It is well known that in a committed relationship, sex is a wonderful way for partners to be both physically and emotionally connected. Research has found that healthy sex in a relationship increases the amount of affection felt by partners. This increased affection creates more intimacy and in turn can lead to more healthy sex! New research has found that sex is not only good for your relationship, but there are physical health benefits of sex as well.  Here’s how staying healthy in the sheets, can keep you healthy in life:

Sex keeps your heart healthy.

We all know that cardio is good for your physical health when it increases your heart rate. The same goes for sex. In some of the recent research it has been discovered that this benefit continues throughout life and into older age. The research article referenced earlier highlights the cardiovascular benefits of sex in seniors.

Sex can help you relax.

When sex reaches orgasm or includes foreplay such as full body massages, it can help people who struggle with stress or anxiety. This helps them relax. Engaging in these activities with your partner in a healthy and trusting environment can provide you the same benefits that yoga or meditation often do. These things slow your heart rate down, increase your breathing, and decrease the stress hormones in your blood system.

Sex releases endorphins.

You may have heard of endorphins before. Endorphins are the body’s own pain relieving compound. The Arthritis Foundation found that regular sex can even help manage the pain of arthritis. There are not only physical health benefits of sex and endorphins, there are actually mental health benefits as well. Endorphins have been found to work in similar ways to an antidepressant.

Sex increases your immune system.

One of the most clear physical health benefits of sex is the boost in immune system. Research conducted at the Wilkes-Barre University  found that when comparing those who have sex less than once a week, those who engage in sex once or twice weekly are actually less likely to catch a cold.

There are many reasons to enjoy sex with a partner who is committed and you feel safe with and trust. And now you know all the physical health benefits of sex as well!

Which of these physical health benefits of sex is the most exciting for you?