No sex = bad mood?
Can a lack of sex in a long-term relationship affect my mood? I’ve been feeling a bit blue lately.
Oh yes! But mainly in well-established couples.
Feel-good hormones
Probably because all the anxiety about promiscuous sex or unfaithfulness wipes out the benefits! Both men and women release all sorts of ‘feel good’ chemicals when they have regular, loving sex. Especially if they orgasm. Even just getting close and cuddling – especially naked – releases substances like oxytocin which makes the couple feel much happier.
Your endorphin levels will also rise and this produces a sense of euphoria, relaxation, and well-being. Endorphins are the safest tranquillisers in the world. They reduce insomnia and produce a deeper, more restful sleep. And they’re also very effective natural painkillers – so forget the ‘I’ve got a headache’ excuse in future!
Intimacy kills stress
Even just thinking about hugging and kissing reduces your stress levels, and the real thing’s an even better way to end the day. And it puts a spring in your step in the morning. The extra oxytocin will make you feel more bonded and in a much better mood all day.
Shiny hair and buff body
Couples who live together and are intimate two or three times a week have lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart attacks. They also look younger because lovemaking produces chemicals which slow down the effects of ageing. A woman’s hair will shines more, her skin becomes smoother, and there’s a lowered risk of dermatitis and rashes.
Then there’s the sneaky trick men’s bodies play on their partners during lovemaking. In addition to all the other nice things that they offer, they supply her with a complicated package of mood-enhancing chemicals that make her happier and much less likely to suffer depression.
Then there are the calories, of course. Sex burns calories and every muscle in your body gets toned, particularly the pelvis, buttocks, stomach, and arms.
Sex also raises the levels of natural amphetamines that curb the appetite, and serotonin which reduces cravings for stuff like junk food. Both of which improve your self-esteem. You feel more confident and attractive when you’re having lots of loving sex. You and your partner feel better about each other, and somehow life’s problems don’t seem so serious.
And last but not least, the more sex you have, the more you’ll be offered, because a sexually active body gives off pheromones that attract your partner again!
So what are you waiting for?
What good things have you noticed happening to you after sex? Share your experience below or on Facebook.