The journey to healing from sexual trauma varies greatly among individuals, and each survivor should have the opportunity to recover at their own pace and in their own manner. Reconnecting with one’s sexuality can often be one of the most challenging aspects of this process.
Enter Julia Van Der Meer, an artist and designer who has personally navigated the complexities of sexual trauma. Drawing from her own experiences, she has developed a remarkable set of tools aimed at assisting women in gently re-engaging with their sexuality. Recently, Van Der Meer unveiled her collection of “sensory tools” during an event at Dutch Design Week.
“My project stems from my personal encounters with sexual dysfunction following traumatic experiences,” Van Der Meer shared in an interview. “Throughout my recovery, I became increasingly frustrated with the clinical approaches focused primarily on penetration. I realized that a more holistic method could significantly benefit those in recovery.”
Collaborating with medical professionals and women in the healing process, Van Der Meer created five distinct objects designed to help women reclaim their sexuality post-trauma. According to a feature in Dezeen, a prominent Dutch design publication, these tools facilitate exploration and ease discomfort, promoting body positivity and security.
The Tools
The first tool is an ergonomically designed mirror equipped with lighting, allowing women to view their vulvas and vaginas. “Studies indicate that self-examination can greatly enhance body positivity,” Van Der Meer explained. “However, for those with trauma, confronting one’s own body can be daunting.”
Next is a horse-hair brush that enables gentle, light touches, which can be used solo or with a partner. This approach encourages open dialogue about intimacy, making it easier for women to discuss their past experiences.
Additionally, two tools incorporate biofeedback elements, providing users with real-time information about their stress levels. One tool, placed on the abdomen, lights up if the user’s breathing becomes tense, serving as a reminder to relax. The other detects tension in the pelvic floor and vibrates to signal stress.
“Trauma instills certain reflexive responses in the body that originate from the subconscious,” Van Der Meer noted. “To break this cycle, it’s essential to understand what triggers these reactions to facilitate emotional recovery.”
The final object is an aesthetically pleasing silk kimono designed to create a warm and comforting atmosphere during intimate moments. Van Der Meer emphasizes the importance of warmth, noting that cold extremities can hinder sexual satisfaction for some women.
Future Aspirations
Currently, these tools are not available for sale. However, Van Der Meer hopes to eventually have them approved for therapeutic use in the Netherlands. “I prefer to take the time to ensure that these tools are genuinely beneficial rather than rushing a product to market,” she stated.
The response to her project has been overwhelmingly positive, with many survivors expressing appreciation for her efforts to address their needs. Even the medical community has shown interest, and Van Der Meer was invited to present at a conference on pelvic health.
Despite the praise, there have been criticisms from some who misunderstand the purpose of her work. “Some people mistakenly view my project as merely creating adult toys,” she said. “Each object is the result of extensive research aimed at addressing specific issues, and they collectively serve a multifaceted purpose.”
Van Der Meer strongly believes that healing from sexual trauma requires more than just innovative tools. “While these objects can guide women in exploring their bodies and recovering, it’s crucial to engage with a professional during this journey,” she advised.
Her creation is admirable, showcasing not only artistic talent but also a deep understanding of the healing process. It is hoped that her tools will soon be accessible to those in need, and that more individuals will follow her lead in finding thoughtful ways to support survivors of sexual trauma.
Additional Resources
For those exploring similar topics, check out this blog post for more resources. You can also visit Make a Mom for expert insights on insemination strategies and WomensHealth.gov for valuable information on fertility and pregnancy.
In summary, Julia Van Der Meer’s innovative tools represent a compassionate and artistic approach to healing from sexual trauma. Her work emphasizes the importance of a personalized recovery journey, integrating both creativity and therapeutic principles to help women reconnect with their bodies.