Technology has changed the way we work, communicate, and stay connected—but what if it’s also changing our relationships in ways we don’t even realize?

In this episode of Therapy, Tech & Takeout, Jackie Toale and Toni Teixeira welcome Dr. Julie Merriman, licensed professional counselor, educator, author, and host of the Sexy After 50 podcast, for a conversation about the surprising connection between technology, chronic stress, the nervous system, and intimacy.

Dr. Merriman explains why our brains and bodies were never designed for constant notifications, endless to-do lists, and being “always on.” When our nervous systems stay stuck in survival mode, desire, pleasure, and genuine connection often take a back seat.

Together, they discuss:

Why technology keeps us in a low-grade stress response
How chronic stress affects intimacy and desire
The difference between spontaneous and responsive desire
Simple ways to regulate your nervous system
How wearable technology like HRV monitors can support better self-awareness
Why movement, rest, and embodiment matter
The powerful idea that you’re not broken—you’ve been tamed

Whether you’re navigating burnout, struggling to slow down, or simply curious about how modern life is shaping your relationships, this episode offers practical insights you can start using today.

🌐 Website: https://juliemerrimanphd.com

📖 Free Desire Reset Guide:
https://juliemerrimanphd.com/desire

📚 Book:
Are We Gonna Have Sex or What?
Available on Amazon and at:
https://juliemerrimanphd.com

🎙️ Podcast:
Sexy After 50
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and at:
https://juliemerrimanphd.com

✨ Program:
Alive: 28 Days to Rebuild Your Capacity for Pleasure, Presence, and Desire
Launching August 2026
https://juliemerrimanphd.com/alive

📱 Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/dr.juliemerriman

📘 Pre-order Toni Teixeira’s upcoming book
Easy Somatic Exercises for Everyone’s Brain
https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Somatic-Exercises-Everyone-Brain/dp/B0GGTF8YFJ/

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Therapy, Tech & Takeout, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who could use the reminder that healing starts with understanding the nervous system.

Connect with Dr. Julie Merriman