Good sex on a regular basis can actually relieve or eliminate stress and anxiety. Sexually active adults are generally less stressed, calm, and happier. Why? Sex causes a release of oxytocin and endorphins, similar to those released during exercise. The release of these chemicals helps create a feeling of calm and clarity. But here’s the ironic truth, or should we say the “69-trap”: Although a fiery sex life can help relieve stress and anxiety, stress and anxiety can kill a fiery sex life.

For many adults, not having sex can lead to the accumulation of even more mental tension, which, if left unchecked, can ultimately lead to a decreased sense of self-worth. Once that happens, the sex machine within you can shut down completely, blocking you from the benefits of this very natural and beautiful act. Also, according to a study sponsored by the University of Göttingen in Germany, sexless people often take on more work to compensate for their frustration. And assuming increased labor results in, you got it, even less sex.

For sexless adults, this doesn’t mean they rush out the door and seek a willing libido to help them jump-start a sex life. Selectivity is key. It also doesn’t mean that staying home and using self-satisfaction (masturbation) techniques is an equal substitute for doing it with someone special. Actually, if you can reach orgasm on your own, but can’t do it through sex, you could have performance anxiety. Most doctors agree that the positive effects of sex on anxiety are magnified when you do it with someone who plays an integral role in your life. Often just seeing someone you love and trust with your feelings is enough to ease anxiety.

A BIG “O” IS JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED

As beautiful and satisfying as the act of sex can be, it is nothing more than a crescendo or journey to that final, often euphoric resting place called an orgasm. It is the conclusion of the plateau phase of intercourse. For women, there is some debate surrounding the pleasure and effectiveness of clitoral orgasms versus vaginal orgasms. The fact is, they both feel great and deliver anxiety-reversing results. These are some of the physical and mental reactions that occur during orgasm:

• Breathing, pulse, and blood pressure continue to rise during sexual intercourse.
• Muscle tension and blood vessel congestion reach a peak.
• Sometimes orgasm comes with a muscle grip reflex of the hands and feet.
• There is an abundant release of oxytocin and endorphins.
• After orgasm, there is a reduction in initial blood pressure.
• Ultimately, tension is released producing an unrivaled relaxed state of mind.

When the sexual crescendo concludes, the recirculation of blood through the brain and the balance of the body causes a momentary sense of welcome weakness followed by a restoration of clarity, calm and new confidence (especially if your partner also achieves orgasm) . It feels like all of your fears are literally blown away and eliminated.

RECOMMENDED SEXUAL FREQUENCY

Relationship experts recommend that couples have sex at least 2-3 times a week. Of course, singles can see the numbers double or even triple those of couples. Some people have brief sexual breakups during the day, affectionately referred to as “quick sex,” and report seeing a dramatic improvement in confidence, energy, and life accomplishments. Regardless of how often you do it, structure your goal around eliminating anxiety first, and then see if the great sex comes. Anxiety can be dangerous and can sometimes lead to death. Aside from medicinal approaches, there are many alternative ways to effectively treat anxiety. Read articles and reports on natural options for anxiety relief.