Was It Good for You?
Yes! Check out the many ways frequent sex can amp up your life
by Melissa Walker
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If someone's having a particularly cranky day, she may hear friends say, "Honey, you need to get laid." While that's an oversimplification of the many factors that cause bad moods, it's not an entirely off-base assessment.
Ever wonder why people seem to have a bounce in their step or a bit of a glow after having sex? The benefits of frequent, safe physical intimacy may be more science-based than you think. So here's a list of reasons why getting busy is good for you (Great news in time for Valentine's Day).
Do it for your boss
"Orgasm triggers oxytocin release, causing you to feel more relaxed yet energized with a clear mind," says Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, MD. So instead of saving your energy before the big meeting, a romp in the sheets may be just the thing to help you focus? Yes, says Dr. Teitelbaum. "Sex has been shown to decrease stage fright and anxiety in front of audiences," he adds. "So ignore that old advice to picture the crowd naked‑-be naked with your partner instead" (before the presentation, of course).
Avoid sickness
Forget to have your flu shot? Light some candles and put on soft music. "Sex stimulates the immune system," says Dr. Deborah Anapol, PhD, author of The Seven Natural Laws of Love. Recent studies show that regular sex makes you less vulnerable to colds and flu. And for romantic types, tell your partner that prolonged, deep kissing has been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the long term. In the short term, kissing releases bacteria that stimulates the production of antibodies, which help fight off infection. Even handholding, the New York Times recently reported, can bring immediate stress relief to loved ones.
Can exercise actually be fun?
Spin class and yoga are great, but sex has a role in cardio and flexibility training too. "Sex improves overall circulation and flexibility," says couples therapist Wendy Allen, PhD. Innovative positions (Kama Sutra, anyone?) can stretch your body to its limits‑-think high-impact yoga in the comfort of your bedroom. Derek Noble, host of FIT TV's Urban Fitness, praises the intrinsic muscle building that happens during sex. "You work your pelvic core, gluts, abdominals and legs," he says. "It really is a full body workout that, if sustained, will help you tone and sculpt your body." So no more quickies, boys. We've got some abs to build.
Save on your skincare regimen
"The perspiration that coats your body after vigorous lovemaking is full of nourishing oils for your skin," says Candida Royalle, author of How to Tell a Naked Man What to Do. "It's best not to rush into the shower, but to allow the body to re-absorb these natural oils."
You're so not getting old
Sex triggers the release of a growth hormone that aids in weight loss and pain relief, according to Dr. Teitelbaum. "Studies show that having sex three times a week will leave you looking up to 10 years younger," he adds. Bonus! Hello, confidence!Last but not least, having frequent sex totally ups your "I'm fantastic" factor. "Sex releases endorphins, your body's natural opiates," says Royalle. "A good round of lovemaking will create feelings of well-being and contentment. It can actually fill your body with positive feelings about yourself, your lover and your life."
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