In a world where desire often means urgency, speaking about intimacy based on slowness, emotional connection, and no pressure for climax sounds almost subversive.
And yet, Karezza is not a modern invention. It’s a practice with over a century of history — though few remember it.
What is Karezza, really?
Karezza is a form of conscious sexuality focused on emotional, energetic, and physical union without the goal of orgasm.
The word comes from the Italian carezza, meaning “caress”.
Unlike conventional sex, Karezza invites a softer, slower, more mindful rhythm, where the purpose is not the end, but the journey: presence, breath, connection.
It’s an invitation to feel without rushing, to love without losing yourself, to experience intimacy as an art of presence — not performance.
A forgotten origin: Alice Bunker Stockham and the intimate revolution
Few know that Karezza dates back to the 19th century and was introduced by a pioneering physician: Alice Bunker Stockham.
She was one of the first licensed female gynecologists in the U.S., and one of the few women of her time to speak openly about female sexuality from a medical, ethical, and spiritual perspective.
In her book Karezza: Ethics of Marriage (1896), Stockham argued that sex could be a regenerative force in relationships — but only when approached with tenderness, mutual respect, and inner awareness.
In the conservative Victorian era, her ideas were radical. She proposed that real pleasure doesn’t come from climax, but from sustained connection — from shared energy and deep emotional attunement.
Not abstinence, not tantra — something else
Although Karezza shares similarities with Tantric or Taoist sexual practices, its origin and focus are distinct:
- It’s not about repressing desire, but transforming it into bonding.
- It’s not religious or mystical.
- It’s a practical, everyday practice rooted in presence, affection, and gentle awareness.
In this way, Karezza is deeply Western — and deeply relevant.
Why Karezza matters today
We live in an age of overstimulation and emotional disconnection.
Fast relationships. Quick pleasure. Little depth.
And amidst all this, Karezza offers a quiet revolution:
A way to love that doesn’t deplete.
That doesn’t rush.
That connects — slowly, soulfully.
It’s more than a method. It’s a rhythm.
A reminder that love doesn’t need urgency to feel intense.
Want to explore more?
If this resonates with you, we invite you to explore our book:
“Karezza: Beyond Pleasure” — a clear and compassionate guide to this intimate philosophy.
Available in EPUB and PDF formats.
In summary
Karezza is not a new trend — it’s ancient wisdom rediscovered.
And maybe now, we’re ready to remember it.
Because in times of excess, loving slowly is a quiet act of rebellion.
