuality, such as polyamory or a specific kink.

What Does It Mean if I’m Questioning My Sexuality?

It's totally normal to question your sexuality at any point in your life. Lots of people think that sexuality is something that can be either fixed or fluid, existing on a spectrum. It's totally okay to question things for yourself. As we grow up and go through different experiences, our personal beliefs and values about the world and our role in it start to form and evolve. It's totally okay to question your sexuality. Some folks see themselves as questioning people for the long haul. It's totally normal to feel a bit scared about what your sexual identity could mean for your future, or you might be feeling really excited about all the possibilities ahead. You’re probably feeling a mix of these emotions right now. That's totally normal and makes sense while you're figuring things out.

If you are questioning your sexuality, it may mean:

 1.    You met someone new. Perhaps you met someone in person, online, or in the media who used a term to describe their sexuality that resonated with you.

2.    You became attracted to someone new. This attraction might lead you to question your sexuality if you become attracted to someone different than the “usual” type of person you have been attracted to.

3.    You’ve engaged in self-reflecting or introspection by yourself or with a therapist. Looking closely at your life, relationships, and choices, could result in emotional changes or mental shifts that make you question your sexuality.

4.    Your beliefs and values have matured. Your sexuality, like other personal perceptions, beliefs, and values, has matured and changed as you get older and have new life experiences.

5.    You are human! As humans, we are always evolving in various ways, including sexuality.

Let’s normalize questioning your sexuality. It can happen to anyone at any time. Unfortunately, the media and others can make it feel like uncertainty about your sexual identity is a problem. Luckily for you, there’s no right or wrong way to think while going through this process.

Questioning sexuality does not mean:

 Ø  That you have to redefine your sexuality or sexual preferences

Ø  That you have to “come out” or make a public announcement. If you speak to others and ask how you identify, feel free to say you’re unsure. You don’t need to make it work for anyone else.

Ø  That there is something wrong with you

Ø  That you need to break up with your partner

Ø  That you’ve been lying about who you are

Ø  That you have to explore this on your own

Ø  That you have a certain amount of time to “figure it out”

 Emotional Exercises to Help Discover Your Sexuality

Embracing your sexuality is such a unique adventure. Everyone's path is different, and that's what makes it so special.  Just a little reminder: you are never alone in this journey. It's totally normal to question your sexuality or gender at some point in your life! Some of us dive into this exploration more often than others, and that's perfectly okay. Take a moment to reflect on the labels that resonate with you, the types of people that catch your eye, and the kinds of experiences that excite you or don’t vibe with you. Always reach out to your loved ones if it feels right. Discover amazing in-person chances to dive into these questions. Explore some emotional exercises to dive deep into understanding attraction and identity.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed with all those questions about your sexuality swirling around? You're not alone. Check out the internet for some amazing guidance! So many amazing resources in the virtual world to help you on this journey. Looking for a supportive space? Consider joining an online group where you can connect and chat with amazing folks from the LGBTQ+ community or seek therapy from psychotherapist trained in LGBTQIA+ matters