Have you wanted to explore your sexuality but are having a difficult time due to core beliefs within your religion? Are you experiencing an internal conflict built from your religious upbringing and the messages you received about sexuality? Or perhaps you’re trying to reconcile keeping your faith while being true to your sexual identity?
If you felt connected with a question above, then I have an activity aimed at supporting you. This activity will help you explore your personal sexuality and how your spiritual environment has impacted your ability to connect with and understand yourself. I encourage you to read through the entirety of the post before starting the activity as there are helpful directions throughout.
Preparing for the Activity:
For this activity, you will need a computer, journal and pen, or canvas and paint (painting can be a GREAT way to begin processing these vulnerable questions!). Set aside a practical amount of time; I recommend starting with 20–30 minutes. Adjust the time as needed if you need more or less time throughout the activity. I strongly recommend finding a space where you will not be interrupted and where you feel comfortable and safe.
With each question listed below, I encourage you to simply free type, write, or creatively express your immediate thoughts. There are no wrong answers or ideas. This is an expression of your experience and therefore it cannot be wrong. Take as much time as you need to feel complete in this activity. Please note that this activity is meant to be a starting point to healing and exploration!
Speak and Notice
Before taking time to answer the questions, I encourage you to ask the question aloud and then simply sit with yourself noticing how your body responds. Some notice very little in response while others notice a significant reaction. As stated before, there is no wrong or right reaction. Your reactions are simply data and information for you to notice.
- What messages have I received about sexuality in my religion? Is it something to be feared? Glorified? Damned? Denied? Celebrated?
- Who are the people that have defined how I understand sexual development? Do I trust these folks? Do I feel seen and heard by these folks?
- How do I define sexuality? Is my definition congruent with that of my religion’s? Is it different? Is it in conflict?
- How do I define my sexuality? Am I fearful or ashamed of my sexuality? Is there space for my sexuality in my religion?
Now that you’ve taken time to sit with each question and notice any sensations that arise in you body, you will start to freely express your response to each question via typing, writing, or painting. Once you begin responding to each question, take notice of your body’s physical response for a second time. Take a minute to notice any shifts in your body. Are you able to verbalize the shifts in your body? Is there an expansiveness where once there was pressure? Was there a pit in your stomach before? Is it loosening now? Are your shoulders dropping and relaxing? ANY response is a good response.
Integrating Somatic Awareness:
Somatic therapy emphasizes the connection between the mind and body, recognizing that our bodies hold onto experiences and emotions. By tuning into bodily sensations—such as tension, warmth, or discomfort—you can gain deeper insights into how your religious upbringing has influenced your relationship to your sexuality through the avenue of your own body.
For instance, you might feel a tightness in your chest when recalling certain teachings or a sense of relief when acknowledging your true identity. These bodily responses are valuable information that will be guides to your healing process.
Listen and Pause
What kind of reaction do you notice in your body? Is it strong? Resistant? Something else? Please listen to what your body is saying and do not push it further than it wants to go. Connie Sobczak states, “you treat [your body] with respect by listening to its wisdom so you know what you need in order to thrive.” I am in complete agreement. Take the time to practice respect toward your body by taking a pause from the activity as needed.
If you find it difficult, overwhelming, or scary to pay attention to or notice your body, then that is perfectly okay! After taking a look at the questions and understanding the exercise, you might be telling yourself there’s no way I’m going to do this on my own. Way to understand yourself! I implore you to listen to the part of you that knows that going through these questions alone is too much.
What this tells me is you need the support of a safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate person to support you in understanding the deep impact of your religious upbringing on your sexual development and identity. The good news is, we are here to support you in this healing process!
Why Choose Somatic Therapy Partners?
Find Your Perfect Therapist:
At Somatic Therapy Partners, you won’t be limited to just one therapist. Our team includes multiple highly trained clinicians offering somatic therapy, which means you’re more likely to find a therapist who is the right fit for you. Unlike many practices where only one therapist specializes in this modality, our collaborative team approach provides more personalized options so that you’re not stuck trying to make it work with just one person.
51+ Years of Experience:
No matter how complex your trauma or how long you’ve been in therapy, our combined 51+ years of experience means we meet you where you are. We blend multiple therapeutic modalities with somatic therapy to help you reconnect with your body, find clarity, and reclaim your joy.
When you are ready to begin exploring how your religion has impacted your own sexual development and sexual identity, I invite you to contact me for a consult. Together, we will explore the terrain, uncover the beauty, and support the parts needing healing. There is no greater privilege than to join someone on their own journey of healing through the context of sexuality and faith.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, many individuals find ways to integrate their faith and sexuality in a manner that feels authentic and affirming. Therapy can provide a supportive space to explore this integration.
Feelings of shame or guilt are common, especially when religious teachings have labeled certain aspects of sexuality as wrong. Through compassionate exploration, therapy can help you understand and alleviate these feelings.
Somatic therapy focuses on the mind-body connection, helping you become aware of how your body holds onto past experiences and emotions in a sensational way. This awareness can lead to profound healing and self-acceptance through use of somatic interventions to move the shame through the body instead of it feeling “stuck” in the body.
Absolutely. Therapy is a collaborative process, and you set the pace. Your therapist will respect your boundaries and support you wherever you are in your journey.