Frisky Business

Sex is an ubiquitous and taboo topic in our society, even though it’s perfectly natural. Many will choose to ignore it and blush when it is brought up, especially in public. Sexual activity certainly is not a proper topic to discuss at supper time, except in certain and close circles. Yet it is undeniable that sexual energy is all around us, some pick it up better than others, but you can see it everywhere walking down any street in advertisements and plastered on billboards.

It is not all lust and vulgarity, unless you want it to be, it’s one of the healthiest things we can do. Wellness benefits of getting down with a little bump and grind to do a wee bit of hanky panky are wide ranging and impressive despite some prudish and societal norms.

Intercource lowers your blood pressure and improves your stress response. A Scottish study showed that people who had recently engaged in sexual activity showed decreased rise in blood pressure and stress hormones when performing a challenging activity, and those who hadn’t had sex in a 2 week period displayed less ability to handle stress and had increased cortisol and blood pressure. Another study showed that sex 2 times a week was associated with a 45% less likely chance of developing heart disease. These life protecting benefits are due to the increased oxygenation of the blood and complete mind distraction that is achieved during intersourse.

Sex improves hormones and immune system. Studies show that sex 1-2 times per week can increase amounts of immunoglobulin A by up to 300%. Menopausal women experience fewer hot flashes. Men benefit from healthier levels of testosterone. Engaging in intimacy has a regulatory effect on hormones, improved testosterone and estrogen balance results in a more youthful appearance with healthier hair and skin. Having an orgasm releases a hormone called DHEA which improves immunity and encourages tissue and skin repair.

Engaging in intercource is good for the pelvic floor as the muscles contract during orgasm which can help to improve bladder control and help to avoid incontinence. A strong pelvic floor is advantageous during pregnancy and in the birth process.

Sex does count as exercise as it boosts the heart rate, which burns calories, increase stamina, and strengthens muscles. Depending on how creative one gets it can even improve balance and flexibility. Sexual exertion can equate to walking walking about 5 miles per hour which is a moderate pace and safe exercise intensity for anybody. On average it can burn around 100 calories for every 30 minutes of activity.

Regular sexual activity has been shown by a number a studies to relieve pain and inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, back pain, migraines, cluster headaches, and menstrual cramping. Endorphins that are released during and after sex have a similar chemical structure to that of opiate drugs, so it gives you a rush of pain relief and good feelings. Additional studies show it helps depression, infertility, menstrual cycle irregularity, and endometriosis.

Oxytocin and prolactin are hormones released during sex which induce relaxation and promote sleep. Studies show that couples who practice more intimacy have increased levels of oxytocin which also helps you to feel more bonded with a deeper connection, encouraging greater empathy. Couples that fulfill each other have higher levels of satisfaction. This is not only true of intercourse but it also applicable for simple acts of affection, caring, and love as well. Studies have shown that a 20 second hug with a person you care deeply about will reduce tension, improve the connection, and improve moods significantly.

People who have more frequent sex are more confident and deal with stressful situations more effectively. Sex improves body image and lessens anxiety. Post sex boosts to micro-circulation throughout all of the body’s tissue plus the flow of healing hormones add that glow to skin and sparkle to eyes that no amount of makeup can imitate. After sex the body produces significantly higher amounts of substances such as DHEA which helps heal the skin and makes you appear more youthful.

Increased levels of DHEA are associated with decreased risk of heart disease. In theory for men sex may decrease the risks of prostate cancer due to flushing of potential carcinogens from the prostate. Women benefit from cervical contractions which improve circulation in the tissues and help to prevent growth of abnormal cells on the cervix. At least 4 different studies suggest that women gain an advantage over breast cancer with increased intercource.

Intercource is not only fun but it has some varied and impressive benefits. The next step should be clear, strengthen the bond with your partner, have a shag with your honey, make some time for some shameless lovin’ on a regular basis with your sweets. Don’t forget the foreplay. XOX