Does having more sex make you happier? You’d think the answer would be a straight up yes. Studies and surveys have shown that it’s not always the case. There’s a magic spot in the amount of sex to happiness ratio, and you might be surprised by the answer.
It’s common knowledge that sex is good for you. It boosts your immune system as well as lowers your blood pressure. Having regular sex also decreases your risk of getting prostate cancer. Of course it also helps decrease stress and improves your sleep. With all of these benefits in mind, surely having more sex will equal more happiness?
What’s the magic number
Studies have shown that having sex once week gives you the optimal amount of happiness. It’s surprising that it’s not simple “have sex everyday”. However that figure is quite large, with studios also showing that the average American has sex around 2-3 times a month. This goes for people who are in relationships or single.
The theory as to why only once a week is the sweet spot, is that if you have sex too frequently, it becomes less special. You can become desensitised and sex then becomes mundane.
The key is intimacy
Does having more sex make you happier? Yes. But more effective than simply increasing the amount of sex you have, look into increasing the amount of intimacy you receive. Sex releases all sorts of good things into your brain that makes you happy in the short term. It’s intimacy however that will release the stuff that makes you feel good in the long term.
Simple things like cuddling goes a long way. Hold hands with your partner, try to kiss them every chance you get. Laughing with them and generally being close will improve your mood as well as your sex life.
There’s so many ways that being more intimate and cuddly with your partner can help your health. The sex feels better because you have a stronger bond. It sounds cliched but there is a difference between having sex and making love.
Of course you don’t need to make love every time. A one night stand isn’t a bad thing. But looking into the long term, put effort into your relationships. It’s good to understand that sex isn’t the most important aspect, and that there’s lots of ways to make yourself happier with your partner. Date nights, movie nights, massages… get creative!