Sex is not a bad thing. In fact, as many may attest, sex can be very good.

Sex is amongst the most basic, dare I say seminal activities that humans engage in.

Indeed other than those people conceived in test tubes and the allegation of Immaculate Conception, every human ever born has arrived as a result a sexual encounter.

In typical style however we humans tend to make this sweet simple activity fraught with complication. The politics of sexuality can contain considerable prejudice.

One example of the tension regarding sex can be found in recent headlines about concern that a second sex shop might open in Manly. Apparently having this second shop may attract the unsavoury souls that could corrupt Manly’s family friendliness.

It is of particular concern it appears that this mooted establishment will be in the vicinity of a shop that sells children’s clothes and in view of the mayoral office. It seems that the suggestions here is that sexuality is somehow infectious and ought be hidden behind a veil of secrecy.

Part of the problem is our cultures confusion about the difference between sex and physical intimacy.

Physical intimacy is an absolute necessity for good mental health. Physical intimacy can include activities associated with sex. It can also involve entirely non-sexual activities such as holding hands and hugging. All people require this conduct to be present throughout their lives.

Sex associated with genital stimulation is not so essential, but for the event of natural conception. Indeed there are many people who decide on celibacy and are able to live perfectly fulfilling lives.

I reckon that the sex industry fails to represent the beautiful opportunity sexuality does ideally entail. Commercialising this slice of physical intimacy encourages an unrealistic view of sex as some sort of sport rather than something more sacred.

The issue is not however the presence of pornography rather its the fear of an addictive allure. Instead of shooting the merchant with prohibition it may be better to relax about sexuality and simply reach for closeness, then enjoy it when it comes your way.

Martin Hunter Jones is an honorary life member of the Australian Counselling Association. He has a practice on the Northern Beaches. Phone 9973 4997.