237. The Bristle Reaction & Rejection in Relationships with Vanessa & Xander Marin

Hey, hey! Welcome back to the Owning Your Sexual Self podcast! I can hardly believe I get to say this, but today’s guests are none other than Vanessa and Xander Marin! Vanessa is a sex therapist with over 20 years of experience, Xander is the self-proclaimed “regular dude” by her side, and together they’ve built this amazing platform of relatable, hilarious, and truly practical advice for couples. Their book Sex Talks is a New York Times bestseller, their Instagram videos live in my saved folder, and their podcast Pillow Talks is basically the sex education we all wish we got. They’re funny, real, and shockingly open about the ups and downs of relationships.In this episode:What the bristle reaction is and how it shows up in relationshipsHow unspoken intentions during touch can create tension or shutdownThe importance of direct versus indirect initiation of sexWhy non sexual touch and affection matter outside the bedroomHow to handle rejection in a way that keeps the door open for connection Simple practices like the 30 second hug to build closenessThe five essential conversations from Vanessa and Xander’s book Sex TalksLaughs, stories, and the kind of energy that makes sex and relationships feel way less serious and way more funThank you so much for listening!  Don't forget to share on your social media and tag me if you loved this episode! ResourcesSex Talks BookSex Talks Card Deck The Pillow Talks PodcastConnect with Vanessa & XanderInstagram - @VanessaAndXanderWebsite - vmtherapy.comSupport the showConnect with Rachel!Instagram: @The_Rachel_MaineWebsite: https://linktr.ee/WellnessSexpertiseYouTube: YouTube.com/@OwningYourSexualSelfFacebook: Rachel MaineEmail: [email protected]