If you are not having sex or not having sex as often as you wish, listen up because doing without sex can have negative effects both physically and emotionally.

Sex is not a “guilty pleasure.” It should be celebrated and knowing it is good for you may help get those who are doing without back into the game. Or at least thinking about it and we all know where thoughts of sex can lead!

1. Sex can improve your cardio health. Sex or sexual arousal releases the hormones adrenaline, noradrenaline, prolactin, DHEA and testosterone. One side effect of all these hormones surging through your body is that it strengthens the heart and cardiovascular system.

2. Sex can improve your sleep. After orgasm we release a hormone called oxytocin which acts as a natural sedative. Just think, a good romp will not only mean orgasm but the chance to catch up on some much needed rest.

3. Sex provides the benefits of exercise. Sex causes muscles to contract, our heart rates to increase and our bodies to release calories and fat from stored up energy. We respond to sex the same way he respond to a good workout and in this woman’s opinion sex is way more fun than an hour at the gym.

4. Sex relieves pain. While sexually stimulated our tolerance for pain increases. The release of corticosteroids and endorphins during sexual stimulation provides short term relief for all sorts of ailments. Got a migraine? Maybe all you need is to get laid.

5. Sex can improve your mood. The same endorphins that ease pain can help us feel euphoric after having sex. People who have regular sex have a decreased chance of suffering depression.

6. Sex relieves stress. Thanks to the high level of oxytocin during orgasm we are able to let go and focus on nothing but that orgasm. Something of pleasure becomes the center of our attention. It makes sense that the more sex you have the higher your level of oxytocin. People with high levels of oxytocin handle stress in a healthier way.

Sex is just one more way to be happier and healthier. I’m not encouraging anyone to throw caution to the wind and become the neighborhood tramp but, partaking of good, old fashioned sex does no harm to your reputation and can darn sure make life more enjoyable.

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