69. Dry Humping with Tawny Lara

Have you ever felt the need for a drink to ease dating or intimacy nerves? How would you navigate these moments without alcohol, embracing genuine connections?   Join Tawny Lara as she celebrates the release of her book Dry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without Booze. Today, she delves into her journey of writing the book, exploring different perspectives from members of the LGBT+ community, sober writers, and more. She discusses the importance of sober dating, replacing alcohol with activities that build meaningful connections, and understanding one's own sexuality without societal pressures. Tawny touches on how to set boundaries and make changes when one decides to quit drinking, how to cope with breakups, and how to express what makes you feel comfortable.    Tune in as we explore diverse perspectives on dating, sex, and relationships without alcohol so that you can forge deep, genuine bonds with yourself and those around you!     [00:01 - 08:00] Opening Segment • Dry Humping -a guide to dating, relating, and hooking up without the booze A memoir but a journalistic exploration of alcohol-free sex, dating, and relationships • Tawny's sober curiosity journey and long-term relationships   [08:01 - 15:23] Exploring the Benefits of Sober Dating • Sober dating can be awkward, so incorporating physical activities can help release anxiety • It's important to date your partner even if you are in a long-term relationship • Why getting in touch with yourself without alcohol is key • How getting sober helped people embrace their sexuality   [15:24 - 24:00] Uncovering the Real Impact of Alcohol on Sex, Dating, and Relationships • Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, which reduces pleasure and inhibits body functions Alcohol cannot selectively numb emotions or parts of the body • Boosting self-esteem through activities can help build confidence in dating and relationships • Tips for exploring being comfortable with oneself and another partner without alcohol   [24:01 - 31:45] Navigating a Relationship When One Partner Chooses Sobriety • Fill up your calendar with things that bring you joy and help you connect to yourself • How to communicate what you want in bed and develop the confidence to ask for it Take your time, and don't rush into sex or dating until you're ready • The importance of navigating boundaries around drinking and having conversations about it   [31:46 - 42:39] Closing Segment • People often put more weight on alcohol than other changes like diet or exercise • It's vital to have tools to manage anxiety and paranoia around relationships with alcohol • Sexual liberation means more than experimentation - it's about understanding yourself and your needs       Want to connect with Tawny? Follow her on Instagram & TikTok. Visit her website, your guide to sober (curious) dating & relationships!    Subscribe to her weekly sober dating and relationships advice column, Beyond Liquid Courage!   Grab your copy NOW and start your journey to a richer, booze-free dating life!      Key Quotes:     "You can't just remove alcohol from your life and just go on. You have to replace it with something. Replace alcohol with really spending time with yourself and getting to know who you are." - Tawny Lara   "The more time you do spend with yourself getting to know who you are, getting to know your body, you will organically build more confidence." - Tawny Lara   "Fill up your calendar with things that make you happy, that bring you joy. Keep you busy, and help you connect to other people, but ultimately the goal is to feel more connected with yourself." - Tawny Lara       Learn more by connecting with Amanda through Instagram or visit AmandaKuda.com.    It's time to unbottle your potential! Join the Awaken without Alcohol Program, where you'll learn the combined power of elective sobriety, spirituality & manifestation.   If you liked the show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe through your favorite streaming platform!