18 May 2024 12:10 am Views - 244
Where do the thrills of the bedroom fit into our health and well-being? Quite snugly, it turns out. A fulfilling sex life significantly boosts our physical health, alleviates stress, and elevates overall well-being. Sex is a notable stress reliever, because of the endorphins and oxytocin released during intimate activities. These natural body chemicals enhance your mood and create a sense of well-being.
Research suggests that sexually active people have higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody that plays a crucial role in the immune function of mucous membranes. A study conducted by researchers at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania found that people who had sex once or twice a week had significantly higher levels of IgA compared to those who had sex less frequently. This boost in IgA helps your body ward off infections, from the common cold to more insidious viruses, offering a fun prescription for staying healthy.
“Sex helps regulate the levels of estrogen and testosterone within your body. Estrogen plays a critical role in preventing heart disease and promoting bone health. Meanwhile, testosterone strengthens muscles and bones and helps transport oxygen throughout the body. Beyond just feeling good in the moment, regular sexual engagement contributes to longer-term resilience against anxiety and stress, keeping you not just physically fit, but mentally sharp as well,” says sexologist and psychiatrist Dr. Ketan Parmar.
Good for the Heart and Mind
Sexual activity is akin to a moderate form of exercise. It increases the heart rate and promotes better blood circulation, which is crucial for heart health. A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that men who had sex twice or more a week had a 45% lower risk of developing heart disease compared to men who had sex once a month or less. The scientists linked this benefit to the physical activity involved in sex, which strengthens the heart and improves blood flow. Sexual activity includes physical intimacy, which can significantly affect emotional health and wellbeing. Another study in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that sexual activity can reduce stress and is associated with improved mental health. The emotional connection, combined with the release of hormones such as dopamine and oxytocin during sex, helps reduce anxiety and depression and increases overall happiness. Oxytocin also promotes sleep. This hormone, alongside endorphins, has a profound calming effect, often leading to drowsiness and improved sleep quality after sex. Good sleep is associated with better immune function, metabolism, and mood regulation.
Sexual Energy is Healing
Many traditions across the world have recognised the vital role of sexual energy in health and spirituality. For instance, the ancient Indian text Kama Sutra not only details sexual positions but also discusses the spiritual and health benefits of sexual energy. Similarly, traditional Chinese medicine and Taoist practices view sexual energy as a key element to longevity and vitality. In fact, UNESCO affiliate and mythologist Seema Anand said on my podcast that Tantric sex is highly misunderstood. It is actually rooted in the belief of balancing and enhancing life force through sexual union.
She explained how sexual energy, when properly channelled, can even alleviate conditions like chronic pain or gastric issues through the manipulation of body energy flows.
In modern times, while we may not all follow ancient sexual philosophies, there's a growing appreciation for the interconnectedness of our sexual health and our overall well-being. As we continue to break down taboos and foster open discussions about sexuality, we're rediscovering what many ancient cultures knew all along: that a fulfilling sex life is integral to our physical, emotional, and relational health.
In embracing a more holistic view of sex, it becomes clear that it’s not just about the physical act itself but about creating a deeper connection with oneself and one’s partner. The intimacy and trust built through a healthy sexual relationship are foundational not only for personal satisfaction but for overall health and wellness. So, it might be time for you to rethink the importance of good sex; not just for pleasure but as a key component of a healthy lifestyle.