Nature’s Cure All: Sex!

Not feeling so great? Nervous about a big work presentation? Having one of those just a little short on the confidence days? Whatever the problem, we’ve got the cure! Researchers say having sex is one of the best ways to make yourself feel better – no matter what ails you!

“Orgasm triggers oxytocin release, causing you to feel more relaxed yet energized with a clear mind,” says Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, MD tells ivillage. So rather than rushing out of bed on the morning of a presentation, snuggle in with your sweetie for a little morning activity. It may be just the thing you need to focus according to Dr. Teitelbaum. “Sex has been shown to decrease stage fright and anxiety in front of audiences,” ivillage quotes him. “So ignore that old advice to picture the crowd naked -be naked with your partner (before you go to work) instead.”

Sex is also proven beneficial for your skin! “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.” That’s not to mention the healthy glow that getting your blood flowing gives you. Need feel and look your best for a fancy event or night on the town? Hit the sheets and see yourself shine afterward!

On top of all that, when you’re starting to feel sick, there’s no better preventative medicine. Sex stimulates the immune system and if you have it regularly, you’re less vulnerable to colds and flu according to recent studies. Dr. Deborah Anapol tells ivillage that even deep kissing has it’s benefits – like lowering blood pressure and cholesterol in the long term and stimulating antibody production to help fight infection. Even handholding, the New York Times recently reported, can bring immediate stress relief to loved ones.

Still not convinced? Dr. Teitelbaum tells ivillage you’ll look up to 10 years younger if you do it three times a week! Plus, the endorphins regular sex releases are the body’s natural opiates. As Royalle says “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.”