HEALTH
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sexu HEALING
Sex isn't just about the finish, it can also have many long-term health benefits // ADAM VOSSEN
he idea of sexual healing isn't just something for Marvin Gaye to croon about. Shacking up certainly feels good, but it can also improve your health in several ways.
The benefits of sex and experiencing an orgasm can range from head to toe for both men and women. College-aged individuals might not worry about starting good sexual habits, but thinking about those habits now can have big benefits later in life, says Joni Frater and Esther Lastique, partners and authors of Love Her Right: The Married Man's Guide to Lesbian Secrets for Great Sex.
You might think that your heart racing is just part of being turned on, but sex can be as good of a cardio workout as time spent at the gym. Thirty minutes of sexual activity can burn a minimum of 150 calories, and the more active you are in bed the more calories you can burn.
"I'd rather be horizontal with a smile on my face than vertical on a treadmill." Lastique says.
With any kind of exercise that raises your heart rate, sex can dramatically reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease. For men, having sex on a regular basis can reduce the chances of developing erectile dysfunction. Because ED is caused by problems with blood flow to the penis, the authors liken it to a "heart attack in your pants" and say that men with ED are also at risk for an actual heart attack.
Having sex on a regular basis is also pressure to keep in good shape, says Logan Jones, Frankfort junior. He says staying in shape not only helps you look better but helps you last longer and stay flexible.
"It really helps me relieve stress, which is especially helpful around midterm time," Jones says. Jones also recommends using sex to solve any relationship dispute; Just "bang it out." This can help you focus on the good qualities of the person you're dating, he says.
Staying sexually active can also prevent testosterone levels from declining, which happens as men age. Testosterone levels are linked to many aspects of a man's health. Alzheimer's patients are reported to have low testosterone levels and testosterone is linked to other brain functions. Men with low testosterone may have lower libidos, gain weight as they age and may have a higher risk
of developing clinical depression. Having sex can lower the risk of all of these. Frater says, A man in his 20s that ejaculates five times a week can also lower the risk of prostate cancer by a third, she says.
Another benefit of sex is that it increases the amount of an antibody called immunoglobulin A or IgA. These antibodies protect you from getting colds and infections. The release of hormones during sex can also have multiple benefits. Oxycytin is a hormone that helps build intimacy with your partner, but it can also work as a painkiller, along with endorphins. Endorphins improve mood and can lift depression.
After sex, Katie Hogan, Topeka junior, feels elated and glowing from the endorphin release. "I think there's a noticeable difference in myself that comes with an intimate, monogamous relationship," she says. Hogan says she thinks the physical expression of love is healthy for a relationship and makes her feel more desirable.
The benefits of sex for women are good, but the benefits of a female orgasm are greater. Frater and Lastique say. The risk of breast cancer, osteoporosis and Alzheimer's are all shown to decline if a woman has orgasms on a regular basis. Sex's role as a painkiller can also alleviate menstrual pain.
The authors acknowledge that for many college-aged women, an orgasm may seem difficult to reach because college-aged men may not be skilled or considerate enough to help. Masturbation can often be an alternative, and the benefits are still relevant, such as lowered risk for post-partum depression, heightened confidence and more comfort in sexual situations.
An orgasm makes Emily, Lenexa senior, feel energized and she says having sex on a regular basis with her boyfriend gives her incentive to stay physically fit.
"If you're missing out on sex, then you're missing out on a great thing that is good for you too." Emily says.
So when you get that feeling that you want sexually healing, take Marvin's advice and give your body some of the best and most fun natural medicine there is. Jp
Photo illustration by Jerry Wang
Not-so-guilty pleasure. Sex not only allows for personal enjoyment, but it can also be a good dose of cardio, relieve stress and lower the risk for breast cancer in women. So get between the sheets and improve your health.
sex TIPS
The authors of Love Her Right: The Married Man's Guide to Lesbian Secrets for Great Sex. Dr. Joni Frater and Esther Lastique, give the following tips to men and women for increasing satisfaction during sex.
1. Have oral sex. Oral sex is often the best way for children to learn.
2. Have a night of mutual masturbation to show each other what you like. This will build intimacy in the relationship as well as lead to more fulfilling sexual experiences.
3. Let the woman come first. "It is really easy for guys in their 20s to climax, but not for
girls'. Frater says. Letting her come first will make sex better for both of you and keep her coming back for more.
4. Experiment with positions. "Missionary was good for the missionaries, and that's about it." Lastique says. Trying different positions may produce some awkward moments, but it could also produce some great sex.
5. Don't be afraid to experiment with toys. The toys shouldn't be thought of as a replacement, but as an enhancer. The body can't always reach every spot, so a toy can really take things to the next level.
6. Use words in bed. Be comfortable talking about what you like and how you like it done.
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