WANT TO BOOST YOUR MOOD? RESEARCH SAYS HAVE HAPPY SEX
Have you ever been told that you're stressed and were advised to have sex? This comment is probably offensive, but there is some truth in it. However, this does not suggest that sex cures stress, but it can have some positive changes. It may provide a significant impact on your health. Sex also offers several gains to the general well-being, as proved by research. This article discusses what you should know about the relevance of sex in boosting your mood.
The Meaning of Sex
The meaning of sex varies from one person to another at different life stages. Relationship experts and psychologists have better knowledge about sex and can give more information. Most couples facing problems may not engage in sex. It could be because one partner feels pressure from an unresolved issue or are bored with the monotony of their sex lives. Lack of sex leads to a lack of emotional connection between the partners. The most basic reasons for engaging in sex include exchanging emotions and getting sexual satisfaction. Other reasons why people engage in sex include;
- To reduce tension or stress
- Boost self-esteem
- Show love or feel loved
- Feel powerful
- Create an emotional attachment
- Feel complete
Sex and Mood Change
Do you think sex changes mood? Physiologically, the body produces four essential hormones for mood alteration, serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, and oxytocin. These hormones are mostly associated with happiness.
The hormones play different roles. For instance, oxytocin causes emotions in sex and builds closeness and trust between the involved parties. A research that sampled 3, 800 adults suggested that the happiest people had quality sex frequently.
In brain action analysis, the limbic system ( the emotions control site) is active during arousal. Other effects seen at this stage are heightened sensitivity in different body parts, such as the erotic areas, and a fast heartbeat. Arousal primarily gets people ready for sexual activity. This blog discusses the different ways to achieve sexual satisfaction.
What’s the Secret to Sexual Satisfaction?
Consistent Orgasm
A study discovered that sexual satisfaction in men and women was achieved through penile-vaginal sex with a high frequency of reaching the climax. The research further pointed out the special role in maintaining intimacy through vaginal orgasm, compared to other orgasm arousers.
Another study by Dr. Muise and Anik Debrot, Ph.D., from Toronto Mississauga University, looked at the relationship between sexual activities and affection. Anik published a journal that suggested that individuals having sex get more affection during and several hours after sex. Therefore, sex is essential in romantic relationships to create an emotional connection. Even with decreased sex frequency, having affection can help maintain well-being.
Self-efficacy
Self-efficacy is mainly observed when people attain psychological and physical pleasure during sex. Traditionally, men were mostly the sole providers in families and initiated sex to imply dominance. However, a study recently dismissed this belief and suggested that gender roles do not affect sex frequency as viewed by couples. The main difference that affects sex quality is people’s initiation and achievement. For instance, if a couple relies more on traditional gender roles, the man mostly achieves high self-efficacy because he drives intimacy. On the other hand, women get a lower self-efficacy for not getting their sexual urges satisfied.
How Sex Makes People Happy
Reduces Depression and Anxiety
This point doesn't imply that sex cures depression or anxiety. However, sex leads to the release of feel-good hormones that temporarily ease symptoms associated with cognitive health. These hormones and chemicals are mood boosters that can increase bonding between partners and compassion. The feel-good hormones increase with more sex, and the stress hormone cortisol lowers.
Sex Helps Exercise
Sex is a form of light exercise. A study conducted on the effect of sex on calorie loss discovered that men burn more calories than women during sex. The number of calories shed isn’t much, but a person is still involved in an exercise. This can be great for mental well-being. Generally, exercise decreases depression and anxiety.
Improves Sleep
Sufficient and quality sleep is amazing for physical and mental health. Having enough rest makes people lively and reduces fatigue. If you have sleeping problems, you can try sex, preferably at night, to help release hormones that relax you more. Achieving an orgasm is even better since you produce prolactin hormone, making you sleepier.
Masturbation Goes the Same Way
If you are single or practicing chastity, solo plays are fun and give wonderful benefits to your body. With an orgasm, you will still produce the feel-good hormones and chemicals for a better mental state. Also, masturbation is better because it reduces the risks of unplanned pregnancies and STIs infections. You also learn more about yourself and how to give pleasure to yourself. This helps communicate with your current partner to inform them what spots give you intense pleasure.
The Bottom Line
To have a better sex life, discuss your sexual likes and dislikes with your partner. Couples should understand that after the first flutters in a new relationship, most partners may backslide due to more life pressure. That can include family, work, and chores, which can be setbacks to your sexual life. However, don’t let the spark die because experts and psychologists have a way to help. You can also learn by going through reads like the above article to discover how you can become better by gaining the effects of sex.