Intimate Pathways Center for Sexual Health

01/25/2026

This was a great read and deep reminder that running in the wheel of busyness and people pleasing will only bring chronic stress into our bodies. It is hard to be silent and still with yourself! Goals to set and habits to break! What helps you into the quiet places? 🌨️❄️🌬️

By Deepak Chopra, MD, FACP, FRCP Asleep: The active mind is constantly stressed Awake: The deeper mind brings the wisdom of silence Stress seems to catch us in a double bind—it is inescapable, but people do little to reduce it. This isn’t an unavoidable part of the human condition.

01/21/2026

🌞 Hugging is a Superpower 🌼
Today is National Hugging Day, a reminder that safe, human connection can be deeply healing.

When shared with consent and care, hugs offer powerful benefits for our bodies, hearts, and nervous systems:

✨ 5 Benefits of Hugging & Being Hugged ✨

1️⃣ Reduces stress – Hugs help lower cortisol and calm the nervous system
2️⃣ Boosts emotional safety – Physical connection can increase feelings of trust and security
3️⃣ Releases oxytocin – The “bonding hormone” that supports connection and closeness
4️⃣ Supports mental health – Hugs can ease feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and sadness
5️⃣ Strengthens relationships – Loving touch helps reinforce intimacy and emotional connection

If it feels right today, share a hug with someone you care about—or offer one to yourself. Virtual hugs,💜 Traci

12/31/2025

Goodbye, 2025.

This week I’ve spent time sifting through memories of 2025 —of the people who have touched my life, and of the profound gift of being allowed to touch the hearts of others.

In 2025, I completed my very first clinical research project in collaboration with UAMS and the NIH. Through this work, I had the honor of sharing intimate space with 40 women across the United States. Wow. I am forever humbled by the courage it takes to tell one’s story, and I never stop being moved by the privilege of listening.

This year also gave me a national stage to speak boldly about oncology sexual health with cancer care providers across the country. My voice is loud and proud on behalf of cancer patients and their partners who navigate extraordinary relational and intimate challenges along the way.

My private practice as a Sexuality Counselor continues to bring me deep fulfillment. Living inside relationships means holding joy, grief, longing, despair, and hope—sometimes all at once. When people invite me into that sacred space, where empathy must be center stage, it is nothing short of a gift.

As I look toward 2026, I am stepping forward gently, with eyes open to new opportunities. I am committed to protecting my peace. I am loving deeply and holding tightly to those who love me in return.

With gratitude, reflection, and hope—
Here’s to what has been, and what’s still unfolding. 🌟💥💜

12/31/2025

This is a nice article talking about perimenopause and menopause. Great information for all women and those who love a woman! Information is powerful as you develop self-advocacy language and know how to care for your body as it changes!

Menopause has a wide range of symptoms and brings several health risks. Yet people worldwide know little about it and awareness and care services remain inadequate, experts warn.

12/31/2025

This is worth sharing a thousand times over for those on the menopause part of the journey… specifically for their mates! 💜

7200 likes, 434 comments. “UR MIDLIFE WIFE IS A WONDER WOMAN!”

12/25/2025

We are enjoying a much needed break during this holiday time and hope you are finding moments to treasure as well.

We wish for you love that’s chosen daily,
With a renewed priority and attention,
With mindful care and shared intention,
For moments of peaceful, quiet connection.

May the world pull just enough to keep you
Engaged with life, awake, aware—
But leave the space for turning toward
Each other with curiosity and care.

We wish you peace that moves within,
Soft and steady, calm and true.
Merry Christmas from our hearts,
With hope, connection, and love to you.

Happy Holidays,

Mike and Traci 🤟✌️🖖

12/01/2025

Growing never ends!

This year stretched me in ways I didn’t expect.
In April, I had the profound honor of presenting at ONS Congress in Denver—a moment that felt like planting my flag after nearly 11 years of championing oncology sexual health.

Since then, I’ve spoken across the nation, leaning into public speaking with equal parts passion, purpose, and vulnerability. Growth looks different for everyone… this year, it looked like boarding passes, hotel nights, and choosing courage over imposter syndrome.

We were all made to do hard things. Traci

This past year has stretched me, strengthened me, and surprised me in ways I never expected. When I look back at the miles traveled, the hotel nights, the early-morning flights, and the countless rooms filled with oncology professionals, one word rises above all the others: growth. And wrapped aroun...

11/27/2025

Love this gratitude reminder!

11/27/2025

May your day have lovely moments of thanks and giving! All are welcome at our table - come on by!

11/11/2025

Finally! A win in the name of women’s health! 💜