When we explore the link between sex and mental health, it becomes clear that many complex factors are at play. A satisfying and healthy sex life can support emotional wellbeing and boost our mental health. But on the flip side, unenjoyable or painful sex can contribute to anxiety, low mood, and emotional distress.

In this episode of The Happier Life Project, as part of our mini-series examining romantic relationships and wellbeing, host Gabby Sanderson is joined by Kate Moyle, a psychosexual and relationship therapist who works with individuals and couples navigating difficulties in their sex lives or questions around sexuality.

Kate is the host of 'The Sexual Wellness Sessions Podcast', a regular media voice on sex and relationships, and the author of 'The Science of Sex'. In this open and eye-opening conversation, she and Gabby delve into why sex still feels so taboo, how suppression impacts wellbeing, and how performance anxiety shows up in the bedroom.

They also discuss why many women find it difficult to express their sexual needs, how self-pleasure and healthy communication can enhance mental and emotional health, and the common emotional fallout of “sex with an ex” or “friends with benefits” when expectations don’t align. Plus, Kate explains why we need to retire the word “clean” when talking about sexual health checks, and how the words we use, and the openness we bring, shape our experience of intimacy.

Let’s get comfortable with the uncomfortable, and start having healthier conversations about sex.

To download the free My Possible Self App: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

🔗 For more on  Kate Moyle visit:

https://www.katemoyle.co.uk/

https://instagram.com/katemoyletherapy/

Buy the book The Science of Sex: https://amzn.eu/d/5LQTVYA

Continuing The Happier Life Project’s ‘relationship month’ series, this week’s episode takes a powerful look at narcissists, narcissistic abuse, and toxic relationships with Dr. Jaime Zuckerman, licensed clinical psychologist, media contributor, and global expert in narcissistic abuse.

Dr. Z is a three-time published author and host of the podcast Next Up: Narcissism. A leading relationship coach for those experiencing narcissistic abuse, she’s also the founder of The Z Group, a private therapy practice specializing in anxiety, depression, and complex relationship dynamics. With years of in-depth research into narcissistic behavior, Dr. Z has empowered people around the world to break free from emotionally abusive relationships.

In conversation with host Gabby, Dr. Z unpacks the traits and tactics commonly used by narcissists, revealing why platforms like social media and dating apps offer ideal conditions for manipulation. She also sheds light on the type of person narcissists often target, and clears up a widespread myth: a toxic relationship doesn’t always mean a narcissist is involved.

Dr. Z shares why it often takes several attempts to leave a narcissistic abuser, whilst outlining the essential steps to take when you’re ready to get out for good. Her insights offer hope, clarity, and a powerful reminder that healing is always possible.

To download the free My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

🔗 For more on Dr. Jaime Zuckerman: 

https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/

Dating and communication, whether with a partner or potential partner, can feel overwhelming and confusing. But with the right tools, it can actually be empowering… and even fun!

Criticism, defensiveness, silence, or feeling misunderstood are all signs of a communication breakdown. When communication goes wrong, it can seriously impact your confidence and self-worth. In a relationship, healthy communication is essential for navigating stress, de-escalating conflict, and staying emotionally connected. To communicate well means expressing yourself in a clear, confident, constructive and respectful way. When you bring this mindset into your dating life, you can avoid unnecessary confusion and heartache.

This week’s guest is Hayley Quinn, one of the UK’s leading dating coaches for both men and women. She’s on a mission to make dating great again! In her conversation with host Gabby, Hayley shares practical advice on how to communicate when someone you’re dating goes quiet, and what to say when you want to address defining the relationship. Hayley also explains why that elusive “spark” isn’t always a reliable sign of compatibility, and how to spot when dating is being used to avoid uncomfortable emotions.

Plus, Hayley calls out the unrealistic fairy tale narratives we’ve inherited (yes, Disney, she means you) and reminds us that real love is built, not magically bestowed.

If you’re dating, thinking about dating, or simply want to become a better communicator in your relationship, this episode is packed with relatable insights and helpful advice.

To download the free My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

🔗 For more on Hayley Quinn:

https://www.instagram.com/hayleyquinnx

While the team at My Possible Self is busy behind the scenes working on a podcast revamp for the new season, we didn’t want to go too quiet on you until September! So The Happier Life Project is bringing you a handpicked selection of standout episodes from our archives, starting with a mini-series all about mental health and romantic relationships.

In the first of five episodes, Gabby welcomes Therapy Jeff, a licensed professional counselor based in Portland. With millions of followers on TikTok and over 1.2 million on Instagram, Jeff is known for his bite-sized, relatable relationship content that regularly goes viral. He’s also the author of the book 'Big Dating Energy' and host of the popular relationship podcast 'Problem Solved'.

Together, Gabby and Jeff dive into the joys and pitfalls of online dating; from finding your dream match to receiving an unsolicited 'dick pic' and everything in between. Jeff shares his expert advice on spotting the early red flags on dating apps, handling the dreaded ghosters, crafting an authentic and enticing profile, and offers his top five tips for attracting the right match. Jeff and Gabby also have some fun exploring the best (and worst) opening lines after a match.

So whether you're deep in the dating trenches or just dipping a toe into the app pool, this episode is packed with laughs, lessons, and everything you need to swipe smarter and navigate the world of online dating with more confidence.

To download the free My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

🔗 For more on Therapy Jeff:

https://www.tiktok.com/@therapyjeff

https://www.instagram.com/therapyjeff/

Congratulations on completing the Month of Mindfulness Challenge! 🌿

The Happier Life Project is taking a little break from broadcasting while we prepare for an exciting new season of the podcast; complete with a fresh look and format.

Stay tuned for updates on our Instagram page: @mypossibleself

Thank you for being part of our community, we can’t wait to share what’s next with you!

To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself

Generosity is about turning away from self-focused actions and offering our time and attention to the needs of others.

It doesn’t have to be monetary or material, generosity can be as simple as giving someone your full, undivided attention in a conversation, offering a smile to a stranger, or helping someone with a task they’re struggling with.

Generosity is the last of the nine main attitudes of mindfulness, so what better way to close your month of mindfulness challenge than learning how we can implement more generosity into our lives. It reminds us how small, intentional acts of giving can make both our inner and outer worlds, better places to live in. 

To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself

Contentment means feeling at peace with who you are, where you are, and what you have.

In today’s practice, try this simple mindfulness exercise to help shift your focus toward what you do have, rather than what you don’t.

Join our Month of Mindfulness Challenge

To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself

The practice of mindfulness includes nine key pillars or attitudes, these are: non judging, gratitude, patience, a beginner's mind, trust, non-striving, acceptance, letting go, and generosity. The attitudes support each other and are deeply interconnected. Throughout the month of mindfulness challenge we have been making our way through these pillars and today we are practicing letting go.

Letting go means releasing the emotional baggage that weighs us down; whether it’s past regrets, unresolved issues, or fears about the future. These burdens can prevent us from living fully and freely.

So there’s no time like the present to practice letting go of any stress, fears and negative emotions. Host Gabby will guide you through a meditation that uses visualization, breathwork, and relaxation techniques to help you let go and release what no longer serves you.

Join our Month of Mindfulness Challenge

To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself

This guided meditation is designed to help you find clarity, focus, and a calm sense of control... even on your busiest days.

Whether you're preparing to start a task, feeling scattered, or simply need a mindful pause, this practice will help you shift into a more focused and present mindset.

Join our Month of Mindfulness Challenge

To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcastTo follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself

Start your day in the best possible way by adding a little mindfulness to your morning routine.

If your morning has already passed, no worries, just make a note to try them out tomorrow instead.

Join our Month of Mindfulness Challenge

To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast

To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself