Below is a synopsis of an article* I recently read on the health benefits of sex. From boosting your immune system to improving sleep, here are some benefits of having a sex life you may not have known about.
Sex Relieves Stress
A body under stress produces the hormone cortisol; too much cortisol will leave you feeling tired and worn out. Feel good hormones, such as endorphins and oxytocin, are released during sex. These hormones lift your mood, reduce the level of cortisol and help you feel relaxed and connected to your partner.
I can personally attest to the stress reducing power of sex. So many times I have met a client for the first time and I can feel his nervousness through his tight muscles. As soon as he’s lying naked in post-orgasmic bliss, stress is no longer an issue.
Sex Helps You Sleep & Benefits Your Mental Health
Along with reduced stress, the hormone prolactin causes the drowsy, relaxed feeling. Prolactin helps you fell asleep easily and also improves the quality of sleep. The feel-good hormones such as endorphins and dopamine also boost your mood and regular sexual activity is linked to lower rates of depression.
Sex Boosts Your Immune System
Sex increases the production of antibodies which protect the body against infections. A small study found that people who engage in sex three times a week had more antibodies in their saliva than those who abstained. Another 2021 study found that sex was linked to having a better ability to fight COVID-19. I like to think I’m a perfect example of this since I’ve never had COVID.
Sex & Heart Health
Sex is the most enjoyable exercise; it gets your heart rate up, improves circulation and keeps blood pressure at a healthy number. A 2020 study of patients who had heart attacks reduced their risk of dying from heart disease if they had sex at least once a week.
Now that you know there’s health benefits to sex, along with the undeniable enjoyment, what are you waiting for?
Warm hugs,
Carolyn
*Schmidt, Nicole. “9 Surprising Health Benefits of Sex.” Webmd.com, 13 August 2024.