Eroticism: definition... and some necessary reflections

What is eroticism and how to integrate it successfully in our love life?

When we talk about eroticismor hear someone mention an erotic experience or sensation, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Sex and love. Possibly...

You only have to turn on the TV or flip through a magazine or newspaper to realize that, nowadays, the media has commercialized sex and sexuality so much that this is precisely what we think of when we hear words like this. There is so much sexual connotation in some media that sometimes we no longer know if they are seducing us or selling a shampoo, for example.

For others, the term evokes mental images that refer to genital organs and sexual practice, as well as some health issues (at best) that include eroticism, such as sexually transmitted diseases and contraceptive methods. And for a few others it is natural to talk about related topics.

Definition of eroticism

But what is eroticism? What is an erotic sensation? What do we mean by it? Does it really have to do only with sexual practices? How much do we not know about it?

There is little specific information on the subject; most research refers to eroticism with vague or not very exhaustive explanations of the concept. For example, is usually defined as communication and activity in couples or individually, involving different emotions, feelings and attitudes that lead to genital stimulation and orgasm in search of sexual pleasure. genital stimulation and orgasm in search of sexual pleasure.

Clarifying concepts

Going to the origin of the term, the word eroticism originates from the Greek eros in reference to the God Eros who is associated with sensuality, sexual desire and pleasure, as well as with the behaviors that manifest themselves when there is attraction between two or more beings.

Eroticism is a human characteristic; and indeed, the concept itself refers to the manifest behaviors and attitudes that incite sexual interaction and activity.Erotic behaviors, such as: caresses, kisses, hugs, oral stimulation, masturbation, among others that generally lead to sexual intercourse and/or directly to the sensation of sexual pleasure of those who practice them and that do not necessarily seek reproduction with these behaviors.

How and when is eroticism expressed?

How, when and where these behaviors are manifested depends directly on the personality of each individual. depends directly on each person's personality, tastes and preferences, as well as other factorsas well as other factors such as socioeconomic level, type of culture, family customs, religious practices, geographic location, etc. These practices allow the individual to be in contact with his body, to identify and perceive those stimuli that are pleasurable and, of course, also allows him to know those practices that are not, both for him and for the person with whom he shares these experiences.

Eroticism involves the whole person: physically and psychologically, it represents the way in which he expresses for himself and others, his desires, fantasies and innermost feelings. There are innumerable ways in which each one of us brings these desires to reality or not, and manifests our "erotic being": from a romantic dinner on the beach to a session of sadomasochism, a threesome or a couple exchange, to mention a few. Not all of these erotic manifestations are exotic in nature or border on the extreme.

The importance of erotic language

The erotic language does not have a specific characteristic, it involves each and every one of our senses.. It is composed of sensations and warm stimuli that shiver the epidermis, it also involves feelings such as love and desire, the exchange of glances, words, gestures and signs that indicate to the other that one is ready to take these sensations to the maximum.

Any behavior that represents a source of sexual pleasure for the person can be considered an erotic sensation, this can be provoked with one's own body, that of the partner or external objects such as toys, feathers, ice, or others; there is a Wide range of articles that allow enriching the sexual experience, specialized stores and even annual fairs that promote and inform, also the participation of health professionals and experts in sexuality is increasing, allowing the erotic life to be even more pleasant; guiding and educating the population in order to improve the experience.

Some reflections on eroticism

The concept of eroticism is something complex and subjective, therefore, difficult to pigeonhole. According to sexologists there is no such thing as a normal or abnormal practice when it comes to eroticism and sexuality.. The response to an erotic stimulus depends on the desires and fantasies of each person and something that is pleasurable for some, may even be painful and abominable for others. Therefore, I think it is the responsibility of each one of us to define what is or is not erotic and pleasurable, to communicate it and to be honest at the moment of such practices in order to maintain our physical and psychological integrity.

I consider that eroticism is part of a human need, not only to receive but also to provide pleasure, a pleasure that can be limited only to physical and mechanical stimulation or extend as far as the limits of our imagination allow, resulting in a complete state of physical and mental pleasure.

A way to rediscover ourselves through pleasure.

Erotic practices bring us closer to ourselves and to each other in a unique way, since it is in intimacy that those personality traits that are usually hidden or private it is in intimacy that personality traits that are generally kept hidden or private come to the surface..

It is essential to know our limits and respect those of our partner so that the practice of eroticism is pleasurable, lasting and constant. "Good communication both with oneself and with one's partner is key for us to be able to exploit the erotic potential that characterizes us.

Developing an erotic identity is vital for the psychological well-being of the individual. Fortunately, today we have multiple tools such as books, websites, manuals, educational and health institutions, brochures and fairs that are publicly available and that allow us to learn about the various aspects that involve the erotic identity. Being informed and responsible with our sexual behaviors depends directly on each individual.