Resilient Desire: Redefining Intimacy, Identity & Connection

Resilient Desire: Redefining Intimacy, Identity & Connection In this soulful and eye-opening episode of Happiness On Tap, host Leann Herron sits down with Singapore-based counsellor, psychotherapist, and certified sexologist Krish Phua to explore how women can navigate major life transitions with resilience—particularly through the lens of relationships, intimacy, and sexuality.Krish, a Senior Counsellor and Intimacy & Sexual Wellness Therapist at Underneath The Moon, shares his insights from over a decade of supporting individuals, couples, and families through deeply personal journeys of transformation. Together, they unpack how shifting identities, emotional wounds, and cultural narratives can influence how women see themselves—and how they connect with others—especially during midlife changes like divorce, menopause, or rediscovering personal desires after years of self-sacrifice.With compassion and cultural sensitivity, Krish helps reframe sexual wellness and intimacy as essential aspects of healing—not indulgences to feel guilty about. He speaks on the power of authentic connection, the unlearning of shame, and the importance of holding space for desire, curiosity, and self-discovery. If you’re reimagining who you are and what you want in love, sex, or partnership, this episode is a must-listen.We discussed:Krish shares the personal and professional journey that led him into the fields of counselling, psychotherapy, and sexual wellness.We explore the mission and services offered at Underneath The Moon and the holistic, inclusive approach Krish brings to his clients.Krish reflects on how major life transitions—such as menopause, divorce, or empty nesting—can impact women’s sense of identity and emotional resilience.We dive into the emotional and relational challenges that often arise for women in midlife and how they can begin to rebuild trust with themselves (loneliness, self-doubt, guilt, grief, tension).Krish offers guidance on how women can gently reconnect with their sexuality after trauma, long-term relationships, or periods of disconnection.We discuss the cultural myths around aging and sexuality that often hinder women from fully embracing their evolving desires.Krish defines what it means to live authentically in our relationships and how that can transform intimacy on every level. Adult play.We unpack the deep layers of shame surrounding sex, gender identity, and desire—and how therapy can help dismantle those beliefs.Krish highlights how cultural and familial narratives shape our experiences of intimacy and how he navigates this in a multicultural therapeutic setting.Finally, Krish offers supportive words to women who feel afraid to explore their intimate lives because of stigma, fear, or internalized shame.Krish reminded us that intimacy isn’t just about sex—it’s about safety, trust, curiosity, and reclaiming our stories.Episode Resources: Krish Phuahttps://www.underneaththemoon.com/2023/12/meet-krish-phua/Website: https://www.underneaththemoon.com/Finding Resilience with Leann:Subscribe for more great content:  @findingresiliencewithleann  Website: https://findingresiliencewithleann.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/findingresiliencewithleann You can access the Happiness On Tap podcast on your favorite podcast platforms: YouTube, IHeart, Spotify, Amazon Music, Podchaser, and Audible (just searchHappiness On Tap)