Nikita Fernandes: Platonic Intimacy, Body Image & Herpes Stigma

In this conversation, Michelle Renee and Nikita Fernandes discuss their connection in the therapy world and their passion for sexual healing. They explore the importance of platonic intimacy, body image work, and the power of touch. They also share their go-to outfits for a booty call and the things they love to receive but have a hard time asking for. The conversation ends with a discussion about the hottest things someone has said in bed. In this conversation, Michelle and Nikita discuss various topics related to sexuality and sexual health. They talk about the importance of communication and making noise during sexual encounters, as well as the significance of self-pleasure and self-care. They also touch on the stigma surrounding herpes and the need for education and support for individuals with STIs. Nikita shares her upcoming projects, including becoming a licensed therapist and speaking at a conference on sexual health and mental health. Michelle discusses Soft Cock Week and her upcoming TV appearance. They emphasize the importance of body positivity and acceptance in sexual relationships.Takeaways Platonic intimacy is essential for rekindling sexual intimacy in relationships. Body image work and exploring non-genital zones can be incredibly erotic. It's important to communicate and ask for what you want in bed. Vocalization and affirmative consent can enhance sexual experiences. Being naked in public can help overcome body image issues. Touching and exploring different pleasure points can build anticipation and desire. Communication and making noise during sexual encounters can enhance pleasure and indicate enjoyment. Self-pleasure and self-care are important aspects of sexual well-being. There is a need for education and support for individuals with STIs, particularly in reducing the stigma surrounding herpes. The conference on sexual health and mental health provides a platform for discussing the impact of STIs on mental well-being and promoting education and awareness. Body positivity and acceptance are crucial in fostering healthy sexual relationships.Nikita Fernandes (she/her) a Mental Health Therapist-LP and Sex Therapist based in New York City. She can be found at ⁠https://healingwithnikita.com⁠ or email at [email protected] Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is⁠ ⁠https://meetmichellerenee.com⁠⁠ and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, ⁠click here⁠.To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers, ⁠click here⁠.Links from today's episode:⁠https://AASECT.org⁠⁠https://www.briangibney.org/⁠⁠https://www.surrogatepartnercollective.org/⁠⁠https://embracespt.org⁠⁠https://humanconnectioncoach.com/resources⁠Asexuality episode: ⁠https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/episode/7⁠Spoon Theory: ⁠https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spoon_theory⁠We’re Not Really Strangers XXX Adult Edition: ⁠https://amzn.to/44e7XXY⁠Naked with Strangers Article: ⁠https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-myths-sex/202102/spending-time-naked-strangers-can-improve-body-image⁠Something Positive for Positive People: ⁠https://www.spfpp.org/⁠Something Positive for Positive People Safe Sex Expo: ⁠https://www.spfpp.org/offerings/p/safe-sex-expo⁠STI Risk Chart: ⁠https://www.sfcityclinic.org/patient-education-resources/std-risk-chart⁠⁠https://softcockweek.com⁠Sex Sells on FuseTV, Season 3 - Episode 5: ⁠https://amzn.to/3JA8Twt⁠