thehiddenpleasureempireThe Biological Basis of Stress Reaction
According to biology, the body’s stress response is a spike in the hormones cortisol and adrenaline that happens when it encounters danger. at the very least, what your body considers to be a threat. While we were escaping from predators or other physical dangers in the early history of humans, this was very important for survival.
The same reaction to a situation that is always stressful can have a disastrous effect on your health and sex life. New pressures are constantly being introduced to us in today’s society. Despite the fact that a monster isn’t chasing us, we still worry about being late for work or school, behavioral disagreements with family or coworkers, deadlines, and exposure to unpleasant news headlines and social media messages…
We go through a stress response when our bodies are subjected to stimuli that “trigger” our nervous system.
What are anxiety and stress?
The body’s response to any change that necessitates a modification or response in order to sustain normal function is stress. As something changes, the body may respond physically, emotionally, or mentally1.
Feelings of anxiety, nervousness, or unease over something having an unclear result are sometimes referred to as anxiety. The most prevalent mental health condition is anxiety, which most people will experience at some point in their lives2.
Stress is typically a result of your circumstances, and it is typically momentary (like an upcoming project deadline, exams, a new baby on the way, relationship struggles, or retirement). On the other hand, anxiety encompasses more than just being stressed, anxious, or worried. When the initial reason for stress or anxiety has passed, anxiety is the continued feeling of stress or worry (like ongoing health anxiety which may be especially common right now, financial anxiety, and social anxiety).
Your Sexual Drive and Stress
When our nervous system is continually activated to react to everyday stimuli, it remains in that state. Our bodies are literally set into “survival mode,” where they work to keep us alive. “Fight, flight, or freeze” is how people usually refer to this.
The relationship between stress and reduced libido is thus only imaginable. Stress can elevate our blood pressure and heart rate, mess with our hormone levels, and make us feel more tense and anxious. Energy is redirected by our body toward vital physical processes. Stress and anxiety can also lead to difficulty focusing, sleeplessness, and racing thoughts. Even without these additional factors, it may be challenging to even want to have sex. Since the brain is the largest sex organ, it is much more difficult for the brain to focus on pleasure, arousal, or orgasm if it is feeling overloaded or distracted by stressors.
Can sex help you relax?
Does having sex reduce anxiety and stress? Yes!
The irony is that while intimacy and sex can be effective stress relievers, stress can also reduce libido. Endorphins and serotonin, two joyful hormones, are produced in large quantities during sexual activity. It has been proved that physical contact and social interaction are good for mental health. And to top it off, having sex is a physical activity, which might increase energy.
Sex and Anxiety
Wait, what? You mentioned a connection between sex drive and anxiety. True!
Can arousal result from anxiety? Yes, also!
Due of the therapeutic benefits of sex and orgasms, anxiety and stress might occasionally make you crave sex. Because your body is aware that sex can give you a quick rush of hormones and pleasure to take your mind off your worries, stress and heightened sex drive may possibly be associated.
If you find that you actually have more desire at a stressful time, don’t feel bad about it; lean into it! Sex helps relieve tension. It is possible to use intimacy and orgasms as natural stress relievers. When it comes to distractions, they can be helpful resources as long as they don’t negatively impact your daily life.
Can Sex Reduce Anxiety?
Try working with your spouse if stress and anxiety are causing you to have low libido. Together, discuss giving other forms of contact and pleasure a higher priority. Some ideas include cuddling, hugs, preparing your favorite food, playing a game, or going for a stroll. Be kind and understanding to one another; libido swings are quite normal. It doesn’t help to judge your partner or yourself for it.
Some people may struggle with anxious thoughts that keep them from concentrating on sex. When you feel like you’re just going through the motions or losing focus during sex, it may be time to spice things up and speak up. To get back on track, refocus on intimacy with some kissing or hugging.
Methods to Reduce Stress
Keep your cool, (Stand your ground).
Even though you might want to, you can’t accomplish it all, at least not without incurring costs. You may better control your to-do list and your stress by developing the ability to say no or by being willing to delegate.
It may appear simple to say yes in order to maintain harmony, avoid confrontation, and finish what’s at hand. The fact that your needs and those of your family are put aside, however, may actually cause you internal pressure. This can result in stress, anger, resentment, and even the desire to wreak retribution. And that’s not a very collected and serene response.
Get enough rest/Sleep.
You may have problems falling asleep due to stress. Your ability to sleep can deteriorate if you have too much to do and think about. But, while you sleep, your body and brain are refreshed.
Also, the caliber and quantity of sleep you obtain might have an impact on your mood, level of energy, attention, and general functioning. If you struggle to fall asleep, make sure you follow a regular schedule, listen to peaceful music before bed, and put your clocks away.
Take care of yourself.
Your stress levels might be lowered if you make time for self-care. Practical illustrations include:
preparing a healthy lunch, taking a bath with candles, reading a good book, and going for a walk outside
A diffuser with relaxing scents, stretching before bed, receiving a massage, engaging in a pastime
yoga practice Self-care is linked to reduced levels of stress and better quality of life, according to studies, while neglecting one’s needs increases the likelihood of stress and burnout.
To lead a healthy life, it is imperative to give yourself some time. This is important for those who frequently experience high levels of stress, such as nurses, doctors, teachers, and caregivers.
Self-care doesn’t need to be complicated or elaborate. It simply refers to taking care of your happiness and well-being.
It may be very relaxing to be exposed to particular aromas through candles or essential oils. These are some calming aromas:
lavender srose svetiver sbergamot
Roman chamomile neroli sandalwood frankincense
geranium orange bloom or ylang-ylang orange
Aromatherapy is the practice of using smells to improve mood. that aromatherapy can help people sleep better and feel less anxious.
join in a yoga class
Yoga has gained popularity as a form of exercise and stress reduction for people of all ages.
While there are many different types of yoga, they all aim to bring the body and the mind together through raising body and breath mindfulness.
Yoga has been shown in numerous studies to aid with stress management and the signs of anxiety and depression. Moreover, it may help to maintain psychological health (These advantages appear to be connected to its impact on your neurological system and stress reaction).
Yoga may increase levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that is low in patients with mood disorders, and lower cortisol levels, blood pressure, and heart rate.
Eat a balanced diet.
Maintaining a nutritious diet is an essential aspect of self-care. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other healthy foods.
Stay away from bad habits
Some people may relieve their stress by smoking, eating excessively, drinking too much alcohol or coffee, or taking illegal drugs. Your health may be affected by these actions.
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