In celebration of pride month, Sexploratorium is providing souvenirs with purchases all month long through June 30. In addition to our free rainbow flag special, we are celebrating leather community traditions by encouraging you to wave a more personal flag- “show your colors” this month by flagging your intentions using the hanky code.
According to Wikipedia, “flagging” has it roots in western culture where railway workers would signal availability using colored bandanas during square dances. The “hanky code” was widely used during the 1970s in gay leather subculture, but is now widely used by bisexual, queer, pansexual and just about any other category of BDSM practitioner.
Show your colors this month- when you buy from a certain category of product, get a FREE hanky that corresponds. Then, choose which side to raise your "flag"
The practice of “flagging” involves wearing color coded bandanas or fabrics on the left (dominant or active) or right (submissive or passive) side of the body, most frequently hanging from the rear pockets or belt loops of pants.Various colors of bandana are used to indicate specific activities sought by the wearer*:
* The color/interpretations of the code vary from region to region.
Earn a free hanky for each category purchase you make through June 30.
Here’s what your Philly Sexplorers have come up with for you:
Light Blue = Oral Sex – Buy any oral sex how-to book or video ($15-40) – only have one hanky
In honor of National Poetry Month. Inspired by Paris’ artistic movement circa 1911, in keeping with the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts theme of “artistic experimentation and uninhibited creativity”…
Monday, April 25th, 7-9PM In the Aphrodite Gallery at Sexploratorium 620 S. 5th St. in Philadelphia FREE Admission, but tickets are limited!
Complimentary refreshments. Click event title to register in advance or call Sexploratorium 215-923-1398!
Georges Topfer illustration on a Jean de Virgan book representing a flogging in Ancient Rome
Share your works or those of others, or just come to listen & enjoy. Sexologist Susana Mayer will present a brief discussion and read excerpts from pieces produced during the “golden age” of early 20th century French spanking literature.
Prizes for original “classic-style” BDSM poetry reading!
Discount coupon to Philadelphia’s next Erotic Literary Salon for all who attend!
We all know how good it can feel to get a fresh start in Spring, whether it’s by doing some spring cleaning or by trying new things to get that bounce back in your step. We know a great way to do both at the same time, if you’re game…
Let’s play a little game, one that you may have heard of – the French Maid roleplay! But let’s put a little twist on it. This time, the Maid really does have some work to do! Whether you gents (or those who love them) have been craving an opportunity to get in touch with your sissy side, or you ladies want to surprise your partner by giving them a spotless house in the sexiest, raciest way possible, we can help!
Are you a man who craves a chance to get in touch with your inner sissy maid, but you need a little direction? You’re in luck! Sexploratorium carries a variety of publications geared to YOU! Forced Womanhood, Enslaved Sissies and Maids, and Transformation are all a good start. Full of fantastic fetish tales, ideas, tips and tricks, and really hot pictures, these magazines should give you a great jumping off point for your journey into sissification!
No matter who you are, we’ve got some pretty fantastic toys to make your French Maid fantasy come true. We highly recommend the Humiliator Gag System! You can pick up this remarkably comfortable gag system with click-in attachments ranging from feather dusters to toilet bowl brushes and boot brushes! Restrain their wrists and they have no choice but to use this gag to clean away Old Man Winter! Everything you’d ever need to sweep away those winter cobwebs and live out your kinkiest fantasy!
The Humiliator Gag with the Toilet Brush attachment
And there are so many other fun toys you can incorporate into this roleplay, as well – from remote control devices to collars and cockrings with bells, from beautiful silk restraints to shoe locks that make those stilettos only removable with a key! We’ve even got chastity devices to keep your sissy locked down tight and riding crops to keep that girl of yours in line!
In light of the recent natural disasters in Japan, the staff and management at Sexploratorium wanted to do what we could to help the people affected by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami.
Some of the highest quality toys on the market are made in Japan, one of the only countries in the world that regulates the material used in sex toys. Japan is also the origin of one of the most beautiful forms of rope bondage – Shibari.
Whenever you buy a toy from a Japanese designer, we’ll donate 5% of what you spend to a charity aiding in disaster relief. These brands include:
Tenga – makers of fantastic men’s toys like the Flip Hole and Tenga Egg
Vibratex – creators of the original Rabbit vibrator
Hitachi – if you’ve never seen a Magic Wand in action, what better time than now!
We’ll also be donating $1 from every class registration to charity. This applies to our entire class schedule, but we’re also offering TWO classes on rope bondage (including Shibari) in April. You can appreciate the beautiful restriction of Japanese-style rope bondage and help the people of Japan!
The Sexploratorium has the distinct pleasure of hosting BDSM pioneer, author, and champion of sex-positivity Nancy Ava Miller!! She will be signing her book PERVERT and teaching two classes this weekend, beginning on Friday April 1st (TOMORROW!). Read on for more information…
About the Author – Nancy Ava Miller
Hypnotherapist, teacher of Transcendental Meditation, former educator and professional writer, Nancy Ava Miller, MEd, dwells in a remote mountain region of New Mexico where she meanders rugged hills with her dogs, meditates, and pens the occasional poem. Her articles and poetry have appeared in numerous publications, including the acclaimed anthology Some Women (Ed. Laura Antoniou, 1997).
Sometimes labeled the Johnny Appleseed of S&M, Nancy once roamed the land creating S&M/fetish support groups. Today—still in the sex biz, as founder/owner of People Exchanging Power—she describes herself as the proud grandmother of a retired Navy man.
About the Book – PERVERT
In her introduction, Nancy Ava Miller claims to have written a book about how she could not write a book about her life in the sex industry.
In so doing, she nevertheless documents the heart of the B&D/S&M netherworld as it existed for many in the 1980s and 90s—the desperation, the obsession, the passion, the gathering together of kinky souls in back alley clubs and support networks, the intimacy, the love, and her own sexual odyssey.
“Nancy’s description of her self-appointed and self-assumed task of forming a support organization, replete with meetings, personalities and organization successes and failures, makes me wonder, ‘Where has something like this been all my life?’” – Bob Richter (Writer, Publisher)
From “A Brief Moment in Time: One Recollection of Sexual Domination” by Nancy Ava Miller
If a person could “go gay” and if I thus decided to do so, Cassie would be the girl I would choose. She’s tall but not too tall with a boyish build—small breasts, slim hips, long lanky legs and arms; and though she’s in her midthirties, she resembles a teenager. Her face, young and fresh, requires no makeup. In fact, makeup might be a detriment for one with skin so clean and eyes possessing a play of light deep inside the pupils, the type of light that earmarks one as intelligent. And indeed, Cassie is intelligent. She even boasts a PhD to prove it.
But it is not so much the sweet looks and erudition that attracts me. In addition to those attributes, Cassie is a slut who craves pain in various forms (the whip, the hot wax upon her nipples) and who’ll readily widen her thighs to accept a dildo or some fluttering fingertips or, for that matter, a fist or dick up her cunt or ass. And because of this—her slutlike nature—it was easy, back in 1990 when I myself became a professional dominatrix, to recruit Cassie when I needed a submissive female for an S&M rendezvous. READ MORE…
Meet Nancy THIS WEEKEND!
Friday April 1, 7pm Book Reading & Signing: PERVERT
with Nancy Ava Miller
Join Nancy Ava Miller for an intimate book reading and reminiscence of the BDSM Scene of the 1980s and 1990s. Her new book, PERVERT documents (via paragraphs, poems, and pictures) the heart of the B&D/S&M netherworld as it existed for many in the 1980′s and 90′s—the desperation, the obsession, the passion, the gathering together of kinky souls in back alley clubs and support networks, the intimacy, the love … This workshop is FREE, but is limited to fifteen persons. Please reserve a FREE ticket online by clicking the event title.
Saturday, April 2nd, 4-6pm MARKETING YOU! The Best Ways to Describe Your Goals, Your Kink, Yourself
with Nancy Ava Miller
Learn to write a comprehensive, attractive, honest self profile, plus a similar condensed “advertisement.” Learn what makes up both a good and not so good profile. Through meditation, learn to transcend to your inner core of quiet tranquility and creative intelligence, then jot out (on cards) two self descriptions—one long, the other abbreviated. The cards will be exchanged, read aloud, and gently reviewed during further group exchange. Note: If you miss the advance sale deadline for online tickets, please call Sexploratorium 215-923-1398 after 12 noon to register via telephone the day of the workshop (same day tickets cost $10 more).
Saturday April 2nd, 7-9PM Power, Control, and Love: Erotic Hypnosis for Masters and Slaves
with Nancy Ava Miller
Using submissive volunteers, Nancy Ava Miller (a certified clinical hypnotherapist and teacher of TM, Transcendental Meditation) will demonstrate how a slave can become more acquiescent, malleable, and obedient for the adored master, and thus how—through Transcendental Meditation—the Master can harness subtle yet powerful control over the beloved slave. Group discussion will focus on the possibilities hypnosis offers for an intimate dominant/submissive relationship. And, by the bye, might the master use meditative techniques to exercise greater control over their own life, thereby strengthening their role as dominant? Workshop includes printed material regarding hypnosis and dominant/submissive love relationships. Note: If you miss the advance sale deadline for online tickets, please call Sexploratorium 215-923-1398 after 12 noon to register via telephone the day of the workshop (same day tickets cost $10 more).
If our article on Suspension in NYC whetted your appetite and now you’ve got to attend the party this Sunday, you might want to brush up on your rope skills. While this book can’t teach you the ins and outs of rope suspension, you can definitely learn beautiful and deceptively simple harnesses, cuffs, bondage-based games, and more from the Two Knotty Boys! While you’re in picking up this easy-to-use book on rope bondage, might as well pick up some rope! We carry a fantastic Beginner’s Kit that includes two 10′ lengths and one 30′ length of high quality organic hemp rope and even set of EMT safety shears!
One of the first things talked about in ‘Back On The Ropes’ by Two Knotty Boys, a how-to rope bondage book, is that it is a sequel to ‘Showing You The Ropes’. They explain that although it is a sequel they repeated the basic information so that they would not be requiring the customers to purchase both books in order to do amazing things with rope. Which I thought was pretty darn spiffy of them. Obviously the second topic spoken of in this book was the issue of safety, which is very important to keep in mind when doing any sort of play so kudos to them!
The Two Knotty Boys are JD and Dan. Between the two of them, they have 30 years of experience in rope bondage. They met while at a bondage-modeling competition and noticed they had similar styles and philosophies about rope bondage although their backgrounds are quite different. JD’s interest in rope bondage stemmed from work as an industrial rigger and Dan’s came from his hobby as a climbing instructor. Ever since they came together as The Two Knotty Boys they have been performing live shows, rigging photo shoots and teaching bondage to workshops world wide.
I am a complete novice to rope bondage. I had a few difficulties when I started but that is because I didn’t think to look at the fully discriminated GLOSSARY in the back. Silly me. Once I did discover the glossary explaining things like a “bight” and “fistance” following the written instruction and photos were much easier! This book is very straight to the point, here’s how you tie knots, and doesn’t include any of the history behind rope bondage. So if you’re just looking for the know how to book this is it. They have 7 different sections in this book, 13 different knots, 13 different harnesses and really fun ways to make decorative additions to your daily attire. This book is good for anyone from novice with their ease of description and basic information, to pro with creative ways to use rope for bondage or decoration. I have been playing with rope for about a month now and I am very much looking forward to using every bit of information this book has to offer!
Sexploratorium staffer Brooklyn sat down with Eric M. Garrison recently to talk about sexology, his best-selling book Mastering Multiple Position Sex, and more!
Eric Marlowe Garrison is a certified sexuality counselor, author, trainer, teacher, mentor, and international consultant in a variety of areas relating to public health, sexology, and higher education – including the training of medical students. A twice-awarded high school coach, he frequently works with college athletes on everything from time management to anger management. For almost two decades, Eric has promoted better communication and more healthful relationships…for individuals, couples, hospitals, NCAA teams, college health services departments, schools of public health, universities, our nation’s armed services, and international organizations.
Most people are probably familiar with the terms “therapist” and “counselor” as they relate to sex and relationships, but may not be familiar with what a “sexologist” does. Can you explain that role?
Sexology is the scientific study of sex and it has MANY branches. I work as a consultant sexologist (advising doctors, etc), a clinical sexologist (advising clients, couples, and poly groups), and a forensic sexologist (advising lawyers and police about crimes).
Why did you become a sexologist? What was the process by which you made the decision to acquire the education you did and choose the line of work that you have?
As a kid, I used to listen to Dr. Ruth, and knew I wanted to help people have better sex and relationships. Later, I would become a peer educator at Virginia Commonwealth University. It was there that I met Cydelle Berlin*, PhD, who said I should look into Penn or NYU’s PhD program. Seeing her STAR Theater group perform and talking to her one-on-one, along with my advisers there at VCU, made a huge difference in my life.
*Dr. Cydelle Berlin founded STAR Theatre in 1987 and is the Executive Director/Producer of The NiteStar Program, which is based at St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital Center in Upper Manhattan. NiteStar is a national multi-component theater based Health Promotion and Education program for young people, parents and providers which includes direct service, training, and technical assistance.
What is it about human sexuality that fascinates or interests you the most?
I love how diverse and fluid we are as sexual beings.
In your work as a counselor, have there been any particular issues between partners that you’ve seen come up repeatedly? Do you feel that those issues can be resolved before they become problematic, and how can partners “nip it in the bud”?
Differences in desire is a common concern for many. Before any couple commits to any partnership that has a degree of permanency to it, they need to know that there will be times when one wants it more than the other. If they spoke with a sex counselor early on, and learned how to cope and over come discordant desire, then that little stitch could save 9.
Do you feel that there are many people hesitant to seek the help of a counselor for sex and relationship problems? If so, why do you think that is, and how can people overcome it?
Yes, especially men and people who aren’t so enlightened. Cisgendered* men feel that things can improve on their own, and the unenlightened feel that one shouldn’t talk about such things.
Cisgender – Not transgender; identifying with the same social gender as most people with the same biological sex.
What should people look for in an effective sex counselor for their needs? What should they expect from their counselor and from counseling in general?
I’d look for an AASECT certification. If they are in a field, such as social work or psychology, that can be licensed, I’d look for a license too. They should also have a good feel for the person after the initial intake. I always try to do my intakes in person, but my phone clients can’t make that first trip – or any subsequent one, so I have to base everything on a phone connection…and so do they. People need to understand too that that they are part of the team, and not put everything in the hands of the counselor.
You sometimes work as a forensic sexologist. What exactly does that position entail, and is it something that you do frequently? How did you get into that?
Forensic just means “pertaining to the law” – and I can’t tell you how many people think it means “cutting people open for legal research.” So forensic sexology is discovering sexual aspects of cases and sharing those with the people who hired you. I have offered my opinion in the lawyer’s office. Sometimes it’s “Here are things to look for in the evidence.” “These are the 5 questions I would ask the perp.” I have also sat in the witness chair in front of a judge. I even have assisted the US JAG corps. I have been advising lawyers and police departments for over ten years, it lets me help sexual assault and stalking survivors. I got into it by watching Quincy as a kid and combined that with my love of Dr. Ruth.
Your book, ‘Mastering Multiple Position Sex’, has become an international best seller. How does that particular achievement make you feel about the work that you’ve done?
I love getting emails from different countries where my book is sold in English, Polish, or Dutch. And the little negative criticism is also very helpful as well, even when it is not constructive. I am happy with where I am now, but not complacent. There is SO much more work to do, workshops to hold, people to reach.
And one of the things that made the book sore in sales had nothing to do with me, but rather with a grandmother in Pataskala, OH who challenged the book. It got me on the ALA list of Banned and Challenged Books – along with Hemmingway, Anne Frank, Maya Angelou, etc. So in turn, my book title and name were on posters, on library listservs, on the news, on Facebook and college websites. For my parents and friends – all progressive – and for a small portion of my family, it was a proud moment indeed.
Eric’s book, Mastering Multiple Position Sex, is an international, multi-language best-seller that was once the #1 Sex Instruction Book on Amazon.com and still ranks in the top 99.99% of their American sales. You can watch the book’s trailer here:
How did the book come about, and was there a process or method by which you created it?
I had done a couple of radio show on Sirius Maxim channel with Dr. Yvonne Fulbright* – a wonderful teacher, a prolific sex and relationship author, and a friend since I don’t know when, and the publisher called her to ask if she knew an expert – they might have asked for a male – who could write, entertain, and educate. I had been working on a similar book in my head and on paper, but here was a chance not to have to use an agent, as they were asking for my assistance. I gave them a chapter to review, and it was a done deal. I was a sex counselor in NYC, and by extension via phone and Skype from Philly to Boston, so I asked my clients to try these positions out. I tweaked and honed them, and thanks to my clients – mostly those in Manhattan and Boston, the book was tested. A couple great chapters were cut – I loved the one I wrote on sex positions for in your car, and the acrobatic sex chapter was written to replace it.
The couples photographed for the book are all apparently cis gendered men and cis gendered women, portraying ostensibly heterosexual couples. Do you think that there is still a lot of information for LGBTQ folks in the book?
The couples are indeed cisgendered/cissexual, and the publisher had looked at demographics to determine the audience. Because Quiver is known for their beautiful photography, it was a key point for them to have the couples they had. And one couple was a real love-bonded couple for five to six years before they walked on the set.
There is lots of information in there that is NOT cisgender/cissexual specific, because I wanted it to mimic all the fun and education people have when they see me. For instance, there is advice on finding a high quality sex educator, counselor, or therapist near you. There is advice (though brief) on the importance of nutrition and sleep and the importance of adding some variety to the bedroom. But it is for M/F identified couples. I have received praise from bi women and men, and even a great email from one lesbian who late in life fell in love with a man. The response from my trans fans was strong too.
Look, there is often times some great food or preparation info in a “how to BBQ” cook book, but no vegan is going to pick it up for those tidbit, no matter HOW mazing they are.
If I were ever asked to write a non-cis book, I would do so in a heartbeat, and with the same dedication, humor, and intellect that went into the first one. I may wish to reach everyone, but a publisher is going to hire everyone who buys books.
But – periscopes up! – my next book and upcoming novel are not cis-specific, so I was able to unleash the non-cis advocate inside of me, and whoever publishes me will have to know that is my stance.
In addition to all of your other work in human sexuality, you spend time raising awareness of sexual assaults and intimate partner violence. As a man, have you ever encountered criticism for your dedication to what are often considered “women’s issues”, even though these issues affect all kinds of sexualities?
Awesome question. I consider myself a product of the post-modern movement, and often find myself advocating for sexes and groups to which I am not a member, but serve as a member of the human race (watch: some pro-ET group will say that my human race comment was anti-extra-terrestrial). In a gym you need a spotter, on a tight rope you need a net, and in our movements we need allies.
The saddest thing about the “we can do it ourselves, thank you very much” mentality is it can alienate some great helpers. Oddly, I was in NYC in the 90s, and a group of cis-males wanted to march in Take Back the Night. We were told that we could report to a meeting room in the library and talk there. None of these men – some of whom knew or related to SA/IPV survivors – wanted to talk; they wanted to march. So when most of the men skipped the “talk it out” and went home the response was exactly what the organizers wanted to hear: “See, men aren’t interested in helping at all.” Sadly, a friend of mine marched in the event with her physically abusive cisgender female ex-partner ten feet behind her the entire way.
What is your stance on various sexual activities being classified as “paraphilias” by the mental health community, even when practiced by consenting parties? Particular examples being fairly common practices like BDSM, certain fantasies about another’s or one’s own gender or presentation, piercings and tattoos, talking dirty, and the like.
People love to label things, don’t we? Even people who don’t love it will still classify themselves: “I’m anti-labeling!” On page 13 of MMPS (I have no copy near me, but I quote this all the time), I write that the only abnormal sex is that where consent is absent and/or coercion is present. This can be very tricky for people with forced chem fantasies, as those under the influence of mind-altering substances can’t consent, but I work with couples into forced chem and we talk about setting boundaries.
Again, if we share our boundaries, then people can work within those without judgment. Also, so long as people are informed and not persuaded, great and pleasurable things can happen.
Your website mentions “sex surrogacy” as a controversial method of sex counseling, and specifically that it is outside your code of ethics to engage in such a method. What is “sex surrogacy”?
Sex surrogacy is explained in my book too, as I get many requests for referrals – and I have no surrogates in my Rolodex, so readers, please don’t write or call me. Sex surrogates are people who help others learn to have sex and do so, eventually, by engaging in sexual intercourse with their clients. These people are not commercial sex workers – another group, by the way, whose rights I wish were protected and whose services were legal, taxed, medically sound, and protected by law enforcement. Where a CSW is likely to have one encounter with a client and have sex with that person, a sex surrogate might never have sex with a client or not until 15, 20 or 30 sessions. The surrogates whom I have met are all highly educated, physically healthy, and serious in their desire to help others.
Many men who identify as heterosexual are very hesitant to engage in prostate massage or other forms of “ass play”, either alone or with a partner, believing that the practice is “only for gay men”. Why do you think this is? And what do you think they’re missing out on, if anything?
Hell, let’s move that hand up a few feet and say many hetero–identified men are afraid of a fully clothed male-male hug! I feel bad for anybody who won’t explore – even once! – their entire body as a sexual organ. My first chapter of MMPS is all about personal sexploration, so you know what you like and don’t, before you acquire (or return) to a sexual partner or partners. If somebody has a responsive anus or prostate, he is missing out on a lot. For somebody who was sexually assaulted or is incapable of taking in all those sensations, that man is not missing much.
And of course there is the whole anal taboo – it’s dirty, etc. Those concerns can easily be, shall I say, rectified.
Check out our selection of prostate massagers and other anal toys in our webstore! Even more in stock at The Sexploratorium’s South Philly location!
What would you say to someone who is struggling with their gender identity or sexual orientation?
As many times as I could listen to Rebecaa Drysdale sing “It Gets Better” or watch the YouTube videos of the same genre, I am going to go out on a limb and say, “yes, and not always.” People have to have agency to make changes. Tell a person with high cholesterol that “it gets better” but don’t show them the strength within themselves to exercise, eat with mindfulness, and take their niacin, and that cholesterol will do anything but get better.
So to people who are struggling, I’ll say this which is what I tell college students and everyone else: “It is a sign of strength to seek support sensibly.” If you look inside you and don’t have what it takes to make the changes yourself – and most of us don’t, then reach out to somebody face-to-face, by phone, text, whatever, and say, “This is very hard for me and I’d appreciate your help.” Once you are are connected to yourself and to others, OMG, it gets better.
What do you think is a good first step for a couple (or single person) looking to explore consensual and ethical non-monogamy?
Talk about the pros and cons from ALL sides. Not just the health side or not just the emotion side or not just the religious side, but all sides. As I say in my next book: “Sex is a diamond, it is harder than we think AND we have to respect and admire all its facets, even the ones that are not within our view.”
What advice would you give parents out there who are about to have one of the most difficult discussions of their child’s upbringing, “the birds and the bees” talk? And furthermore, how do you feel about sex education in schools, whether abstinence-based or not?
Start immediately – there is always some aspect of sex that you can teach at any age – and that includes talking to people in their 90s too. Sex education has no endpoint!
Be available – questions arise at all times of the day, so be available and approachable.
Withhold judgment – if you can’t do this yet, speak to a sex counselor for help on talking to your kids.
Don’t withhold information or force an agenda – and use appropriate vocabulary when you do all this. No child ever benefited from the “egg in mommy’s tummy” lecture. Hell, that phenomenon happens when most people have the $1.99 breakfast special at Denny’s. Imagine a child asking its mother about the Eggs Benedict she’s eating – two eggs AND Hollandaise sauce. A triple pregnancy threat!
Finally, be comfortable in your uncomfortableness - it’s ok for you to laugh, and feel nervous too.
American sex education is getting better thanks to people like Bill Taverner, Peggy Brick, Joan Garrity, Betsy Crane, Melanie Davis, and the people at SIECUS, Answer, Planned Parenthood, and Advocates for Youth. My fear with the new regime that took over in 2010 is that many of them appear to have been educated not in evidence based sexuality education, but rather fear based sex ed. When I consult with private schools on sex education, my advice is always: “Unless you are teaching a literary course on how to write a horror novel, nobody should ever teach fear.”
What is the easiest way you know to make safer sex even sexier?
Awesome question! Know your own health and that of your partner(s). Often, that’s impossible, as we want to have sex before we have all that information. Once you know your own health status and that of your partner to a degree of certainty with which you feel comfortable, then ask yourself, “What are we protecting ourselves from?” Some safer sex methods are great for HIV, and terrible for HPV. Others prevent pregnancy, and allow most STIs to be transmitted. Some natural methods to prevent pregnancy require lots of education and self-monitoring, and some people feel that their sex or gender or sexual activities are so protected, it’s as if to say a moisture barrier were 100% unnecessary.
Also, it is very possible that you have a life long STI and your partner doesn’t (or vice versa), and you find that you love somebody more than you fear the disease. You have to weigh all the pros and cons, the pleasure and the discomfort, the chance of a break up, and it still might turn out that the method you chose might make others cringe, BUT you both came to that conclusion with your head, with your heart, and with some hedonism thrown in for good measure.
By the way, for first timers, it’s amazing how much safety – and sensuality one pair of underwear can afford (and by that I mean wearing them, not as a gag or blindfold!)
Who is YOUR favorite sex superstar – educator, academic, author, researcher, porn star, advocate, counselor, or general all-round sex champion?
My Double C hands down – clients and colleagues. My clients are always forcing me to think in new ways and my colleagues – the good ones, such as those mentioned above in your sex ed question, encourage me to grow and advance in ways I never thought possible.
But if I had to give one name, just one person who I would drop everything for to watch or listen to, then it would have to be…
Oh, sorry, Brooklyn! I see we are out of time. These were amazing questions – so thank you, and I look forward to seeing the Passional fans in February and March in your store!
Thanks, Eric, for a fun interview! Like what you read here? Check out Eric’s Book, come to a book signing, or take one of Eric’s classes:
Meet author and sexologist Eric M. Garrison and get a copy of his new book signed. Eric is available for private consultations by appointment this afternoon. Call 215-849-7444 for information.
You have major plans on Monday night, don’t you? Candlelit dinner, perhaps? Flowers and chocolate, or maybe diamonds and gold? Maybe your plans are a little less traditional, but still romantic? No matter what it is you might have planned with your sweetie, you’re probably planning to keep your evening going pretty late (wink, wink). Physically connecting to your partner is a big part of romance for a lot of couples, and we’re here to help with that part of your Valentine’s Day plans! We always say that toys are an enhancement for sex with your partner, and as a result, we’ve got a great selection of toys that are wonderful for couples!
The We-Vibe 2
A million people already use the patented, C-shaped We-Vibe to inject more fun and intimacy into their loving relationships. Supple and silky, the G-spot end of the We-Vibe glides inside easily while the other end nestles against her clitoris. In between, the ultra thin flex arm gently hugs her contours to hold the We-Vibe comfortably in place — while leaving plenty of room for him to slide inside and share the pleasure.
Two whisper-quiet vibrating pads simultaneously stimulate her clitoris and G-spot, creating pleasure pulses that resonate her entire pelvis — we call this amazing phenomenon Harmonic Throbbing™. While making love, he enjoys the surrounding vibrations for a truly shared and intimate experience. With 9 vibration modes, simultaneous orgasms have never been so easy!
We-Vibe is body-safe and eco-friendly. It is encased in lead-free, phthalate-free, 100% medical-grade platinum silicone and crafted to strict health and consumer safety standards. The We-Vibe uses a long-lasting rechargeable battery and has fully recyclable packaging.
We LOVE the We-Vibe 2! It’s one of our staff’s favorite toys in inventory, and our customers love it too! Need more information? Check out our staffer Brooklyn’s review! Brooklyn loves the We-Vibe, especially coming up with creative new ways to use it!
LELO Tor and Bo
BO is a gentleman’s ring whose place in history is assured – the first stylish and rechargeable male pleasure object of his kind, BO has already gone where others can only follow. His unique design promises comfort to men of all sizes, while stimulation is delivered through an energetic and vigorous vibe. Still more flexibility is offered depending on how he is worn, with the wearer becoming noticeably more endowed, while prolonging the sensations for both partners. BO is the perfect gift for those who wish to make a great experience even better, and as you would expect, this potential for pleasure only gets stronger with time.
TOR is the most sophisticated and assuring of gentleman’s rings, taking his name from Norse Mythology in a tribute to LELO’s Swedish roots. Through his intelligent and stylish design, TOR boasts something of a ‘Sixth Sense’ where a tiny microprocessor adapts the vibe according to his user’s desire. Perfect for enjoying shared pleasures with your chosen partner, TOR can switch between six stimulation modes for the most empowering range of sensations. His comfortable and multi-purpose design also promises his wearer a more substantial presence and greater array of satisfying experiences. And if that is not enough, TOR also has the equivalent lifespan of around 10,000 disposable rings, marking him out as an investment of the most pleasurable kind.
TOR and BO are both made of body-safe materials, rechargeable, and come with a 10-YEAR GUARANTEE!
Sexploratorium also has plenty of other products for couples:
Plenty of other toys from strap-ons to rings to vibes and MORE!
How-to books to teach you and your partner new love skills
Plenty of erotic videos and books – includes straight, queer, and fetish titles
Kinky toys - restraints, paddles, rope, and more! – to spice up your Valentine’s Day (as well as knowledgeable staff and how-to books to help get you started)
And if you really want to start Valentine’s Day weekend off right, we’ve got a great idea for you! Sunday night, start out with a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants in the South Street neighborhood (and there are plenty to choose from!) and then bring your sweetie by our store! We’re offering a fantastic class from 7-9pm that both you and your partner will enjoy!
Although RSVPs do not guarantee you a spot in the class (and the only way to do so is to buy your seat via our site, store, or by phone), feel free to let your friends know that you’re coming and to invite them along for the ride!
In celebration of Earth Day, Philadelphia’s Sexploratorium is going Eco-sexy from April 20th to the 30th (and beyond).
Hot off the presses, the new book Eco-Sex is out on the shelves this week. Buy your copy at Sexploratorium and you will save 10% off any quantity of the following items (in addition to affiliate discounts or brand promotions):
rechargeable vibrators by LELO, We-vibe and Fun Factory
Organic lubricants and massage oils by Sliquid, Hathor, Intimate Organics, Earthly Body and more.
Look around the entire store for special tags and discounts on locally made and earth-friendly toys including:
Fillable (hot or cold) ceramic dildos are 20% off
Sustainably grown Nob Essence wood sex toys are 10% off
“Strapless” and other locally made glass toys by Tami King are buy one, take a second home for 20% off.
Recyclable, renewable glass toys by Phallixare 25% off. We just received a special shipment of 100 pieces in order to offer this amazing discount so there is more selection than ever!
Additionally at both PASSIONAL stores:
Bring in a reusable bag or luggage for your purchases receive an extra 5% off your entire order (in addition to affiliate discounts and promotional offers). Or pack up your luggage in a reusable toy case, and receive an additional 5% off your entire order.
Ask PASSIONAL staff to recycle bottles and cans you may collect while shopping in our neighborhood.
Consider getting involved with official Earth Day Initiatives
In honor of Earth Day, this special $10 class earns you 10% off any purchase of rechargeable, glass, ceramic, meatal or wood sex toys and organic lubricants/ massage oil, which more than pays for itselfLearn to save the planet and have better sex! In this workshop we will discuss ways to make your sex life a little greener for a more eco-friendly and sustainable sex life.
Juicy Justine is a highly trained Sexuality Educator with her Masters in Human Sexuality Education. Justine currently presents workshops on a variety of topics related to sex and sexuality in a fun and interactive format for individuals of all ages.
Artist’s Reception for Ren Clark
Check out Aphrodite Gallery, where sexy abstracts by local artist Renae Clark are on the walls with a special reception on Friday, April 23 from 7-9PM. Meet our Philadelphia-based artist and enjoy local wine and treats.
Tami King Trunk Show:
If you can dream it, draw it and let Tami bring it to life! She can even repair and alter existing glass toys, so if you have one you want modified bring it in (clean) and talk to her about the possibilities during her April 30 trunk show.
Homegrown glass goddess Tami King is offering buy one, take a second item in her collection for 20% off from April 20-30. Looking to customize your glass toy? Did a vision the perfect non-porous partner come to you in your sleep? Draw a sketch and meet the artist at Sexploratorium during a special trunk show reception April 30 where you will save 10% off your custom order, plus 20% off an in-stock piece from her collection if purchased at the same time (in addition to affiliate discounts). Originally from the Pittsburgh area, Tami King obtained an associates degree in graphic design from Butler County Community College. In 1997, Tami transferred to the Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia and received her BFA 2000. She attended Salem County Community College in the Scientific Glass Technology program and the Glass Arts program. She as well, works as a volunteer in the glass studio at Wheaton Arts in NJ doing hot glass demonstrations. Tami was selected to participate in the female flame off in Philadelphia, has demonstrated flame working at Salem CCC, Banana Factory and Wheaton Arts. She teaches flame working and glass with copper classes at the Banana Factory. Her current interests include sculptural approaches that primarily utilize glass and copper. She has also been working with copper in many of her glass crafts, such as; beads, pendants, vases, goblets and paperweights. Recently was chosen for the Women in Glass of 2009 edition of Flow Magazine for flame working.
Make sure to stop by Sexploratorium to shop from our entire collections of featured ec0-aware merchandise with these special offers available to you every day from noon-10PM April 20-30. Free meter parking below Bainbridge on Sundays and throughout the district on Wednesdays after 5PM. Also free lock-able bicycle parking in front of both stores!
************
If you cannot make it in to experience these special eco-sexy offerings in person, you can order the items linked above and receive free shipping plus any applicable in-store discounts by typing the code “eco-sexy” in the “comments” section of your order form.
And don’t forget about all the other fun stuff that can be purchased on the Sexploratorium site.
Time to saddle up, fellas! NEW Dude Lube and Ride Rub by Sliquid are now in stock...pick one up and get ready to ride off into the sunset!! 4 hours ago
Tons of new vibes from FUN FACTORY are on the shelves! Try a UFO shaped rechargeable vibe for an out of this world experience! 10 hours ago
