Monthly Archive for March, 2010

First, a disclaimer: As a blogger who also works with teenagers, I feel shy about the title to this post. I often wonder whether it’s appropriate for me to use such sexually charged language when writing publicly.

However, as you’ll soon see, being a “sensuality slut” is about being willing to use all our senses to engage with the world. Hard as it is to believe, it’s possible to be a sensuality slut, even about doing homework or completing taxes!

Take this morning, for example. Normally I sip my hot morning drink without looking at it. Today, however,  I noticed something entirely new: the steam rising swiftly out of my mug.

Although I know that steam exists, I’ve never really looked at it before. Really LOOKED. Have you? Thanks to the sun shining through the window, the steam practically glowed. So gorgeous!

The phrase “sensuality slut” was delivered to me yesterday by one of the many, beautiful Amy’s in my life. We were talking about the stew that I was planning on cooking.I needed spice advice.

As we talked about my approach to food, it became apparent that I don’t savor the process of cooking in the same way Amy does. In fact, I don’t savor it at all. I cook fast, so I can get to the eating. And I eat fast, so I can get to all the other stuff I need to do. Rarely do I let myself have the experience of cooking and eating.

It was this point in the conversation that Amy called herself a “sensuality slut.”  I immediately glammed on to this phrase! Not only is it beautiful to say (so many esses!), but it’s a short, succinct description of what I want more of in my life. A great mantra to remind me to sink into the experiences I’m already having — and truly HAVE them.

In my academic coaching work I try to help my clients become “sensuality sluts” too, only with regard to their school work. Most kids are pretty good at noticing what they like and trying to do more of it! But there’s a more subtle practice that I encourage — to notice the small joys even in our most menial tasks. Like homework. And taxes.

Studying is not always fun. But studying according to your learning style can make it more enjoyable!

Also, English essays might seem like a pain if you’re just doing them to get a grade. But what about the pleasure that comes from suddenly discovering a new idea in the midst of your writing? In my experience, kids often label their brilliant new ideas as “b.s.”. They don’t know how to tell the difference between a “fake idea” used to get a good grade, and a “real idea” that shows their deepening understanding of an subject.

Kids don’t know (or they’ve forgotten) that our curiosity, and our thoughts, can be savored! I see it is as my job to help students (re)discover the passion in learning and thinking.

An in the meantime, it’s also my job to help MYSELF discover the beauty around me. Here’s to my new life as a sensuality slut!