If you haven’t heard of eco-sexuality, you’re certainly not alone! It is basically an umbrella term for those who view nature as ‘lover earth’ not ‘mother earth’ and values it as a source of love and comfort, rather than a resource to exploit.
There’s a huge spectrum of the ways in which people go about exploring their ecosexuality - some may indulge in water play, others may opt for the most eco-friendly, ethical and sustainable sexual wellness products, and other’s choose to literally have sex with the earth, air and sea. Like most things when it comes to sex, how you go about ‘doing it’ is completely up to you and those involved! Whilst it may sound radical verging on wacky, there’s a lot we can learn from this movement that encourages more ethical and sustainable choices in life and sex. Read on for everything you need to know and how eco sexuality may apply to you - perhaps without even knowing it quite yet!
Why are people doing it?
The world benefits anytime people are more connected, conscious of the resources they use. Now more than ever before, people are aware of the quality and ingredients in their sexual wellness products. For a long time, ethical and body safe products were unaffordable and priced at premium prices point. I’ve noticed there’s been a huge shift, with plenty of eco-friendly options available that won’t break the bank. People are opting for non-toxic, non-porous, vegan and body-safe materials and ingredients. They are choosing safer options for their bodies as well as limiting harm on the environment.
I’ve also noticed people engaging in these practices because they have felt disconnected from their body and the world around them. The foundations of ecosexualty have allowed them to get back into their body and connect with presence and awareness to the land in which they live.
When investing in products - is there anything I should be looking for?
I’m asked this question all the time - and it is VITAL you know exactly what is in your sexual wellness products. There are so many lubes, toys, gels and condoms containing toxic and dangerous ingredients that may dry out your genitals, cause irritation or harm and ultimately they don't feel that great either.
When it comes to condoms, you should be looking for 100% natural rubber latex vegan-friendly condoms with no nasty synthetic ingredients. When shopping for lube it’s essential you know what ingredients they use - you must always stay away from petrochemicals and parabens in the ingredient list as these can cause harm to your body and disrupt the vagina’s flora and pH balance.
How do people ‘do it’ with the earth?
People often assume sex is about penetration, but this is just one way to have sex! There are so many activities that can be considered sexual; touch, movement, dry humping, stimulating erogenous zones, kissing, erotic breathing… really the list goes on. The practice of making love to the earth is finding ways to sensually enjoy anything: allowing the sweet smell of a flower to fill your nostrils, fingering a dewy tree, opening your legs under a stream of water, eating a berry to ignite sensation in your mouth. It’s not so much about being penetrated by a branch - it’s really about mindfulness and embodiment.
Now that we’re on the topic of sticking a small tree inside you, there are a few things I should note. You must be careful when putting anything near your genitals, anus and other sensitive areas. Be cautious of any harmful bacteria and sharp objects. If you plan to put something inside you it must be body safe, have a flared base and cause no unwanted pain or discomfort.
Is this the future of human sexuality?
The future of sex is changing and our access to high quality, body safe and eco friendly products is easier than ever before. So you can ditch those memories you have of condoms and lubes that felt gross or tacky. I have seen from the frontline how these new products are transforming human sexuality because they feel exceptional, they’re good for you and keep you safe - the ideal combo for any sexual experience.
Exploring eco sexuality is one way of motivating one another to do our bit for the planet, explore sexual liberation and get a kick out of it too. And if that’s the future of sex, it looks pretty bright to me.
Guest Editor
Georgia Grace
Certified Australian Sex Coach, writer & speaker
