In a world where sex education is failing, and is still taboo for some, being sex-positive is so important. When you're sex-positive, you're not just open-minded to the topic in general, but you have a progressive outlook on sex, all realms of it, and should your friends share their kink or fetish with you, you don't judge them for it. Being sex-positive means accepting just how complicated and complex sexuality is and respecting that.
"It would be ideal if all sex-positive folks were surrounded by other sex-positive folks, but we know this usually isn't the case," clinical sexologist, and sex therapist for LifeStyles Condoms, Rena McDaniel, MEd, tells Bustle. "It is certainly easier to be sex-positive when you are surrounded by sex positivity in your everyday life, but it's entirely possible to seek out and explore sex positivity even in the middle of an oppressive environment."
As McDaniel points out, sex positivity helps people, especially younger people who are new to having sex, dismantle the shame and taboo that are far too often associated with sex. When this happens, we're more likely to feel free to explore, experiment, have fun, and, most importantly, understand the importance of consent and communication.
Whether you're looking for gifts for yourself or someone else, here are 11 great ideas for the sex-positive people in your life.