In July 2019 Ashley obtained her certification as a Bodysex coach after training with famed pro-sex feminist Betty Dodson, author of the bestselling memoir Sex for One and widely known as the Mother of Masturbation. Betty, along with her partner Carlin Ross, host the original Bodysex retreats in Betty's legendary Manhattan apartment and created the facilitator certification program. Ashley hosts small retreats in her beach apartment in Long Beach, California, and travels across California and the world bringing Bodysex to vulva owners everywhere.
Taking a Bodysex workshop is transformative. We focus on overcoming negative body image and pleasure anxiety.
Yes, they're done in the nude but it's not sexual. Betty developed these workshops using the consciousness raising model of second wave feminism where women-identified folks and vulva owners got together and shared their experience first person. You can read about past workshops to better understand the experience here (scroll down to read blog posts written by Carlin and our Bodysex leaders).
Whatever your race, orientation, upbringing, or country of origin, we have wounds to heal. All are welcome.
Upcoming Cosmic Bodysex Retreats:
Two day retreats hosted in Central California by Ashley Manta. You are responsible for booking your own travel and hotel. Below are the dates and some nearby hotels/Airbnb's for your convenience:
TBD for Summer 2024
Closest airports:
San Jose
Nearby hotels:
California Mountain Inn | Forest Hotel | Retreat Getaways
Dream Weaver Ranch Retreat (Airbnb)
The suggested donation is $700 by Venmo/Zelle or cash (preferred). We offer a student/hardship sliding scale where you pay what you can ($400 minimum).
We will provide almond and coconut oil. We will also offer samples of of cannabis-infused arousal oil. Please bring a bathrobe, towel, and anything else you need to feel comfortable. As a reminder, this entire retreat is conducted NUDE.
Frequently asked questions:
Who is this for?
This is an empowerment and sexual pleasure workshop designed for people with vulvas to learn how to love and celebrate their pussy power! It doesn't matter how you identify your gender, if you have a vulva and you want to discover ways to shed shame and embrace joy, this retreat is for you!
What if I have my period?
No problem. Someone has their period at almost every workshop. You can use a tampon, menstrual cup, or a piece of natural sea sponge during genital show & tell and erotic recess.
What if I have a yeast infection?
No problem. I would recommend some cranberry pills or the monistat egg to treat your yeast infection then head over to the retreat location.
What if I can't orgasm?
If you orgasm, great. If you don't, that's ok too. Orgasm is NOT the goal. We're here to heal body shame, overcome sexual guilt and experience true sisterhood. There's no agenda and no expectations.
Can I keep the vibrator?
The price of the barbell is included in the workshop fee. If you want to keep the Rechargeable Magic Wand you used during the workshop, you can and the price is $124.95.
Can I bring my own barbell and wand?
Yes. If you've already purchased the barbell and the wand, you can bring them with you to the workshop.
Can I bring something to eat?
Of course. We provide beverages (filtered water--bring a water bottle!) and some veggies, cookies, fruit, and nuts.
If you have any other questions, you can email me directly: [email protected]
I wish every vulva owner could take a workshop and connect with themselves as part of their sexual rite of passage. Hope to see you!
To reserve a spot in one of the workshops, send me an email:
[email protected]
Check out Betty Dodson on Viceland's Slutever!