When we’re stressed and anxious, sex is usually the last thing on our minds. However, stress has often been referred to as the “silent killer” given the horrific effects it can have on our health, with heart attacks and strokes possible in extreme cases, according to several different studies. However, it turns out that having sex with your partner when you’re experiencing stress is a great way to feel better much more quickly.
- You don’t always have to be in the mood. Relationship expert Tracey Sainsbury told The Mail that even if your head isn’t in the game when it comes to getting intimate when you’re feeling anxious, doing so could be beneficial. She says that having sex three times per week is the magic number, as the release of “happy hormones” will skyrocket while the stress hormone cortisol will come down.
- More feel-good hormones = more stress-fighting power. As your levels of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin rise through intimacy with a partner, so too does your body’s ability to effectively fight stress. The more you stimulate those hormones via sex, the less stress will overwhelm you, which is what makes it such a worthwhile endeavor.
- Sex 3 times a week can beat stress and boost your mood. “Quite honestly, it doesn’t have to be beautfiul, romantic lovemaking. It can be a quickie downstairs on the sofa or in the kitchen. It doesn’t have to be in bed at night,” Sainsbury added. She said lunch breaks while working from home are the perfect time for a quick mood booster.
- And it’s not just the physical effects of sex that are beneficial against stress. Spending more time connecting with your partner on this level will increase the bond you are, make you feel more connected, and could just reignite the fun, lighthearted side of your relationship again. It’s worth a try, don’t you think?
- Start small and work your way up. Even if sex three times a week feels like a bit too much at the moment, there’s no bad place to start. Grab your partner and give it a go. You might be surprised at the immediate sense of relief (and release!) you feel.
