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  • Interpreting the Old Testament in Africa, A Review

    NATURE AND PURPOSE
    This volume is a collection of twenty-three papers read at the International Symposium on Africa and the Old Testament, in Karen, in October 1999. It is part of the Biblical Studies in African scholarship series which features titles by contemporary African Christian theologians.
    The purpose of the series generally is to make available a sample of such books like the one under review at affordable prices to students, faculty, clergy and laity within Africa. Furthermore, it is hoped that African Christian theological scholarship will eventually enter the mainstream of the theology curriculum in tertiary institutions in Africa and beyond. The series intends to fill this gap and facilitate systematic research on contemporary Christian theology as articulated by African scholars. The editors of the text admit that there is no plain answer to the question “what does it mean to interpret the Old Testament in Africa today?” However, they are convinced that the text is an attempt to realistically answer the question. The question of localization, they affirm, is important for Old Testament scholarship.

    SUMMARY OF THE CONTENTS OF ONE ESSAY IN EACH OF THE MAJOR DIVISIONS OF THE BOOK
    Part One: Mapping the context of Old Testament Studies in Africa
    The Current State of Old Testament Scholarship in Africa: Where We Are at the Turn of the Century, By Knut Hotler

    This paper asks some basic questions with regards to the state of the Old Testament scholarship in Africa at the turn of the last century, relating the minor stories of Old Testament scholarship in Africa to the major story, the story about who we are, and where we are. It surveys the current state of Old Testament scholarship in Africa from three perspectives (thematic, institutional and interpretive) and discusses a couple of aspects of interaction between these three areas. Preference for approaches relating the Old Testament texts and the African context and the growing interest for more traditional exegetical approaches are noted from the thematic approach. From an institutional perspective, the paper identifies and discusses some of the problems and challenges facing the development of an infrastructure facilitating an Old Testament scholarship. The third perspective discusses how Old Testament scholarship in Africa relates to different aspects of its interpretive context. However, as all three refer to the same phenomenon, Old Testament scholarship in Africa, they are closely related. Although African Old Testament scholarship has been established, its voice must be heard within the church in Africa and its interpretation must reflect its dialogue with the experiences and concerns of Africa. The same is true if it wants to be part of the global guild.

    Part Two: Finding Africa in the Old Testament
    The images of Cush in the Old Testament: Reflections on African hermeneutics, by David Tuesday Adamo

    This paper examines the various functions and meanings of the Old Testament term Cush that have been put forward by Euro centric scholarship. A brief survey of some extra biblical references like African and Assyrian precedes the discussion on the Old Testament references to Cush which is divided into three groups: Cush as a personal name, a geographical reference and a reference to people of Africa descent. It discusses the exegetical function, meaning and translation of the term and the implications of the translation for the churches in Africa. Adamo holds tenaciously to the view that Cush should be translated or rendered Africa which will disprove racist ideas that some scholars have forced into the Bible in their interpretation.

    Part Three: Using Africa to Interpret the Old Testament
    What”s in a Name?: Africa Versus Old Testament Nomenclature, by Jonathan Gichaara

    Gichaara engages in a comparative study between the significance of names or name giving in the Meru African heritage and in the Old Testament. In the Old Testament and African cultures, the name is inextricably bound up with existence. Nothing exists unless it has a name. It is not a mere label of identification, but an expression of the essential nature of the bearer of the name. It stood for the character qualities of either the bearer of the name or the giver as the case may be. The differences are also outlined.

    Part Four: Using the Old Testament to Interpret Africa
    Genesis 1-2 and Some Elements of Diversion from the Original Meaning of the Creation of Man and Woman, by Anne Nasimiyu Wasike

    This article discusses the place of women in the church and society. It laments the woeful use of the Bible since some African scholars have referred to their traditional, cultural and religious heritage to justify the inferior status of women in society. For centuries, male scholars have gone to the Scriptures and selected those texts that support their male-dominated views on women. The writer believes that Christianity has failed to reflect the restoration message of the Gospel. It has alienated and marginalized African women in the Church. It is no wonder that Africa is leading in emerging church movements which are seeking wholeness, healing and recognition of women”s leadership. Women, Wasike argues, have to question the patristic interpretation which does not allow them in leadership roles beyond household management. She holds that there is need for a theology that affirms restoration in Jesus Christ which supports our uniqueness as persons ? male and female-, made in the image and likeness of God. The man-made barriers that restrict human freedom, especially women”s freedom, have to be torn down to enable each child of God to fulfill his or her God-given gifts and talents.

    Part Five: Translating the Old Testament in Africa
    Morphological and Syntactical Correspondence Between Hebrew and Bantu Languages, by Victor Zinkuratire

    This article draws attention to some features of the Hebrew language that have close equivalents in Bantu languages. Several examples of certain morphological and syntactical correspondences between Hebrew and Bantu languages are cited. A final example of comparison is taken from a common feature of the Hebrew language namely the qatal-wayyiqtol (perfect and imperfect) verb sequence used in past tense narrative.

    The writer draws several important implications based on the discovery of these similarities and correspondences. He suspects that Hamitic and Nilotic groups of languages would yield a still closer and more radical resemblance with Hebrew than the Bantu languages. These correspondences and similarities between Hebrew and African languages could encourage African Old Testament scholars to examine the potential of using mainly African Bible translations (instead of European ones) in conjunction with the Hebrew (and Greek) Bible. This could be a promising route towards a genuine African biblical exegesis that will facilitate a more contextualized interpretation of the Bible for Africans.

    EVALUATION
    Generally, these papers give a fairly representative testimony of how the relationship between Africa and the Old Testament is interpreted in universities and theological seminaries in Eastern and Southern Africa at the turn of the last century. They are an invaluable effort to interpret the Old Testament in an African context. They are important signposts in the long journey towards the maturation of African theological scholarship. By mapping the context of Old Testament studies in Africa, aiming at finding Africa in the Old Testament, analyzing various aspects of the Old Testament portrayal of Africa and Africans, discussing Africa to interpret the Old Testament, analyzing various aspects of how the texts of the Old Testament are experienced as relevant to their contemporary African readers and describing various aspects of the effort of translating the Old Testament in Africa today, these papers portray the puzzling affinity between the African religious heritage and the way of the life which the Old Testament presupposes and takes for granted.

    My criticism of the text is that it did not reflect scholars from all the four main regions in Africa. Although my country, Sierra Leone, is not included, one would probably have expected meaningful contributions from or about the country with probably one of the largest growing church in the world (Nigeria). The above notwithstanding, the writer realistically observes that, without Africa and the participation of Africans, neither Judaism nor Christianity would make sense. This means that the Old Testament cannot be realistically interpreted without Africa”s contribution.

    AUTHOR SIGNATURE
    Oliver L.T. Harding, who obtained his GCE O & A Levels from the Sierra Leone Grammar School and the Albert Academy respectively, is currently Senior & Acting Librarian of Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. He is a part time lecturer at the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS), Fourah Bay College and the Extension Programme at the Evangelical College of Theology (T.E.C.T) at Hall Street, Brookfields; Vice President of the Sierra Leone Association of Archivists, Librarians & Information Scientists (SLAALIS); a member of the American Theological Library Association (ATLA) and an associate of the Chartered Institute of Library & Information Professionals (CILIP). His certificates, secular and sacred, include: a certificate and diploma from the Freetown Bible Training Centre; an upper second class B.A. Hons. Degree in Modern History (F.B.C.); a post-graduate diploma from the Institute of Library Studies (INSLIBS, F.B.C) a masters degree from the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS, F.B.C.) and a masters degree in Biblical Studies from West Africa Theological Seminary, affiliate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he won the prize for academic excellence as the Best Graduating Student in 2005. Oliver, a writer, musician and theologian, is married (to Francess) with two children (Olivia & Francis).
    Email: oltharding@yahoo.com
    Mobile: 232-2233-460-330

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Oliver_Harding/112404

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1338629

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  • A Comparison of Birth Control Pills – Helping You Decide

    A Comparison of Birth Control Pills – Helping You Decide

    In making a comparison of birth control pills, it should be known that oral contraceptives have been around the market for over 45 years. It was first tagged as the pill when it was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration or FDA. This form is the most reliable that women turn to when they want to get pregnant.

    Weight Gain
    But another side to oral contraceptives is how they affect a woman’s body to gain weight. It really is dumbfounding because you will hear such stories from many women who have used the pill for the obvious reason of avoiding pregnancy.

    But despite the fact that it causes additional pounds, the celebrity status that birth control pills have been know for have not diminished through time. Women still relay on these for such purpose, whether they gain weight or not.

    This really depends on the body type of a person. Some women do not have problems of this sort. But the ladies who belong to such lucky classification have also not been fighting over the weighing scale as they were growing old. The ones who are prone to gain weight from the pills are those who accumulate fats easily through food and whatever they intake.

    For this reason, when a woman gains weight from the pills, she must also be ready to counteract it by having the proper diet and right amount of exercise. You must treat it like your ordinary weight gain. This is for you to be able to trust the pill and likewise, not to risk pregnancy when you are still not ready for it.

    You must not fear the drug because of the side effect on your weight. Those can be worked out on. Unlike with unexpected pregnancy, you have to live with that for the rest of your life.

    A Brief Comparison of the Pills
    There are actually many types of this pill available for you to choose from. The POP or Progestin-only pills have no estrogen. This is usually called the mini-pill. It primarily works to thicken the cervical mucus so that the sperm won’t be able to enter the uterus. This kind must be taken consistently at a certain time everyday to achieve great results.

    Combination pills, meanwhile, are those that have estrogen and progestin. The many kinds under this type are said to prevent women from having ovarian cancer as well as endometrial cancer.

    The third most popular are the ECPs or emergency contraceptive pills. This must be taken after 120 hours of committing unprotected sex. The drug will prevent you from impregnating as the cause of the act. This shouldn’t be taken regularly though. It is only when needed that one should subject herself to this type of pill.

    The important thing to remember when choosing the type of pill that will suit your body is to consult your doctor about it. They know about what will work best for you in terms of this condition because they have scientific knowledge about the field.

    This is just a brief comparison of birth control pills. There are a lot more available in the market. And for sure, a lot more will be discovered and developed as time passes by.

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  • Court Entertainment

    Court Entertainment

    Imperial and royal courts have provided training grounds and support for professional entertainers, with different cultures using palaces, castles and forts in different ways. In the Maya city states, for example, "spectacles often took place in large plazas in front of palaces; the crowds gathered either there or in designated places from which they could watch at a distance." Court entertainments also crossed cultures. For example, the durbar was introduced to India by the Mughals, and passed onto the British Empire, which then followed Indian tradition: "institutions, titles, customs, ceremonies by which a Maharaja or Nawab were installed … the exchange of official presents … the order of precedence", for example, were "all inherited from … the Emperors of Delhi". In Korea, the "court entertainment dance" was "originally performed in the palace for entertainment at court banquets."

    Court entertainment often moved from being associated with the court to more general use among commoners. This was the case with "masked dance-dramas" in Korea, which "originated in conjunction with village shaman rituals and eventually became largely an entertainment form for commoners". Nautch dancers in the Mughal Empire performed in Indian courts and palaces. Another evolution, similar to that from courtly entertainment to common practice, was the transition from religious ritual to secular entertainment, such as happened during the Goryeo dynasty with the Narye festival. Originally "solely religious or ritualistic, a secular component was added at the conclusion". Former courtly entertainments, such as jousting, often also survived in children's games.

    In some courts, such as those during the Byzantine Empire, the genders were segregated among the upper classes, so that "at least before the period of the Komnenoi" (1081–1185) men were separated from women at ceremonies where there was entertainment such as receptions and banquets.

    Court ceremonies, palace banquets and the spectacles associated with them, have been used not only to entertain but also to demonstrate wealth and power. Such events reinforce the relationship between ruler and ruled; between those with power and those without, serving to "dramatise the differences between ordinary families and that of the ruler". This is the case as much as for traditional courts as it is for contemporary ceremonials, such as the Hong Kong handover ceremony in 1997, at which an array of entertainments (including a banquet, a parade, fireworks, a festival performance and an art spectacle) were put to the service of highlighting a change in political power. Court entertainments were typically performed for royalty and courtiers as well as "for the pleasure of local and visiting dignitaries".Royal courts, such as the Korean one, also supported traditional dances. In Sudan, musical instruments such as the so-called "slit" or "talking" drums, once "part of the court orchestra of a powerful chief", had multiple purposes: they were used to make music; "speak" at ceremonies; mark community events; send long-distance messages; and call men to hunt or war.

    Courtly entertainments also demonstrate the complex relationship between entertainer and spectator: individuals may be either an entertainer or part of the audience, or they may swap roles even during the course of one entertainment. In the court at the Palace of Versailles, "thousands of courtiers, including men and women who inhabited its apartments, acted as both performers and spectators in daily rituals that reinforced the status hierarchy".

    Like court entertainment, royal occasions such as coronations and weddings provided opportunities to entertain both the aristocracy and the people. For example, the splendid 1595 Accession Day celebrations of Queen Elizabeth I offered tournaments and jousting and other events performed "not only before the assembled court, in all their finery, but also before thousands of Londoners eager for a good day's entertainment. Entry for the day's events at the Tiltyard in Whitehall was set at 12d".

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  • Common Issues to Consider if you want to have a Great Sex Life after 60

    Some individuals really have a fear of getting older. They don’t want to be viewed by society as a has been. They aren’t really sure what their future holds so they tend to dwell on it. They may have memories of their own parents or grandparents with difficulties as they got older. It is only natural not to want to follow along that same path.

    If you want to have a great sex life after the age of 60 then you need to really think about it now. What is your current sex life like? Do you enjoy the activity or do you just go through the motions? Are you in a serious and committed relationship that you would definitely like to still be involved in when that time comes?

    Some people in their 30’s and even their 40’s put sex on the back burner. That is understandable with all of the various commitments we often have in our lives. People are on the fast track and over committed. There are family issues, career, and trying to find some time for yourself. It can leave a person drained and with two people on different schedules it is even more difficult.

    Many researchers will tell you that the type of sex life you have in your younger years will influence how it is for you after 60. So if you aren’t happy with what you have now you need to make some changes. Finding ways to be very happy with your own sexuality is very important. The number of people who aren’t sexually happy is very high, yet very few of them are willing to express what needs to change to their partners.

    Part of the problem though is the attitude that earlier generations had about sex. Many women still feel that it is their duty to please their man. Therefore they don’t talk openly about wanting more or less sex. They don’t express their desires of what they want to see happen. Since no one is bringing it up, their partners just assume they are pleasing them.

    If you find that your life is one I mentioned about being too full for sex, then you need to cut back. Make a commitment to make sex something that is important in your relationship. It shouldn’t be the only thing you have going, but certainly a perk. If you and your partner are having to pencil each other in for sexual activities then changes need to be made sooner than later.

    Some individuals over the age of 60 find that their living conditions can become an issue as well. You may be ready to go to some type of assisted living facility rather than to live on your own. Are they going to approve of sexual activities taking place there? It is important to know what those guidelines are. Some places such as nursing homes don’t allow it and there certainly is very little privacy.

    Even if you end up living with your adult children in your older years, are you going to be comfortable with sexual activities? Many adults don’t want their children to know about it even though they aren’t little kids any more. The issue is further compounded when the parent living with them is dating instead of actually married.

    There are many common issues to consider if you want to have a great sex life after 60. The main focus needs to be on what is going to make you and your partner very happy. There is no reason though not to enjoy sex if it is something you find to be important. You may have some barriers to deal with along the way, but with some accurate information and openness you can find solutions to them that will work well for you.

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  • Eating to Conceive

    Almost every woman knows that it is important to eat well while you are pregnant. The benefit it provides you and your baby is invaluable. But, do you also know how important it is to eat well even before you get pregnant?  If you are actively trying to get pregnant you have to make sure your body is prepared to accept the challenge.  The first thing you should do before even beginning to try is to talk to your doctor to see how you measure up health wise. Does he think you need to lose a few pounds before getting pregnant or does he feel you need to gain a few? Your doctor may recommend that you change your eating habits and start exercising.

    As soon as you decide you want a baby, you should begin to get in the habit of eating healthier. Slowly begin to cut out caffeine. If you smoke, now is a good time to quit rather than waiting until you have that positive test.   Smoking can decrease your fertility and increase your risk of a miscarriage if you are still smoking when you are pregnant.

    Another thing you can do is to start taking prenatals or at least a multivitamin supplement that contains at least 400 micrograms of folic acid. You can also begin to add food into your diet that is rich in folic acid such as spinach and other green vegetables, peanuts, and orange juice. You can also start by taking a prenatal vitamin also.  These vitamins contain iron, folic acid, and calcium along with vitamin C, D, B and vitamins B6 and B12 also.

    Reevaluated your diet. Start to eat foods that have plenty of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Lay off the fat and excess sugar. You want to eat foods that have a high nutrient density.  Eat at least five portions a day of fruits and vegetables along with protein and iron rich foods like dried fruit, and green vegetables.  Try to steer clear of raw fish like sushi, and steer clear of undercook shellfish, meat or chicken. You also want to try to avoid fish that has high mercury content like swordfish, shark, or king mackerel.  Cut out any food that has unpasteurized milk in it including cheeses such as brie, camembert, and some Mexican cheese.  Also cut out foods that have raw egg in it including homemade cookie dough.

    Make sure you up your water intake.  Water should always be your first beverage choice before, after and during your pregnancy.  Water helps to flush your system of toxins.  Once you’ve gotten your eight glasses in, you can drink fruit and vegetable juices also.

    Perhaps the most important thing you can do before you get pregnant is to cut out all alcohol.  The American College of Obstetricians and gynecologists have stated that women who drink might have a harder time getting pregnant than women who do not drink.  Another reason why you should give up alcohol is that most birth defects that are caused by alcohol exposure usually occur in the first few weeks of pregnancy, usually before you even know you are pregnant.

    Getting your body prepared for pregnancy is one of the best decisions you could make.  Your body will be more prepared for the challenge of growing a baby and the experience will be a little easier on your body.

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  • Eating to Prevent Heartburn

    Heartburn does not just affect those who are high stressed or love their spicy foods.  Pregnant women suffer from heartburn too.  You will find as your pregnancy progresses that antacids tend to  become your best friend.   Heartburn has nothing to do with your heart.

    It is when the acid from your stomach leaks up into the esophagus.  Heartburn is very common during pregnancy.  In fact one in four women experience heartburn during their pregnancy usually during the third trimester.  The reason is that your baby has grown a tremendous amount and your uterus has moved up and is now putting pressure on your stomach.  This crowds the digestive tract and allows acids to travel back up the esophagus.   There is an old wives tale that if you have bad heartburn, your baby will have a lot of hair.   Of course there is no proof in this but it is a fun thing to believe in.

    There are ways you can help prevent heartburn during pregnancy.  You can start by taking your time while you eat.  Not only will you enjoy your food better but your stomach will not have to work as hard to digest your food.  You also want to try eating early and eat at least two hours before you go to bed that night so your body has plenty of time to digest your food.

    Keep your meals small. Stick with eating six small meals through out the day. Large meals tend to stuff up your stomach which is already extra squashed thanks to your uterus.  A stuffed stomach makes it that more likely that some of the food along with stomach acid will make its way back up the esophagus.

    Also, make sure you keep your fluids and solids separate.  Too much fluid mixed with too much food can distend the stomach which can aggravate heartburn.  You also want to eat sitting up.  Don’t eat while lying down, and if you are having a bed time snack make sure you are propped up by pillows.

    Your weight plays a part in how much heartburn you may experience.  The heavier you are, the more pressure you are placing on your esophageal sphincter.  This is another reason why you should not gain to much more than the recommended amount.

    Find out what foods cause your heartburn.  Once you figure out what foods cause heartburn, you can cut them out of your diet.  Some foods you might want to steer clear of are highly seasoned spicy foods, soda, tomatoes sauce, chocolate, and some citrus.  Greasy foods are also a big contributor to heartburn.   Cutting out greasy, fried food is going to help with your heartburn prevention.

    When all else fails, take something for your heartburn.  Tums and Rolaids are perfectly safe to take during pregnancy.  If you are not comfortable taking any over the counter medicines try some natural ways such as eating a handful of almonds.  Almonds are a stomach settler and might help with your heartburn.  Another natural remedy is a tablespoon of honey mixed with milk is a favorite for preventing heartburn.

    Like with some pregnancy discomforts, heartburn is one that can be avoided as long as you take the steps and eat properly.  Even without suffering from a lot of heartburn, your baby still could be born with a full head of hair.

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  • Why Sex is Different for those over 60

    Sex has a way of making relationships difficult when we are younger. Many young people struggle with the issue of when it is the right time for them to start having sex. They may feel they have found the right person and then down the road wish they had waited for someone else to share that experience with.

    Many people will tell you that having sex at a young age can certainly lead to some difficulties with relationships. One party may want it to be very casual while the other has fallen in love. There are hurt feelings and even unwanted pregnancies that have to be dealt with. Some may say that they don’t want to think about sex and being older, but those over 60 will tell you it is different – and the love it.

    They don’t have to deal with all the same struggles as they once did. Most women over 60 will tell you that they don’t have to worry about looks. They know that the partner they are with wants to be with them for more than just the hot body they have. They have accepted that their body has changed with time and they still enjoy having sex.

    Men over the age of 60 will also tell you that the burden is off them to have the big muscles. They also don’t have to try to perform all night long like they did in their younger years. With all of the stress off the issue of having sex, the couple can focus on making each other feel good. It is a completely different feeling than what they experienced before.

    Both sexes will agree that sex at this age is about much more than just the physical side of things. It is a way to connect with someone they love, respect, and desire on a deeper level. Sex doesn’t have to be the central theme of the relationship so there isn’t any pressure for it to start taking place. They can take their time to get to know each other before they move on to that level.

    For couples who have been together for a very long time, they often find as they move into their 60’s that they have more time to spend with each other. This allows them to rekindle their love for each other that may have been pushed aside for many of the past years in their relationship.

    You will definitely find these types of relationships to be built on great communication. They two people will really enjoy being around each other. They love to talk and to spend time together. Having sex is just an added benefit of them spending that time with each other. They can bring that level of communication that they value into the sexual relationship as well.

    For those over 60, still having sex means that someone finds you to be desirable. This is very important to both men and women. It allows them to feel loved and cared for. It also allows them to have a level of intimacy that goes beyond just sitting close or holding hands with someone. That can help them to feel young and revitalized.

    You will also find that as people get older they value their relationships more. Even though young couples may be in love, they may not fully realize the importance of their choices. Older individuals are able to see the connection of a good relationship both outside of the bedroom and inside of it. That is what keeps their passion for each other alive.

    If you fit into the category of individuals who think it isn’t going to be much fun having sex one you are 60, think again. Re-evaluate your attitude about it once you have read the material online for those who are in that age group and loving their sex life. Things are going to change but having sex in your 60’s and beyond can be a completely new experience. It can be more rewarding in many ways then what you experienced at earlier times in your life.

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  • When Professional Help Is Needed to Help You Have a Better Sex Life

    Are you married?  If you are, are you currently satisfied with the level and amount of intimacy that you receive?  If you are not, you may want to take action right away.  Although a marriage should not be built on sex, it is still an important component.

    Unfortunately, when it comes to intimacy and not receiving enough of it, there are many husbands and wives who automatically think that their marriage is over.  Why?   Because many believe that a poor level of intimacy is the sign of boredom or the lack of love.  Yes, this can be true in some cases, but only a small number of cases.

    What you need to realize about intimacy is that there are a number of reasons why problems occur.  Just because your husband or wife does not want to be intimate with you or if they act like they want to get through the whole experience as quickly as possible, it does not mean that there is something wrong with you.  There may be other issues to blame, other issues that may require professional help.

    Some men and women just have low sex drives.  They may have always been this way or their need may have decreased with age.  In these types of situations, professional help is advised.  Some men and women can try their hardest, but they still aren’t interested in getting intimate with their spouses, no matter how much they do love and cherish them.

    If you suspect that you or your partner has a decreased sex drive, medical attention is advised.  It is important to know that there are many solutions to the problem.  Both men and women can use medication to revive their sexual wants and needs.  Speaking of medication, did you also know that medication can be to blame?  Some prescription medications have side effects that include a decreased sex drive.

    If there is no physical or emotional reason for your lack of intimacy, such as depression or a low sex drive, professional help is still advised.  This is particularly true if you are married.  Marriages should be worth saving.  You and your spouse are encouraged to attend marriage counseling together.  After a close examination, you may find a ton of other reasons why your intimacy isn’t what it should be.  These additional reasons may include being concerned with work or being concerned with money.  A marriage counselor can help you work through those concerns, which may help to improve the level and amount of intimacy that you receive at home.

    Despite the fact that there are times when professional help is needed to improve intimacy in a marriage, there are many individuals and couples who opt not to seek professional help.  One of the most common reasons for doing so is embarrassment.  If you are on the one who is embarrassed, it is important to remember that intimacy problems are actually very common in a marriage, especially a long-term marriage.  Do not be afraid to seek professional help.

    As a recap, if you are unsatisfied with the current level of intimacy that you are receiving in your marriage, professional help may be needed.  There may be an underlying issue that needs to be discussed or treated.  Don’t let your fear of embarrassment hold back you or your relationship.

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  • Some Common Problems for Women Older than 60 that can Make Sex Uncomfortable

    Sex can continue for women at any age, but there are some common problems that can affect those over 60 and make it uncomfortable. If you aren’t feeling good during the activity of course it is going to be something you avoid being a part of. That can really make you feel less attractive and even older than you really are. Sex is a big part of who we are even though it isn’t the most important attribute.

    Too many women just sum up these common problems as the end of a very happy sex life. Others never really enjoyed it anyway so now it is just one more issue to prevent them from considering sex as something wonderful or rewarding. Yet you don’t have to let problems prevent you from enjoying sex after age 60. There are many things you can do to make yourself feel better.

    Stress can be a huge factor that affects enjoying sex. Some women that are older find that they have things taking place in their life that overwhelm them. Dealing with that stress is very important though to help move on from it. Talking to friends or a professional counselor can certainly be helpful.

    A change of partners can be difficult for women as well. Most women are very loyal to their partner and so it can be hard to become intimate with someone else. They may have gotten divorced later in life and just now came back onto the dating scene. Some women have lost their spouse due to death. After being with the same person for decades it is certainly a new experience to have sex with someone different.

    Many women will find that it does take longer to become sexually aroused when they are in their 60’s. Instead of being frustrated by this a woman just needs to find ways to work with it. Having a relaxing bath with a partner, a nice romantic dinner, or just cuddling for a while can help. A woman needs to make sure her partner understands what will arouse her as well.

    The ability to naturally lubricate the vagina can be an issue as well. This is important to address because it can result in sexual stimulation as well as intercourse being painful. There is no reason for a woman to have to deal with this but many suffer in silence. They try to avoid the atmosphere for sex to take place so they don’t have to discuss this with their partner.

    It is often the result of the vaginal walls becoming thinner as a person gets older. The younger a person is when they go through menopause the more common it is that will occur. Women need to discuss such issues with their gynecologist before they just reach for an over the counter product to assist them with lubrication issues.

    Even though women over 60 can end up experiencing some problems, most of them can be overcome. There are very few women who can’t end up with a very satisfying sex life as they get older. You may have to work in order to physically and mentally get to that point though. Let your doctor help you too by being willing to share such issues with them. They are professionals so you shouldn’t be embarrassed turning to them for assistance.

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  • Improving Your Sex Life: How to Be Spontaneous

    Are you looking to improve your sex life?  If you are, you may have already heard that being spontaneous is advised.  Spontaneity often leads it an increase in interest and an increase in satisfaction, in terms of intimacy.  Unfortunately, some men and women find being spontaneous a lot easier said than done.  If you are one of those individuals, please continue reading on for some helpful tips.

    One of the many ways that you can be spontaneous is by not waiting for your partner to initiate sex.  Unfortunately, many women wait for their husbands or boyfriends to get sex started.  Why wait?  You shouldn’t.  In fact, did you know that your partner may be hoping that you start showing more interest in being intimate with them?  What better way to do so than to initiate sex yourself?

    A creative way to be spontaneous, where sex and intimacy is concerned, is by using text messages.  If you and your partner have and use cell phones, send sexy and seductive text messages to them.  In addition to text messages, you can also call your partner or send love notes with them when they walk out the door.

    As previously stated, there are some individuals who find it difficult to be spontaneous.  Parents are often one of those individuals.  Even if you are a parent who has children in the house, there are a still a number of ways that you can be spontaneous, in terms of intimacy with you partner.  Did you just put your children down for bed?  Jump on your partner, literally, as soon as your kids leave the room.  Most parents want to sit down and relax after their kids have gone to bed, but show your partner that you have other things on your mind.

    Having sex somewhere other than the bed or the bedroom is another way to be spontaneous with your partner.  If you are a parent who has kids in the house, just be careful.  Don’t have sex outside of the bedroom when they may be awake at night and don’t be too loud or you may have an uncomfortable situation on yours hands.

    As for where you can have sex outside of the bedroom, use your creativity.  Where do you want to have sex?  What locations would allow you to try new positions that just can’t be done in a bed?  In addition to being intimate in places like on the couch, in a closet, in the bathroom, or on the kitchen table, consider going outside of the home as well, like to a hotel.

    Speaking of getting intimate outside of the home, surprise your partner.  You can do this by booking a night at a hotel in town.  Make sure you choose one that has romantic rooms or an onsite hot tub or swimming pool.  If you are a parent, arrange childcare for your children first, like by calling on a trusted friend or family member.  Don’t tell your partner about your plans until you are ready to leave, as being spontaneous involves surprising them.

    As you can see, there are a number of different ways that you can use spontaneity as a way to improve your relationship, both inside and outside of the bedroom.  What are you waiting for?  Get started today?  Your partner may appreciate your quick thinking.

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