Recently, my 21/2-year-old asked me if I was okay. I was (though that particular day had been...a day), so I told her as much. Then she asked me if I wanted a hug. It was sweet, but it was also an example of her budding understanding of something far more important: consent.
As adults, we rarely need to ask for permission-we can go where we want, when we want, and with whom we want. Perhaps it's no surprise, then, that consent is often thought of as a one-and-done conversation solely about sex. Maybe you talked about it with past partners, or maybe it's come up on occasion, but you don't think of it as that big a deal (and you wouldn't be alone-research finds people are less likely to ask for consent as time passes in a relationship).
The truth: Consent is a fundamental piece of every connection. That's not just because issues such as sexual coercion and rape do happen in long-term partnerships, but also because, ultimately, consent is about communicating and respecting boundaries. It's about having autonomy throughout your life span to make decisions and empower those around you to do the same. Pretty important, right? Having an honest and engaging conversation about all parts of our lives is key for healthy relationships, says Angela Lee, director of Love Is Respect, a project of the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
But sit-down, awkward, want to-cringe chats? Besides being outdated, they often just scratch the surface of consent's true value. These five expert-backed strategies provide a guide for keeping consent a part of the conversation, which in turn boosts trust, confidence, and pleasure (sometimes without saying a word)....
Redefine Consent
This story is from the July - August 2022 edition of Women's Health US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July - August 2022 edition of Women's Health US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
How Angel Reese Manifested the Life of Her Dreams
The college basketball phenom knows what she wants and how to get therewith epic focus, drive, and determination.
Living in the Age of Özempic
Game-changing weight-management drugs are finally going mainstream. But as with any buzzy health topic, with the fascination come plenty of myths and misunderstandings. WH has the expert info for determining whether one of the next-gen meds is right for you.
LETTUCE LEVEL-UP
Salad is a staple yet deserves more glory than it often gets. We gussied up all kinds of greens for tastier plates that'll soon be in your meal rotation. Goodbye, basic bowls....
Why Women Are Choosing to Be Child-Free
The choice can be liberating, yet stigmas persist. Here, how to cut through the noise with clarity and confidence to make the decision that's right for you.
Nerve Flossing
The technique's purported payoff? Smooth, pain-free mobility.
Gut Feelings
A rising interest in the microbiome means an old-school health hack is making a major comeback. Here, how to supplement with fiber in 2024.
Sip Smart Strategies
Experts read the tea leaves for you and share tips for getting the most health perks and flavor from each and every cup.
SWEAT TEST: OsteoStrong
Meet the wellness center for all ages that claims to strengthen your frame in just minutes a week.
Mile Markers
Running is bigger than ever. And as it continues to become more accessible and inclusive, now's your time to hit the road with this no-BS guide.
Beauty MVPs
The WH team selected and sweat-tested the best products for your active lifestyle.