Sexual liberation is the freedom to express who you are. It should come with a sense of calmness and self-acceptance (Photo: iStock)
Sexual liberation is often surrounded by misunderstanding, with many people associating it only with behaviour that pushes against social norms. But according to psychologist Hellen Staula, the concept is much broader and more grounded in everyday human experience.
She explains it as being rooted in consent, self-awareness, autonomy, mutual respect, open communication and the freedom to make choices that align with one’s personal values.
At its core, she says, sexual liberation is about understanding and accepting one’s sexuality in a way that feels informed and authentic. It is about being comfortable with who you are, and having the freedom to express that identity responsibly, including the choice to abstain.
“Sexual liberation is the freedom to express who you are. It should come with a sense of calmness and self-acceptance,” she says. She demonstrates that understanding sexual preferences starts with self-awareness.
