The journey to recovery from sexual trauma is unique for each individual, and every survivor deserves the opportunity to heal at their own pace and in their own manner. Reconnecting with one’s sexuality, if that is a chosen path, can often be one of the most challenging aspects of this healing process.
Meet Julia Hartman, an artist, designer, and a survivor of sexual trauma who intimately understands this journey. Drawing from her own experiences, Hartman has crafted a collection of remarkable tools aimed at assisting women in gently re-engaging with their sexuality. A recent alumna of the prestigious Design Academy Eindhoven in the Netherlands, Hartman showcased her innovative “sensory tools” at the latest Dutch Design Week.
“My project was motivated by my own struggles with sexual dysfunction following traumatic experiences,” Hartman shared. “Throughout my recovery, I found the clinical focus on penetration to be frustratingly narrow. I realized that a more holistic approach was essential for genuine healing.” Thus, her impactful project came to life.
According to Dezeen, a well-respected Dutch design publication, Hartman collaborated with medical professionals and women in recovery to create five unique objects that facilitate the rediscovery of sexuality post-trauma. “These tools encourage women to explore what feels pleasurable, alleviating fear and discomfort while helping them regain confidence in their bodies,” reports Dezeen.
Not only is this concept refreshingly crucial, but the tools themselves are visually stunning, evoking a sense of calm and serenity. The first item is a specially designed mirror equipped with lighting to assist women in exploring their vulvas and vaginas. “Research indicates that observing one’s own vulva can significantly boost body positivity. However, for those who have experienced trauma, this can be a daunting task,” Hartman explains.
Next is a delicately crafted horse-hair brush that invites women to experience soft, gentle touches. This brush can be used solo or with a partner. If you’re ready to delve into intimacy with someone else, Hartman believes starting with such an object can ease the transition and foster better communication.
As she elaborates, “Discussing trauma can be incredibly difficult, but providing a partner with an object that facilitates therapy can open many doors for dialogue.”
The following two items are designed with biofeedback in mind, offering insights into the user’s physical state. One tool is placed on the belly and lights up when breathing becomes erratic, reminding users to relax. The other monitors pelvic floor tension and vibrates if the user tightens up. “Trauma can instigate subconscious reflexes in the body,” Hartman explains. “To break this cycle, it’s crucial to understand the triggers, allowing for emotional healing.”
The final piece is a luxurious silk kimono, designed to instill warmth and comfort during intimate moments. Hartman emphasizes the importance of warmth, noting that cold extremities can hinder sexual pleasure for some women.
Currently, these tools are not available for purchase, but Hartman hopes to change that in the future. She mentions that obtaining official therapy approval in the Netherlands requires further collaboration with research institutions. “This is a lengthy and intricate process,” she says. “But my goal is to bring effective tools to the market that truly support women, rather than just something that seems appealing.”
The response to Hartman’s work has been overwhelmingly positive. Survivors have expressed appreciation for her insights and the relevance of her project to their experiences. She has even garnered attention from the medical community, receiving invitations to speak at conferences addressing pelvic health.
However, some critics have misinterpreted her intentions. “There are certainly skeptics who don’t grasp the depth of my work,” Hartman acknowledges. “Some perceive it as merely creating adult toys, but each object is backed by extensive research aimed at addressing specific issues, with overlapping functionalities.”
Hartman wants to emphasize that healing from sexual trauma transcends the use of tools. She sees her creations as guides for self-exploration and gradual recovery. “Professional support is always beneficial when dealing with trauma,” she advises. “These objects are intended to help you understand your body and recover step by step.”
Let’s applaud Hartman for her courage, sensitivity, and creative brilliance in addressing such a vital need. We eagerly await the day her creations become available for purchase and hope that more innovators like her will continue to develop gentle and loving solutions for survivors of sexual abuse.
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Summary
Julia Hartman, a talented artist and sexual trauma survivor, has designed a series of innovative tools to assist women in reconnecting with their sexuality and healing from trauma. Her approach emphasizes a holistic understanding of recovery, focusing on self-exploration and communication. The beautifully crafted tools include a mirror, a gentle brush, biofeedback devices, and a silk kimono, all aimed at fostering comfort and confidence. While not yet available for purchase, Hartman’s work has received positive feedback from both survivors and the medical community.