Bridging Desire Gaps: How to Reignite Intimacy After 50

Listen to this episode from Sex Advice for Seniors Podcast on Spotify. On this episode of Sex Advice for Seniors, I had the pleasure of chatting with Susan Morgan Taylor, a somatic sex therapist from beautiful North Carolina. Susan works with couples to help them reconnect with their bodies and each other, using somatic methods to explore desire and intimacy. If you’ve ever wondered how to reignite the spark or expand your idea of pleasure, this episode will inspire you!Susan explained that somatic sex therapy focuses on the body and sensations rather than just talking things through. She shared how couples can learn to notice what feels good, express their desires, and explore different types of touch—beyond the obvious areas. It’s about slowing down, paying attention, and creating space for pleasure to unfold naturally. I loved Susan’s reminder that pleasure and orgasm aren’t things someone gives you; they’re already inside you, waiting to be unlocked.We also tackled the common issue of mismatched libidos in relationships. Susan’s take? Stop blaming each other! Instead, understand how you’re both wired differently and learn to meet in the middle. She shared some brilliant tips, like finding your voice to express what you want and being open to what your partner needs. As Susan said, “What would change if you took 100% responsibility for your own pleasure?” A game-changing question, right?If you’re curious to learn more, check out Susan’s website, pathwaytopleasure.com, where you’ll find her retreats, masterclasses, and even a free ebook. She also hosts a great podcast called Sex Talk Cafe. This conversation was such a fun and eye-opening reminder that it’s never too late to explore new paths to pleasure and connection. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Somatic Sex Therapy02:57 Understanding Somatic Practices04:45 Benefits for Older Couples07:30 Exploring Erogenous Zones09:50 The Pleasure Keys Process12:01 The Power of Light Touch15:45 Types of Touch in Intimacy16:22 Desire Discrepancy in Relationships20:03 Navigating Sexual Expectations21:23 Finding Your Pathway to Pleasure24:31 The Importance of Communication27:06 Empowerment in Relationships29:10 Feedback and Desire31:04 Finding Your VoiceWhat’s this about?Hi, I’m Suzanne, author of the bestseller ‘The Butcher, the Baker, the Candlestick Maker: An Erotic Memoir,’ pleasure seeker and curious about ways to improve our intimate relationships as we age.Each week, I delve into a different aspects of sex, dating and relationships with an expert which I bring to you via the Sex Advice for Seniors podcast. Once a week, I write or invite a guest to write a more personal story, which could be in the form of an erotic experience, a sex toy review or perhaps a new perspective, typically behind a paywall.Alongside this Substack, I advocate for the right to sexual pleasure in later life through speaking engagements, attending conferences and other events, which your subscription helps to pay me to attend.Being a subscriber has multiple benefits for you:* Receive my book, ‘Sex Toys & Supplements for Thriving in Later Life’ * Join my private chat where you can ask questions of a personal nature* Helping to contribute to the conversation around sex and sexual health in later lifeI’m grateful for each and every subscriber that pays £6.99 or £49.99 per year so do consider taking a subscription if you have the means to do so.Hey, but don’t take it from me. Here’s what others say about Sex Advice for Seniors:“Not enough older voices talking about sex. Are we just supposed to dry up and fade away?”“I enjoy staying abreast of new ideas and learning new ways to please my wife.”“Straight non judgmental information that relates to my needs.” Get full access to Sex Advice for Seniors at www.sexadviceforseniors.com/subscribe