How Sex Helps Your Health

Easing depression and stress

2011-10-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

Bass says this is pretty definite. “The release from orgasm does much to calm people. It helps with sleep, and that is whether we talk about solo sex or sex with a partner,” she says.

But wait, there’s more. A recent study of college students at the State University of New York in Albany suggests that semen acts as an antidepressant. Females in the study who were having sex without condoms (see safe sex caution, above) had fewer signs of depression than women who used condoms or abstained from sex.
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“These data are consistent with the possibility that semen may antagonize depressive symptoms,” the authors wrote, “and evidence which shows that the vagina absorbs a number of components of semen that can be detected in the bloodstream within a few hours of administration.”

I kid you not, ladies. Semen is good stuff. It gives a shot of zinc, calcium, potassium, fructose, proteins -- a veritable cornucopia of vitality!

Not just good, but good for you

2011-10-04T07:47:00.000-07:00

To paraphrase a great old slogan for Guinness beer: Sex isn’t just good, it’s good for you!

Okay, so maybe there’s some wishful thinking going on — the science isn’t exactly iron-clad — but evidence is accumulating that the more sex you have, the better off you are.

There is one caveat, though. “We do not have good data to show a direct connection [to all-around good health]," says Jennifer Bass, the head of information services at the Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction in Bloomington, Ind. "We know that healthier people have more sexual activity. But we do not know which comes first. Does the good health make you more willing to have sex, or does the sex have a positive impact?”

And you dirty girrrls and Don Juans should know that the assumed health benefits of sex are generally thought to accrue to people in loving, monogamous relationships or those flying solo. Risky sex with lots of partners will probably do more harm than good.

But while researchers try to nail down the impact on overall health, data is mounting when it comes to some specifics. Here are several potential benefits:

Reproductive health benefits.

2009-11-10T04:44:00.002-08:00

According to at least one study, sex appears to decrease a man’s risk of prostate cancer, and the prevention of endometriosis in women. It also promotes fertility in women by regulating menstrual patterns.

In a nutshell, the health benefits of sex in a good, solid relationship are practically endless. Yet, in planning our New Year’s resolutions, how many of us are declaring, “I think I’ll have more sex with my lover” in fulfilling any 2008 health and self-improvement goals?

While exercise on a regular basis is important to your health, sex can do so much more for you and your relationship. So before signing any dotted line for a new gym membership, consider how time allotted to an athletic club could be far more effective in your boudoir.

You can get a lot more bang for your buck in the bedroom, double your “membership” benefits, and, with sex breeding the desire for more sex, thanks to a boost in testosterone, it’s a workout plan you’re likelier to stick to.

Decreased risk of breast cancer.

2009-11-10T04:44:00.001-08:00

One study of women who had never given birth found that an increased frequency of sexual intercourse was correlated with a decrease in the incidence of breast cancer.

Longevity.

2009-11-10T04:43:00.001-08:00

There is a significant relationship between frequency of orgasm and risk of death, especially with men. Men who orgasm two times a week have a 50 percent lower chance of mortality than those who climax one time per month. The bonus: Living longer also gives you and your honey the opportunity for even more lovin’!

Mood lifter.

2009-11-10T04:42:00.000-08:00

Sex releases pleasure-inducing endorphins during arousal and climax that can relieve depression and anxiety, and increase vibrancy.

A better, younger looking you.

2009-11-10T04:41:00.002-08:00

Sex keeps you looking and feeling younger and, according to some research, may lead to shiny hair, a glowing complexion and bright eyes. This is because it increases the youth-promoting hormone DHEA (dehydroepiandrostone). And feeling more attractive charges your sex life even more.

Sleep enhancement.

2009-11-10T04:41:00.001-08:00

There’s no need to count sheep when sex, including masturbation, helps insomnia. Plus, making love sure beats tossing and turning your way to zzzz’s.

Increased self-esteem and intimacy.

2009-11-10T04:40:00.001-08:00

When sex is consistent and involves mutual pleasure, it can increase bonding since the surge in oxytocin at orgasm stimulates feelings of affection, intimacy, and closeness. When spiritual in nature, sex can lead to an even better quality of life and stronger relationship. Is it any wonder that good sexual energy in a positive relationship can make you feel better about yourself, your partner, and life in general?

Better heart health

2009-11-10T04:38:00.001-08:00

A little bit of heart and soul in the sack should be part of every doctor’s orders when it comes to cardiovascular care. Sex may help lower cholesterol and the risk of heart attack.

Immune booster.

2009-11-10T04:37:00.002-08:00

Stop spending late nights at the office. Sex wards off colds and the flu. And sexually active people take fewer sick days, giving the phrase “working late” an entirely new meaning. Bosses, take note.

Stress relief.

2009-11-10T04:37:00.001-08:00

Sex, even if only with ourselves, impacts the way we respond to stress, increasing levels of oxytocin and stimulating feelings of warmth and relaxation. What better way to unwind from a tough day than sharing its most climactic moment with your special someone?

Pain management

2009-11-10T04:36:00.001-08:00

Forgo popping a pain killer and opt for something a bit more “au naturel.” Sex has been shown to offer migraine and menstrual cramp relief, as well as alleviate chronic back pain thanks to the endorphins and corticosteroids released during sexual arousal and orgasm.

Weight loss and weight control

2009-11-10T04:35:00.001-08:00

Forget torturing yourself with the latest fad diet or hours on the elliptical machine when you can burn about 200 calories in 30 minutes of sex! Lovemaking lends itself to improved strength, flexibility, muscle tone, and cardiovascular conditioning. Plus, there’s something super sexy about getting to sleep with your very own “personal trainer.”

Sex – it does the body good.

2009-11-10T04:34:00.002-08:00

Yet most of us are quicker to hit the gym before hitting the sheets when it comes to taking care of ourselves. Believe it or not, huffing and puffing your way through a hot, sweat-inducing sex session may be far more beneficial to your overall health than the time you spend on the treadmill.

As research confirms time and time again, good sex in a healthy, stable, monogamous relationship can only better our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well being. Sex, in this context, offers us tons of benefits, most of which aren’t touted nearly enough.

Here are just a few benefits:

Sex Reduces Pain

2009-11-10T04:34:00.001-08:00

As levels of the hormone oxytocin increases, endorphins increase, and pain declines. In women, sex also prompts production of estrogen, which can reduce the pain of PMS.

Sex Improves Intimacy

2009-11-10T04:33:00.001-08:00

Having sex and orgasms increases levels of the hormone oxytocin, the so-called love hormone, which helps us bond and build trust. Higher oxytocin has also been linked with a feeling of generosity. So if you're feeling suddenly more generous toward your partner than usual, credit the love hormone.

Sex Keeps you Young

2009-11-10T04:32:00.000-08:00

Sex keeps you looking and feeling younger. Research alco indicates that sex may lead to shiny hair, a glowing complexion and bright eyes. This is because sex increases the youth-promoting hormone DHEA.

Sex Increases Blood Flow

2009-11-10T04:31:00.002-08:00

When we are aroused our blood starts pumps at a quicker rate and, thus, blood flow to our brain increases. The fresh supply of blood pumping through your body provides the organs with a healthy dose of oxygen and rids the body of old and wasteful products.

Sex Burns Calories

2009-11-10T04:31:00.001-08:00

Thirty minutes of sex burns 85 calories or more. It may not sound like much, but it adds up. A vigorous bout burns some 200 calories. This is about the same as running 15 minutes on a treadmill or playing a spirited game of squash. Muscular contractions during intercourse work the pelvis, thighs, buttocks, arms, neck and thorax. Sex also boosts production of testosterone, which leads to stronger bones and muscles.

Sex Boosts Immunity

2009-11-10T04:30:00.001-08:00

Having sex once or twice a week has been linked with higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A or IgA. This antibody helps protect you from getting colds and other infections.

Great health benefits of sex

2009-11-10T04:29:00.000-08:00

Studies show that one of the biggest health benefit of sex is lower blood pressure and overall stress reduction.

It Promotes Regular Menstrual Cycles.

2009-11-10T04:26:00.000-08:00

A series of studies by behavioral endocrinologist Winnifred Cutler and colleagues at Columbia and Stanford universities found that women who have intercourse at least weekly (except during their period) cycle more regularly than abstainers or the sporadically active. (Related research found that lesbian lovemaking also smoothes out menstrual cycles.) Cutler argues that intimacy is essential, not orgasms: "Regular exposure to a loving partner has extraordinary effects on health and well-being."

Yes, Honey, I Have a Headache

2009-11-10T04:25:00.000-08:00

For a woman a migraine might actually be a reason for making love rather than avoiding intercourse: the increase in endorphins and corticosteroids during arousal and orgasm is analgesic.

It Burns Calories

2009-11-10T04:24:00.002-08:00

A little over four calories a minute, or the equivalent of four Hershey's kisses in a half hour of love. Think of it as part of your weekly exercise regime, and burn, baby, burn.

It's a Beauty Treatment

2009-11-10T04:24:00.001-08:00

In a study at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital in Scotland, a panel of judges viewed participants through a one-way mirror and guessed their ages. Those who looked seven to 12 years younger than their age (labeled "superyoung") were also enjoying lots of sex—four times a week, on average. OK, maybe they were having so much fun because they looked young. But it's likely the sex was helping, researchers say. One reason is that it raises a woman's estrogen level, which helps make hair shiny and skin supple.

It Fights Colds and Flu

2009-11-10T04:23:00.001-08:00

Sexual intercourse once or twice a week raises the body's level of the immune-boosting antibody immunoglobin A by a third, according to research at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania.

Six Reasons to Have Sex Every Week

2009-11-10T04:22:00.000-08:00

Sex is good for adults. Indulging on a regular basis—at least once a week—is even better. Research links sex (with all safer-sex precautions taken) to an astonishing array of physiological benefits, from longevity to pain relief. Many studies don't address whether the health bonus comes from the act itself or from the corresponding emotional intimacy, but the bottom line is that getting physical has some great side effects—especially for women. Here are six ways that sex boosts your health:

Immunity booster

2009-11-10T04:20:00.000-08:00

Sex can also boost general health by stimulating the immune system. A study carried out in Pennsylvania, for example, showed that sexually active university students produced more of the bacteria-fighting antigen IgA than those who didn't have any sex.

Scientists have speculated that this could be because sexually active people are potentially exposed to more infections, so their immune systems are primed to deal with them.

Quality, not quantity, seems to be important, however: people who had very frequent sex had lower IgA levels than those who had no sex at all.

This, according to Dr Carl Charnetski, who carried out the study, could be because people who were having very frequent sex might have been in relationships that were causing stress, which can make IgA levels drop.

The association between health and the nature of sex is perhaps backed up by a Japanese study in which 19 out of 42 people who had had a stroke during sex were being unfaithful at the time.

Sex fights illness

2009-11-10T04:19:00.000-08:00

When, for example, scientists studied around 2400 men in Caerphilly, Wales, over a 10-year period, it found that those who had more orgasms were 50 per cent less likely to have died.

This lowering of risk was particularly marked when it came to heart attacks, leading scientists to endorse the idea that sex can be excellent exercise.

Another way in which sex shows its disease-fighting qualities is in the role it appears to have in protecting against prostate cancer.

Studies have shown that frequent ejaculations appear to reduce the risk of this type of cancer, which affects around 20,000 men in Britain every year.

Research carried out in Boston looked at 30,000 men aged between 46 and 81. It found that a higher number of ejaculations was linked with a decreased risk of cancer of up to 33 per cent.

This follows a smaller Australian study that appeared to show that men who masturbated frequently in earlier life were a third less likely to develop prostate cancer when they got older.

This phenomenon has been attributed to the theory that orgasm reduces the development of calcifications in the prostate that have been linked with cancer.

Immunity booster

2009-02-20T23:28:00.000-08:00

Tips to maintain a healthy sex life later in life:

2009-02-20T22:56:00.001-08:00

Communicate with your partner. Open discussion of sex has become much more common in the last 40 years, but many older adults come from a generation where sex remains a taboo subject. But openly talking about your needs, desires and concerns with your partner can make you closer and help you both enjoy sex and intimacy more.
Talk to your doctor. Talking about sexual issues with your doctor can help you maintain a healthy sex life as you get older. Your doctor can help you manage chronic conditions and medications that affect your sex life. Many older men have trouble maintaining an erection or reaching orgasm. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medications or other treatments for these problems.
Expand your definition of sex. Intercourse is only one way to have fulfilling sex. Touching, kissing and other intimate sexual contact may be just as rewarding for both you and your partner. Realize that as you age, it is normal for you and your partner to have different sexual abilities and needs. Be open to finding new ways to enjoy sexual contact and intimacy.
Change your routine. Simple changes can improve your sex life. Change the time of day when you have sex to a time when you have the most energy. Try the morning — when you're refreshed from a good night's sleep — rather than at the end of a long day. Because it might take longer for you or your partner to become aroused, take more time to set the stage for romance, such as a romantic dinner or an evening of dancing. Try a new sexual position or explore other new ways of connecting romantically and sexually.
Seek a partner if you're single. It is never too late for romance. It can be difficult starting a relationship after the loss of a spouse or being single for a long time — but socializing is well worth the effort for many single seniors. No one ever outgrows the need for emotional closeness and intimate love. If you start a relationship with a new partner, be sure to practice safe sex. Many older adults are unaware that they are still at risk of sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS.
Stay healthy. Eating regular nutritious meals, staying active, not drinking too much alcohol, and not smoking or using illegal drugs are important for your overall health — and it can help your sexual performance. Follow your doctor's instructions in taking medications and managing any chronic health conditions.
Stay positive. The changes that come with aging — from health problems to changes in appearance and sexual performance — leave many men feeling less attractive or feeling they are less capable of enjoying or giving sexual pleasure. Discussing your feelings with your partner can help. Feeling angry, unhappy or depressed has a strong impact on your sex life. Professional counseling or other treatment can improve your sex life — and your well-being.

Sex fights illness

2009-02-20T22:30:00.000-08:00

Dealing With An Unwanted Pregnancy

2008-04-19T21:41:00.000-07:00

An unplanned and unwanted pregnancy can dramatically affect an otherwise loving long-term relationship. Some men rejoice, but others simply aren’t ready to be fathers. If they discussed the possibility and specifics at the start of the relationship, he may hope she’s going to stick to the original plan and terminate the pregnancy. And she might -- but for some women, getting pregnant can start clocks ticking and make them suddenly want to be mothers, despite previous agreements.

In either case, the final decision is hers, which means she has ultimate say in whether or not you become a father. This can put tremendous stress on a relationship, particularly if don’t want to have a child, but don’t want to lose the girl, either. While you can’t force her to do your bidding, you can get her to consider your wants and desires if you approach her correctly. After all, your life could be drastically altered by her decision, which certainly entitles you to speak your mind -- you just need to take care with the presentation.

Are you a good kisser

2008-04-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

My friend Sean thought his date went well—she laughed at his jokes, ordered dessert, and even asked him up to her apartment for a midnight make-out session. But it’s been over a week and she hasn’t returned his calls. Sean’s starting to wonder why. Little does he know, the answer’s in his kiss. I should know. I made the mistake of kissing him once.

Plenty of people worry about whether they’re good in bed, but few worry about their skills when it comes to their triple-tongue-swirl maneuvers. So people like Sean are often left questioning what went wrong on a date, even though the reason is quite literally under their noses. Sadly, no one wants to tell anyone they have the kiss of death, which means that unless you’ve been praised for your soft lips or tantalizing tongue, someone might be cringing about your not-so-sensual smooches as well. Here’s a cheat sheet of oral offenses, so you can avoid being thought of as a cringe-worthy kisser.

The Vampire Lip-Sucker
When my date Andrew first started biting and sucking on my lower lip, I tried to redirect the kiss by going for his upper lip. But when he kept doing it and my lip began to throb, I pulled away with a not-so subtle, “Ow.” He didn’t take the hint and with each tug, my lip grew rawer. The next day, at a family barbecue, everyone wondered why I had a purple lower lip.

Sure, a soft bite on the lip can be a turn on, but 10 in a row can leave your date looking like she got punched in the mouth. The first sign of a bad kisser is the inability to respond to feedback (sorry, Andrew; it’s true). If you’re not getting a positive response, don’t be afraid to stray from a move that you thought worked on someone else. Bad kissers often make the mistake of hoping you’ll grow to like whatever weird thing they’re doing. This almost never works and almost always leaves your lover bemoaning your inexperience.

The Right Time For Sex

2008-04-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

So you met someone new, and the sexual tension is getting unbearable. When should you do the deed? Well, there’s no hard-and-fast rule, but perhaps these stories from other women like you will help you decide:

Check for crazy tendencies
“I’m a traditional person at heart and I like to wait about three months. I’ve always heard the saying, ‘If you see crazy coming, cross the street.’ I don’t think you can see if she’s crazy until you know her a little bit longer. There have been a few times when I’ve dated someone short-term, and the relationship didn’t pan out. It’s probably because as time passed, I saw that maybe she was a little on the crazy side.”
1. Trust your gut
2. Look before you leap
3. Expect the unexpected
4. Friends first
5. Make it worth the wait
6. Sleep together first

Because I Love You

2008-04-17T05:26:00.000-07:00

I forget where I found the following, but it has motivated me to try to apply these wonderful principles in my own relationships. It is so difficult at times to love as God loves! “Because I love you” is a great preface to all our actions and words. May God bless us and help us to remember this!

1 Corinthians 13 as motivational statements:

*I am patient with you because I love you and want to forgive you.

*I am kind to you because I love you and want to help you.

*I do not envy your possessions or gifts because I love you and want you to have the best.

*I do not boast about my attainments because I love you and want to hear about yours.

*I am not proud because I love you and want to esteem you before myself.

*I am not rude because I love you and care about your feelings.

*I am not self seeking because I love you and want to meet your needs.

*I am not easily angered by you because I love you and want to overlook your offenses.

*I do not keep a record of your wrongs because I love you and love covers a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)

Love covers it all!

Expressing Love Should Be Natural

2008-04-17T05:03:00.000-07:00

I looked in her eyes and I knew that she was in love with me. Her eyes told me that. I had asked him to meet me at five pm,

and he was there at three thirty. I knew what was happening. His movements and his heartbeat told me all.

How to Have a Good Fight

2008-04-17T01:32:00.000-07:00

Every couple fights at some point. How you handle those conflicts will have a huge effect on your marriage. You can improve your marriage relationship by learning how to have good fights!
How couples resolve marital conflicts in their marriage is crucial in maintaining a healthy relationship. A good channel of communication and an effort to understand and accept each other is the key.

family life speaker couple Greg and Shelley Leith join Dr. Dave Currie in this episode of Marriage Uncensored to share their insights on how to successfully resolve marital conflicts. Don't miss out on how you can improve your marriage relationship by learning how to have good fights!

Unlocking the Secret to Love

2008-04-17T01:23:00.000-07:00

"A fulfilling love life. How can I have one? How can I get the most out of sex?" University students worldwide ask these questions. Why? Because both pleasure and emotional fulfillment are important facets of sex.

Sex is often on our minds. According to two psychologists at the universities of Vermont and South Carolina, 95% of people think about sex at least once each day.{1} You might wonder, "You mean that 5% of the people don't?"

One way not to have a dynamic sex life is to concentrate solely on technique. There is certainly nothing wrong with learning sexual technique--especially the basics--but technique by itself is not the answer.

A good relationship is important for good sex. Psychiatrist and bestselling author Anthony Pietropinto and coauthor Jacqueline Simenauer write, "When emotional issues involving anger or a need to control are encountered on the road to sexual fulfillment, the journey is interrupted until these conflicts are resolved."{2}

Many sex therapists agree that great technique does not guarantee great sex. They emphasize that the qualities that contribute to a successful sex life are the same ones that contribute to a successful interpersonal relationship. Qualities like love, commitment and communication.

Things Women Love To Hear

2008-04-16T20:40:00.000-07:00

In some ways, women are a bit like Labradors: if you say the right things in an appropriate tone of voice, they’ll do what you want. Alternately, women also have the potential to be like caged lions, and if you piss them off and are dumb enough to stand around, they’ll rip your head off. For that reason, we want to highlight some of the things that women love to hear and show you how certain phrases can consistently be used to score major points. Of course, the last thing we want to do here is spew out a list of platitudes that every guy knows women never get sick of hearing. Instead, we'd like to suggest some alternative phrases and the reasons why they are so effective.

These are not pickup lines; they’re phrases meant to be used on a girl you already know. Perhaps you’ve been dating and you want to take things to the next level. Or maybe it’s even a long-term girlfriend and you’ve been going through a rough patch. You might even be a bit worried that she’s losing interest and is starting to look around for something else. Whatever the case, the following is meant to give you an idea of different ways to verbally press her buttons by saying things women love to hear.

Generally, the things women love to hear can be placed into four categories: compliments about her appearance, words confirming your commitment to a future together, verbal displays of territorialism/jealousy, and questions that demonstrate an interest in her life.

She Probably Wants You To Ask Her Out.

2008-04-13T20:48:00.000-07:00

There are literally billions of single women out there at the moment. Go ahead, add them up. Billions. Have you ever wasted time, money and oxygen on one that you never even had a chance with? Of course you didn’t realize it at the time, but yeah, you probably have. And the really annoying thing is that all the clues were right there in front of you, but you didn’t acknowledge them because you were so focused on the prize.

Well, you never need to make that mistake again, because we’re here to spell out the top 10 signs she’s not interested in you. Sure, it’s a hard thing to accept, but you’ll be much better off if you can spot these signs early on. You’ll also need to consider that these signs may come to you at any stage of the courtship: the day you ask her out, on thefirst date or perhaps even a few dates in. When any one of these signs she’s not interested do creep up, it should be your cue to move along and set your sights on one of the other billion girls out there.

She's Interested In You

2008-04-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

She has all the right moves
A lot of people say that bodies can't lie. Nature has programmed humans with a complex set of non-verbal flirting signals that just flow freely when people are interested in someone. These range from the widening of the iris when looking at the object of desire to more overt displays such as smiling or touching.

Here are a few body-language cues to watch out for:

She points in your direction with her leg, foot or shoulders.
She leans toward you while talking.
She plays with or tosses her hair.
She fidgets with a piece of jewelry (like an earring) or strokes the stem of her glass.
She keeps her eyes locked on you while she talks or drinks.
She mirrors your body movements (for example, if you put your hand on the table, she quickly does the same).
She smiling when you check her out.

If you become aware of a cluster of these signals, you can almost be sure that she's giving you the green light for romance.

Who says size counts

2008-04-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

How many times were you made fun of because your penis looked "shrunk"? Were you one of those guys who wouldn't shower after gym class because of embarrassment? You don't have to worry. Women don't care.

Who says size counts? A few months ago I was speaking with a friend who told me about one of her encounters with this wonderful lover. She described what they did in detail, and all this time I was wondering how big is this horse that my friend is sexing? Well guess what? He wasn't hung like a horse. As a matter of fact, he was more like a pony. This guy may not have had a big penis, but he certainly knew how to use his magic wand to please her and make her want him.

Women who feel that they aren't pretty or sexy enough because they have small breasts are like men who think that having big penises make them more manly and better lovers. The truth is that these men lack self-esteem and their self-worth is placed into their penises. Sure any woman would like to have a big thick bar to play with and suck on. It's like guys who are obsessed with big breasts.

Women simply don't care about size. There will be the odd ones who say it is very important, but they are usually the ones who love aggressive sex. For women, penises are marvelous toys, and no matter what they look like, they will excite women. Women do talk about their men's penises...often. But most of the time, the focus isn't on size; we focus more on what you did with it. In all honestly, we will spend more time talking about whether you wash yourself and smell good, rather than what it looks like.

Does Size Matter To Women?

2008-04-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

Men love their penises. From the time he is born, a man's penis becomes his best friend . He will love it, fondle it, get mad at it(especially when it stops working), respect it, listen to its opinion, and get in trouble for it.

Men are obsessed with their penises, even if they don't realize it. Most men live in constant fear that their manhood is not big enough. What they don't realize is that a recent study, involving 800 men of all shapes, races, and sizes, concluded that the average penis size is 5.5 inches .

So that's the size of an average penis. What's that sound? It's men all over the world breathing a sigh of relief. Now that this revelation has surfaced, let's get down to business.

Sex Records

2008-04-12T12:20:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what other people get up to in their spare time? Why, competing in world sex records, of course. Here are some of the top guys and gals showing the rest of us how it can be done, should we care to try. There are also a selection of the weird and wonderful body parts and acts that have befallen our fellow men and women, and we've listed them all in our list of unusual sex records.

Variety Is The Spice of SEX Life

2008-04-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Perhaps your sex life has become routine. Boredom is an industrial-strength sexual desire dampener. Even the most highly sexed person can begin to feel ho-hum about sex if it's always the same old thing. If this rings true of your sexual relationship, it might be time for you to try to spice things up a bit. You need to be creative to avoid sexual boredom. Try a new location, rent a hotel room, experiment with new positions, buy new lingerie, rent a sexy video, try a hot bath, candles and a massage. Cast your inhibitions to the wind.

Kellie complained that she was losing desire because she was having trouble feeling aroused. It took her considerably longer to have an orgasm, and when she did, it wasn't as strong as orgasms had been in the past. She found herself feeling more and more disinterested each time her husband approached her. She wondered if it was because of her age -- she was 52 -- and whether she should consider taking hormone supplements.

Kellie was menopausal, and it was entirely possible that biological causes were at the root of her sexual difficulties and lack of desire. However, I also wondered about the quality of her sexual relationship with her husband. Kellie confessed to feeling bored. Their lovemaking had become routine and unexciting. Because her mind would drift during their sexual encounters, she found it challenging to maintain feelings of arousal.

The Do-It-Yourself Solution

2008-04-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

No matter how much your spouse loves you or wants to please you, s/he might never have the same sex drive as you. Therefore, it's unreasonable for you to expect your spouse to be at your beck and call every time you feel sexual. You need to take responsibility for satisfying your own needs from time to time. In all likelihood, you are already doing this, and you don't need me to tell you to do it. However, you might be feeling resentful about it, and that's not fair. Although it is my hope that your spouse will invest more energy into your sexual relationship, there will still be times when you're ready to roll and s/he isn't. That's normal, and you need to accept it. As long as your spouse is making more of an effort to understand and care for you and your needs, you need to work harder at accepting your differences. And part of this acceptance entails taking care of yourself occasionally and feeling fine about it. This will be easier for you to do once you truly feel your spouse cares about you and your feelings. And hopefully, if that isn't happening already, it will, very soon.

Sex life vests

2008-04-05T09:38:00.000-07:00

There's no getting around it; sex is a vital part of most marriages. So what happens when one or more parties lose interest -- or never had it to begin with? Research says these unions are more likely to fail. (After money, sex is the number one reason couples divorce.) However, it doesn't have to get that far. In her book The Sex-Starved Marriage, Michele Weiner Davis suggests three strategies for improving your sex life and preserving your relationship.

Strategies To Revive Your Sex Life

2008-04-05T04:42:00.000-07:00

Sexually Satisfied

2008-03-21T03:28:00.000-07:00

If you desire to add a little spice to the bedroom you should not fear taking a few steps to be sexually bold. Your partner will prefer you speak your mind when it concerns sex as long as you do so in a respectful yet light-hearted manner. Doing so increases your chances of a healthy and mutually satisfying relationship.

Step 1:
Ask your partner if they are willing to experiment with new techniques in your love life. If you want to be sexually bold you have to start with a solid basis of communication.

Step 2:
Be playful and have a good sense of humor when discussing sex with your partner. It's okay if you feel a little uncomfortable as you first broach the subject.

Step 3:
Include romance in your effort to be sexually bold. Everyone likes to feel as though they are being appreciated for what it is they are agreeing to do.

Step 4:
Talk about your sexual experiences together after you've stepped away from the bedroom. Be willing to listen to one another and make adjustments to suit you and your partner's comfort level.

Step 5:
Keep trying new things together in order to keep your love life exciting and dynamic. If you want to be sexually bold you'll need to show a little creativity.

Step 6:
Remember that to be sexually bold, a lot more is required than mere bedsmanship. The psychological and emotional surroundings are just as important in an effort to establish a fulfilling experience.

How to look Decent while u r naked

2008-03-21T03:23:00.000-07:00

Understanding Your Partner's Sexuality

2008-03-21T03:06:00.000-07:00

Sexual expression plays a huge role in relationships. It is way for people to show their lovers what they feel about them through passionate and intimate ways. As wonderful as sexuality can be, it is often misunderstood, which is why the average couple faces sexual conflicts and challenges at some point during their relationship. This is no way is a generalization of men and women, but the truth is, men and women handle their sexuality differently - on an average.

If couples spend some time to truly learn and understand their partner's sexuality, they can build a happier and healthier sex life together, instead of facing the conflicts that stall their relationship from blossoming further.

The ABCs of Great Sex

2008-03-21T02:49:00.000-07:00

A - Accept and appreciate your partner for who they are. Avoid doing the same thing over and over. Great sex should be an adventure! Aromatic fragrances are acceptable in the bedroom.

B - Believe in your ability to satisfy your partner, then do it. Savor, wallow and bask in the bliss of coming together.

C - Be Considerate of your partner's needs. Stop when they say, "No!"

D - Disappear ocassionaly. It's okay to occasionally want to be alone while in a relationship. Daydream about your next sexcapade together and watch desire build. Try an afternoon delight!

E - Enjoy something different for a change of pace. It's exciting and envigorating. Explicit and energetic exploits empower the sexual experience. Hold your partner in a loving embrace at least once each day.

F - Forgive your partner when things go wrong. Not forgiving shows up in the bedroom. Always strive to fulfill your lover's desires. Asking, "Wanna fool around?" is a great question.

G - Generosity. Always give more than you take. Guys, always make sure your partner comes first (if you know what I mean). Pleasure her with gusto.

H - Share the housework. Nowhere is it written that housework should be only and always a woman's job. (And the women all say, "Amen!"). Being hedonistic in the boudoir keeps love alive!

I - Investigate new ways of making love. It pumps new excitement into the relationship and keeps it fresh. Inovate! Be creative.

J - Just do it. Do what, you say? Hmmmmm. If you have to ask, click here!

K - Passionately kissing your lover is often the magic connection to great sex.

L - Love. Tell your partner you love them. . . often. Say it aloud. Say it while making love. Do things that help them know you do. Lusting after your lover is a good thing.

M - Masturbate and let your partner watch. It's okay to take care of yourself when you are alone too.

N - Never do anything sexually that you and your partner cannot agree upon. NEVER!

O - Oral sex creates excitement. Open your eyes. Watch what is going on in your relationship. Handle it with care.

P - Practice does not make you perfect, it only makes you better. Be prepared for your next tumble in the hay; have candles, lubricants, sex toys, condoms, etc., handy. Passionately whisper words of love while making love. Pleasure and passion are the keywords.

Q - Quit being shy. Ask for what you want. Your partner cannot read your mind. Quietly basking in the "afterglow;" tenderly only holding each other can express Love far deeper than can words.

R - Respect your partner. Mutual respect in your relationship is an absolute necessity for it to grow. Read and study sexual techniques. Get racy, rank, risque and raunchy every once in awhile. Relish the moment!

S - Sexuality & spirituality go together. Making love is the highest spiritual connection you can make with each other. Stimulate your lover. Slow down. Snuggle. Take your time. Savor the moment. Soft seductive sounds - music, soft moans, etc., - can add some spice to your most passionate moments.

T - Trust is the foundation of a healthy love relationship. Without it there can be no effective communication. Without communication there can be no genuine intimacy.

U - Understand what your partner needs sexually. Ask, then do and do it unwaveringly.

V - Visualize making love to your partner before you do. See what you would like to have happen. Vary the velocity of your strokes, fondling, caressing, licking and touching; vigorous, then gentle, vigorous, then gentle!

W - Keep a watchful eye on your relationship outside of the bedroom. You will see that it makes a BIG difference as to what goes on "in" the bedroom.

X - Xcite your lover with the unexpected. Xcellerate, then slow down. Watch an x-rated movie together.

Y - Yield to the moment while making love. Surrender. Say, "yes" to Love!

Z - Zest for adventure in the relationship. Zero in on pleasure with geniune zeal.

Regular Sex Provides A Host of Surprising Health Benefits

2008-03-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

Sex Burns Calories

2008-03-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

A little over four calories a minute, or the equivalent of four Hershey's kisses in a half hour of love. Think of it as part of your weekly exercise regime, and burn, baby, burn.
Sexual intercourse once or twice a week raises the body's level of the immune-boosting antibody immunoglobin A by a third, according to research at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania.

Sex Promotes Regular Menstrual Cycles

2008-03-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

A series of studies by behavioral endocrinologist colleagues at Columbia and Stanford universities found that women who have intercourse at least weekly (except during their period) cycle more regularly than abstainers or the sporadically active. (Related research found that lesbian lovemaking also smoothes out menstrual cycles.) Cutler argues that intimacy is essential, not orgasms: "Regular exposure to a loving partner has extraordinary effects on health and well-being."

Sex Your Way to Better Health

2008-03-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

Weight loss and weight control. Forget torturing yourself with the latest fad diet or hours on the elliptical machine when you can burn about 200 calories in 30 minutes of sex! Lovemaking lends itself to improved strength, flexibility, muscle tone, and cardiovascular conditioning. Plus, there’s something super sexy about getting to sleep with your very own “personal trainer.”

Pain management. Forgo popping a pain killer and opt for something a bit more “au naturel.” Sex has been shown to offer migraine and menstrual cramp relief, as well as alleviate chronic back pain thanks to the endorphins and corticosteroids released during sexual arousal and orgasm.

— Stress relief. Sex, even if only with ourselves, impacts the way we respond to stress, increasing levels of oxytocin and stimulating feelings of warmth and relaxation. What better way to unwind from a tough day than sharing its most climactic moment with your special someone?

— Immune booster. Stop spending late nights at the office. Sex wards off colds and the flu. And sexually active people take fewer sick days, giving the phrase “working late” an entirely new meaning. Bosses, take note.

— Better heart health. A little bit of heart and soul in the sack should be part of every doctor’s orders when it comes to cardiovascular care. Sex may help lower cholesterol and the risk of heart attack.

— Increased self-esteem and intimacy. When sex is consistent and involves mutual pleasure, it can increase bonding since the surge in oxytocin at orgasm stimulates feelings of affection, intimacy, and closeness. When spiritual in nature, sex can lead to an even better quality of life and stronger relationship. Is it any wonder that good sexual energy in a positive relationship can make you feel better about yourself, your partner, and life in general?

— Sleep enhancement. There’s no need to count sheep when sex, including masturbation, helps insomnia. Plus, making love sure beats tossing and turning your way to zzzz’s.

— A better, younger looking you. Sex keeps you looking and feeling younger and, according to some research, may lead to shiny hair, a glowing complexion and bright eyes. This is because it increases the youth-promoting hormone DHEA (dehydroepiandrostone). And feeling more attractive charges your sex life even more.

— Mood lifter. Sex releases pleasure-inducing endorphins during arousal and climax that can relieve depression and anxiety, and increase vibrancy.

— Longevity. There is a significant relationship between frequency of orgasm and risk of death, especially with men. Men who orgasm two times a week have a 50 percent lower chance of mortality than those who climax one time per month. The bonus: Living longer also gives you and your honey the opportunity for even more lovin’!

— Decreased risk of breast cancer. One study of women who had never given birth found that an increased frequency of sexual intercourse was correlated with a decrease in the incidence of breast cancer.

— Reproductive health benefits. According to at least one study, sex appears to decrease a man’s risk of prostate cancer, and the prevention of endometriosis in women. It also promotes fertility in women by regulating menstrual patterns.

Sex – it does the body good.

2008-03-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

Increased Blood Flow

2008-03-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

Sex helps increase the blood flow to your brain and to all other organs of your body. Increased heart rate and deep breathing accounts for the improvement in circulation.

As fresh blood supply arrives, your cells, organs and muscles are saturated with fresh oxygen and hormones, and as the used blood is removed, you also remove waste products that cause fatigue and even illness

Maintaining Ideal Body Weight

2008-03-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

There are 3500 calories in a pound of fat. For every 3500 calories you burn (that you do not replace with food!) you will lose one pound of fat.

Sexual intercourse burns approximately 150 calories per half hour. Here’s how that stacks up against some other activities that may be part of your fitness regime: yoga 114 calories per half hour, dancing - rock 129, walking - 3mph 153, weight training 153, canoeing - 2mph 153, volleyball 174.

According to one survey reported by the Ottawa Citizen, Canadians on average have sex 7.33 times per month, lasting approximately 24.4 minutes. That means that “Joe Canada” is burning off more than 10 thousand calories a year, or about 3 pounds, in a not particularly active sex life.

Considering that people put weight on gradually, slowly gaining 5-10 pounds per year until they are overweight, it’s not unrealistic to assume that regular sexual activity is one way to help maintain a healthy body weight.

Sex is Good for your Health

2008-03-12T10:31:00.000-07:00

Lose weight. Reduce stress. Lower your cholesterol level. Improve your circulation. Live longer. Stay younger.

Sounds like an ad for a new wonder drug right? In fact it’s a partial list of the benefits of humanity’s oldest and most pleasurable pastime - sex.

People in recovery from alcoholism, addiction or codependency may benefit from this discussion and be able to recognize the benefits as they emerge from drunk or drugged sexual life.

Most of us are aware of the feel-good benefits of sex while we’re engaged in it, but do you also know that there are benefits which carry on after the sweaty bodies have dried and the sweet talk has reverted to sports? For instance:

Real-life male talk

2008-03-08T20:47:00.000-08:00

'When my girlfriend's on top, she sometimes does this extra-special move: instead of moving up and down, she does a figure-of-eight swivel with her hips. It really works for me.'

'I met this Croatian girl last year who kept a bottle of vodka in the freezer. When we had sex, she'd drink some, then lick my nipples and my neck, lightly blowing on the area afterwards. Amazing.'

'I love it when a girl stimulates me with her hands while she's standing behind me. Not being able to see her makes it feel naughty, plus it rids her of any inhibitions.'

'There's nothing better than having a girl wrap her legs around you, locking her ankles together. That way she's got leverage to push back at you with every thrust.'

'I just love it when a girl keeps some of her clothes on during sex - skirt, shirt or, better still, boots or stilettos. It makes it feel illicit - and so arousing.'

Fire up your foreplay

2008-03-08T20:29:00.000-08:00

Don't be too gentle when you're giving him a helping hand. Although you must never bend an erect penis (it can break), you do need to apply a fair amount of force when masturbating him - particularly when he's about to come. If you're still in doubt, try masturbating in front of each other - you'll both be turned on and will get to see how it's done.
Men do love the sensation of their penis deep inside your throat. Why? Because there are so many more nerve endings at the penis tip and, when it rubs on the back of your throat, it feels great. So, to get more of him inside you, try doing it with him standing and you kneeling so your chin is raised, elongating your throat.

Men love when women are more aggressive and wild in bed

2008-03-07T09:14:00.000-08:00

Mind-blowing moves: Putting a little muscle into your sexual MO is as much about attitude as it is technique. So from the very start, you need to make sure your man knows who's boss. Set off the action with a must-have-you-now lip-lock: Push your lips into his and grab a bunch of his hair and pull as you're playing tonsil hockey. "The scalp is loaded with nerve endings, so tugging on his hair releases feel-good endorphins," explains Resnick. "Instead of causing him pain, it will actually feel pleasurable to him." Then proceed to treat your guy to a rough massage as you knead, rub and trail your nails over every inch of his bod...and don't be afraid to use a little force. "Men's skin tends to be thicker than women's, so they can often handle -- and want -- more pressure," says sex expert Laura Corn, author of The Great American Sex Diet.

That tough-love technique applies to his manhood as well (only his shaft though; his testicles demand more delicate attention). "Most women assume that men's genitals are as sensitive as their own," says Resnick. "But many men actually prefer a firm grip when they're being manually stimulated." With that in mind, ask him to let you know just how rough he wants you to get the next time you're heading south for some lusty manhandling.

Once you've worked him into a frenzy, grab his wrists and bind them together with a scarf, hop on top and have your way with him. Another rough, raunchy move: Tell your guy that you want him to take you from behind. But don't make him do all the work. Move your pelvis back and forth in sync with his thrusts, so your bodies are slapping against each other when they make contact.

How Can You Get Your Wife To Like Foreplay

2008-03-06T18:50:00.000-08:00

To get your wife to like foreplay, you first need to know how to give her good foreplay. There must be some reasons behind why your wife does not like to go into extensive foreplay.

Foreplay build anticipation and is important if you want to enjoy the having sex with your wife. Therefore, you should try your best to make your wife likes foreplay. Now, to get your wife to like foreplay, you will need to do the following:

1. Find out the reasons. Have a heart-to-heart talk with her and find out the reasons behind her not wanting to have foreplay. Once you have known the reasons, you will be able to solve the problem.

2. Emphasize how important foreplay is. Emphasize all the benefits that foreplay can contribute to the sex life for both of you. With good foreplay, she will be able to achieve better orgasms. You can also prolong the whole sexual session with her and help her to achieve as many orgasms as she can.

3. Get her to give it a try. There is no harm trying foreplay, it can only brings benefits. Persuade her to give it a try, before she decides on anything. Make sure that you are prepared to execute a good foreplay to please her.

4. Master your foreplay techniques. Once she has decided to give it a try, you must not disappoint her. In most cases, she will be more passive, and you will need to take the lead during foreplay. Therefore, you must surprise her with all your new techniques and skills during foreplay to stand a chance to make her like it. I will not touch on the different techniques of foreplay here, you can check out my other articles for more information.

5. Be creative during foreplay. Women love surprise, and I believe that your wife is one of them. By introducing some fun and exciting sex games to relax her before sex, you may be able to enjoy a much better foreplay later on.

Foreplay is important, and I cannot stress this enough to you. Try your best to make her like it, and your sex life with your wife will definitely improve dramatically.

5 Amazing Sex Tricks Every Woman Should Know

2008-03-05T21:59:00.000-08:00

Married sex? It's great. You're attuned to each other's bodies, and you know exactly what makes your partner weak. (In fact, you've done it thousands of times.) And that's why the usual rev-up-your-sex-life tricks -- satin sheets, slinky lingerie, scented massage oils -- aren't wildly relevant for you.

Okay. But somewhere deep in your heart maybe you do miss that first-time excitement. And getting it back is much, much easier than you might think. "Small tweaks will do it," says Sandra Scantling, Psy.D., a sex therapist in Hartford, Connecticut, and author of Ordinary Women, Extraordinary Sex. "By altering one movement or thought, by looking for tiny differences in taste, touch, sound or smell, we can refresh the familiar and revitalize our sex lives."

We've got some suggestions here. Some of them may seem a bit odd; some may seem too tiny to matter. But none of them requires years of study in the tantric arts or even batteries. And all of them have the potential to rock your happily married world.

Is Sex Necessary?

2008-03-05T09:10:00.000-08:00

Fans of abstinence had better be sitting down. "Saving yourself" before the big game, the big business deal, the big hoedown or the big bakeoff may indeed confer some moral benefit. But corporeally it does absolutely zip. There's no evidence it sharpens your competitive edge. The best that modern science can say for sexual abstinence is that it's harmless when practiced in moderation. Having regular and enthusiastic sex, by contrast, confers a host of measurable physiological advantages, be you male or female. (This assumes that you are engaging in sex without contracting a sexually transmitted disease.)
In one of the most credible studies correlating overall health with sexual frequency, Queens University in Belfast tracked the mortality of about 1,000 middle-aged men over the course of a decade. The study was designed to compare persons of comparable circumstances, age and health. Its findings, published in 1997 in the British Medical Journal, were that men who reported the highest frequency of orgasm enjoyed a death rate half that of the laggards. Other studies (some rigorous, some less so) purport to show that having sex even a few times a week has an associative or causal relationship with the following:

- Improved sense of smell: After sex, production of the hormone prolactin surges. This in turn causes stem cells in the brain to develop new neurons in the brain's olfactory bulb, its smell center.

- Reduced risk of heart disease: In a 2001 follow-on to the Queens University study mentioned above, researchers focused on cardiovascular health. Their finding? That by having sex three or more times a week, men reduced their risk of heart attack or stroke by half. In reporting these results, the co-author of the study, Shah Ebrahim, Ph.D., displayed the well-loved British gift for understatement: "The relationship found between frequency of sexual intercourse and mortality is of considerable public interest."

- Weight loss, overall fitness: Sex, if nothing else, is exercise. A vigorous bout burns some 200 calories--about the same as running 15 minutes on a treadmill or playing a spirited game of squash. The pulse rate, in a person aroused, rises from about 70 beats per minute to 150, the same as that of an athlete putting forth maximum effort. British researchers have determined that the equivalent of six Big Macs can be worked off by having sex three times a week for a year. Muscular contractions during intercourse work the pelvis, thighs, buttocks, arms, neck and thorax. Sex also boosts production of testosterone, which leads to stronger bones and muscles. Men's Health magazine has gone so far as to call the bed the single greatest piece of exercise equipment ever invented.

- Reduced depression: Such was the implication of a 2002 study of 293 women. American psychologist Gordon Gallup reported that sexually active participants whose male partners did not use condoms were less subject to depression than those whose partners did. One theory of causality: Prostoglandin, a hormone found only in semen, may be absorbed in the female genital tract, thus modulating female hormones.

- Pain-relief: Immediately before orgasm, levels of the hormone oxytocin surge to five times their normal level. This in turn releases endorphins, which alleviate the pain of everything from headache to arthritis to even migraine. In women, sex also prompts production of estrogen, which can reduce the pain of PMS.

- Less-frequent colds and flu: Wilkes University in Pennsylvania says individuals who have sex once or twice a week show 30% higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A, which is known to boost the immune system.

- Better bladder control: Heard of Kegel exercises? You do them, whether you know it or not, every time you stem your flow of urine. The same set of muscles is worked during sex.

- Better teeth: Seminal plasma contains zinc, calcium and other minerals shown to retard tooth decay. Since this is a family Web site, we will omit discussion of the mineral delivery system. Suffice it to say that it could be a far richer, more complex and more satisfying experience than squeezing a tube of Crest--even Tartar Control Crest. Researchers have noted, parenthetically, that sexual etiquette usually demands the brushing of one's teeth before and/or after intimacy, which, by itself, would help promote better oral hygiene.

- A happier prostate? Some urologists believe they see a relationship between infrequency of ejaculation and cancer of the prostate. The causal argument goes like this: To produce seminal fluid, the prostate and the seminal vesicles take such substances from the blood as zinc, citric acid and potassium, then concentrate them up to 600 times. Any carcinogens present in the blood likewise would be concentrated. Rather than have concentrated carcinogens hanging around causing trouble, it's better to evict them. Regular old sex could do the job. But if the flushing of the prostate were your only objective, masturbation might be a better way to go, especially for the non-monogamous male. Having sex with multiple partners can, all by itself, raise a man's risk of cancer by up to 40%. That's because he runs an increased risk of contracting sexual infections. So, if you want the all the purported benefits of flushing with none of the attendant risk, go digital. A study recently published by the British Journal of Urology International asserts that men in their 20s can reduce by a third their chance of getting prostate cancer by ejaculating more than five times a week.

Low sex hormone 'increases depression'

2008-03-05T08:54:00.000-08:00

Low testosterone puts older men at significant risk of depression, according to an Australian study which recommends those with abnormal levels consider getting injections of the sex hormone.

A study of almost 4000 elderly men has drawn the strongest link ever between low testosterone and mood.

Researchers at the University of Western Australia tracked levels of both in men aged 70-plus and found those with the lowest testosterone were three times more likely to suffer depression than those with the highest levels.

This was true irrespective of a man's physical health, a finding researchers say is important because bad health is known to increase the risk of depression and decrease hormone levels.

"Even when you take this into account, the association between low testosterone and depression is still strong," said Professor Osvaldo Almeida, lead author of the paper published in the US journal Archives of General Psychiatry.

"This is the most compelling case we have for the link yet."

Professor Almeida said the science behind the link was not yet fully understood.

But it might be that low hormones somehow trigger changes in the levels of neurotransmitters or hormones in the brain.

He said the evidence was now strong enough to support testosterone replacement therapy in depressed older men.

But only the 20% of men over 70 who have abnormally low testosterone, so-called hypogonadism, will likely benefit.

"We propose clinicians check their depressed older patients for hypogonadism, and if they have it then I think there is good rationale for considering using testosterone replacement to improve mood," Professsor Almeida said.

"This would be a totally new way of dealing with these men because currently they get nothing."

He said the benefits of giving hormone replacement needed to be proven in a randomised controlled trial before the therapy should be offered at a subsidised rate.

Testosterone replacement is most infamous for illegally boosting athletic performance, but an increasing number of older men are accessing the controversial treatment to build muscle mass and treat bone loss through osteoporosis.

Gay Marriage Good For Mass. Business Community

2008-03-05T08:45:00.000-08:00

Massachusetts has a reputation for losing talented workers to less pricey markets, reports the Boston Business Journal. But a trend that runs counter to the talent drain has emerged in the state's same-sex marriage law -- a powerful lure for same-sex couples who want to live in a place where they can get married, gain legal rights and have access to spousal health benefits.

"There was a lot of psychological and physical energy that I was investing in just living my day-to-day life, because I had to defend myself against anti-gay sentiment and rhetoric," said Lisa Forest, who with her wife, Anne Marie Willer, had good jobs and owned their home in the Dallas area. But in 2006 the couple left Texas for Massachusetts.

"[We] were taking too large of financial and legal risks remaining there as strangers, legally," Forest told the Journal.

Local observers see the influx of same-sex couples as a boon for the state's economy.

"Since the marriage law passed, we see a lot more (gay) professionals moving into the Boston area," said Henry Hoey, a board member of the Greater Boston Business Council, a chamber of commerce for gay professionals, told the Journal. The organization's membership has increased 5 percent to 1,100 members since last year. "The effects of this law are starting to take hold."

Inclusive Recruitment, a Boston-based staffing firm that places gay professionals in welcoming workplaces, has noticed an increase in same-sex couples who have moved or are planning to move to the state.

"There's a woman that I'm working with right now because she came to Massachusetts so her marriage would be recognized," said the company's founder and CEO, Martha Livingston.

The state's same-sex marriage law provides businesses with a unique competitive edge, notes the Boston-based Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders.

"Massachusetts has a reputation for fairness both generally and in the specifics that it offers gay and lesbian couples, especially those with children who are concerned about raising their kids in a place that supports their family and protects their legal rights," Carissa Cunningham, director of public affairs at GLAD, told the paper.

Exercises to Improve Your Sex Life

2008-03-05T08:42:00.000-08:00

Sex. It can ignite our senses, fill us with ripples of pleasure and awaken a new dimension of feeling for our partner. Lovemaking doesn't require extraordinary skill, nor is it limited to young couples in the throes of passion. Couples of all ages can cultivate sexual bliss for the duration of their lives together.

So what's the trick? One of the most important and often overlooked components of a rewarding sex life is exercise. Regular exercise can pique sexual desire and make sex more enjoyable.

Good Sex Is a Good Thing
Though definitions vary, "good sex" might be thought of as an act of intimacy that promotes health and well-being. Good sex provides significant physical and physiological benefits. Enjoyed in the context of a happy relationship, "sex boosts chemicals in the body that protect against disease," says Paul Pearsall, Ph.D., author of the book "Superimmunity."

Research also suggests that sex and masturbation can help ease joint and muscle pain, combat depression, promote heart health and lengthen life span.

All too often, however, we haven't the time or energy for sex. According to the Masters and Johnson Institute, at least a third of American couples experience a lack of sexual desire. After a stressful day at work, it's easy to neglect the ultimate celebration of human pleasure.

There are ways to ensure that lovemaking remains a passionate, intense and regular part of our repertoire no matter what our age or how busy our lifestyle.

Sex By Schedule

2008-03-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

This is a story about love cycles, which are not silly things moonstruck couples ride on the boardwalk of hotels They are rhythms that link your sexual behavior to your hormones.

And Winnifred B. Cutler, Ph.D., found them. She discovered that regular sex is good for you. It orchestrates a woman's body biologically, regulating the flow of hormones that make it fertile and increase well-being. It also props up testosterone levels in men.

The time to embrace is once a week. Weekly intercourse--but not less frequently-- tunes the menstrual cycle to 29.5 days, optimal for fertility and general endocrine health.

Here's the tricky part: For Cutler, the findings mandate monogamy. Only committed relationships allow sex so regularly. If regular sex is not possible, then it's better to abstain altogether, because intermittent sex drives hormones wild, sending estrogen to lower lows (and higher highs) than the more moderate lows of celibacy, Cutler claims in a report, Love Cycles, the Science of intimacy. (Lows are responsible for bone loss, depression, heart disease.)

Banish the thought that you can keep yourself hormonally humming by your own hand. It isn't the orgasm but the presence of another person, preferably male, that does the trick. Males add pheromones: The odors fire off nerve signals to the brain and alter endocrine patterns.

Riding the cycles of love is definitely an indoor sport.

Short sex the best - experts

2008-03-05T08:12:00.000-08:00

THE best sex should last between seven and 13 minutes, and even three-minute sex is "adequate", a major survey of US experts has concluded.

But Australian sex therapists commenting on the new research say most men Down Under wanted it to last considerably longer while most women were "not bothered" if it was over with fast.

The sex study is the first to review what the experts believe is the ideal length of time to have penetrative sex, with the random sample of Americans and Canadians labelling seven to 13 minutes most "desirable".

Intercourse lasting between three and seven minutes was deemed "adequate", but anything less was "too short" and beyond 13 minutes was "too long".

The study, published today in the international Journal of Sexual Medicine, is designed help calm couples' unrealistic beliefs that healthy sex should last a long time.

US studies show Americans expect penetrative sex to last between 15 and 20 minutes, even though sel- reports indicate it is over in less than half this time.

Lead researcher Dr Eric Corty, from the Behrend College in Erie, Pennsylvania, said this was a situation "ripe for disappointment and dissatisfaction".

"In the fantasy model of male sexuality, men have large penises, rock-hard erections, and can sustain sexual activity all night long," Dr Corty wrote.

"It appears that many men and women hold this fantasy. The results from the present study, by providing a realistic not a fantasy model of sexuality, are useful both in treating people with sexual concerns and dysfunctions, and, with wider circulation, in preventing the onset of sexual dysfunctions."

Dr Jane Howard, a Brisbane-based medical sex therapist, said there was a dearth of data on Australians' expectation of sex.

Anecdotal evidence suggested most Australian women would be happy with the therapists' "adequate" time of three to seven minutes, while men would not.

"There is a major gender difference in this area," Dr Howard said.

"Usually women are quite happy with short intercourse, and are not bothered about prolonging it at all, but nearly all men want it to be much, much longer."

She said it was important not to obsess over the length of intercourse, with time often suspended during the act anyway.

"I mean really, who's counting?" the expert said.

Exercises to Improve Your Sex Life

2008-03-05T04:12:00.000-08:00

So what's the trick? One of the most important and often overlooked components of a rewarding sex life is exercise. Regular exercise can pique sexual desire and make sex more enjoyable.

Research also suggests that sex and masturbation can help ease joint and muscle pain, combat depression, promote heart health and lengthen life span.

There are ways to ensure that lovemaking remains a passionate, intense and regular part of our repertoire no matter what our age or how busy our lifestyle.

Sex does the body good

2008-03-05T04:09:00.000-08:00

The best that modern science can say for abstinence is that it's harmless when practiced in moderation. "Saving yourself" before the big game, the big business deal, the big hoe-down or the big bakeoff may indeed confer some moral advantage; but physiologically it does zip.

Having regular and enthusiastic sex, by contrast, confers a host of measurable physiological advantages, be you male or female. (This assumes that you are engaging in sex without contracting a sexually transmitted disease.)

In one of the most credible studies correlating overall health with sexual frequency, Queens University in Belfast tracked the mortality of about 1,000 middle-aged men over the course of a decade. The study was designed to compare people of similar age and health. Its findings, published in 1997 in the British Medical Journal, were that men who reported the highest frequency of orgasm enjoyed a death rate half that of the laggards. Other studies (some rigorous, some less so) purport to show that having sex even a few times a week has an associative or causal relationship with the following:

Immunity booster

2008-03-05T03:48:00.000-08:00

Scientists have speculated that this could be because sexually active people are potentially exposed to more infections, so their immune systems are primed to deal with them.

Quality, not quantity, seems to be important, however: people who had very frequent sex had lower IgA levels than those who had no sex at all.

This, according to Dr Carl Charnetski, who carried out the study, could be because people who were having very frequent sex might have been in relationships that were causing stress, which can make IgA levels drop.

The association between health and the nature of sex is perhaps backed up by a Japanese study in which 19 out of 42 people who had had a stroke during sex were being unfaithful at the time.