Genital Quote by Alexander Lowen
““Since the experience is different for each individual, the tension will reflect that experience. In some persons the whole lower half of the body is relatively immobilized and held in a passive state; in others the muscular tensions are localized in the pelvic floor and around the genital apparatus. If the latter sort of tension is severe, it constitutes a functional castration; for, although the genitals operate normally, they are dissociated in feeling from the rest of the body. Any reduction of sexual feeling amounts to a psychological castration. Generally the person is unaware of these muscular tensions, but putting pressure upon the muscles in the attempt to release the tension is often experienced as very painful and frightening.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Bioenergetics, Alexander Lowen, 1975
Muscular tension varies per person, often hidden, and can cause psychological disconnection from sexual feeling.
In simple terms: Hidden muscle tension can block emotional and sexual awareness.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and gently release body tension.
Themes
psychology
bodywork
sexuality
awareness
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
educational
clinical
When to use this quote
- Therapy sessions
- personal self
- stress relief
- intimacy counseling
Key Concepts
Somatic therapy
psychosomatic
functional castration
Questions to Reflect On
- How does unnoticed body tension affect emotional health?
- What gentle methods can ease painful tension release?
A Different Perspective
Tension release may be painful and frightening, requiring careful guidance.
![“The African specialist Nahid Toubia puts it plain [when speaking of female genital mutilation]: In a man it would range from amoutation of most of the penis, to "removal of all the penis, its roots of soft tissue and part of the scrotal skin.” quote by Eve Ensler](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/59c/eve-ensler-1402_genital-mutilation_the-african-specialist-nahid-toubia-puts_384212.jpg)
![“Happiness is the consciousness of growth. [...] If my definition has validity, it suggests that most people come to therapy because they sense their growth has been arrested. Certainly many patients look to therapy to reinstitute the growth process. (33)” quote by Alexander Lowen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8db/alexander-lowen-11650_happiness_happiness-is-the-consciousness-of-growth_454752.jpg)
