Your Body on Intimacy

Cuddling, kissing, holding hands, sex, hugging… however you get a dose of intimacy and connection, there is a stream of goodness that pulses through your body.

What happens when you cuddle… or more? There is a wealth of information and research showing just that, from stress reduction to increased libido, physically connecting with someone can make you a happier and healthier person.

Mood Boosting Magic:

Oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, oh my! These hormones are activated by touch, so the more you cuddle the happier you are.

Oxytocin, known as the “happy hormone” or “love hormone” not only makes your happier, it also has shown to help you have more trust and empathy as well. Paul Zak, PhD, a researcher at Claremont Graduate University says “The higher your oxytocin, the higher your happiness and well-being”.

Stronger Immune System:

Regular sex boosts your immunoglobulin A (an infection-fighting protein and the body’s first lines of defense against viruses). Having sex once to twice a week can increased patients immunoglobulin A by 30% compared to patients who had little to no sex.

Hugs have also proven to increase immunity. A study showed that patients receiving support and more hugs when inoculated with a virus had a dramatically lower chance of developing infection and showed less severe signs of illness. More hugs, more better.

Less Stress, Less Anxiety:

Those "happy hormones", specifically oxytocin, decrease stress and anxiety. One study shows that just holding hands with your partner can decreases stress. Another study shows that sex and masturbation can support you in responding to stress, as more of those happy hormones being released, the more at ease you can be.

Libido Boost

Dopamine is the excitatory hormone that increases your sexual desire. As one of the many “happy hormones” that rush into the body from touch and excitement, the dopamine will boost your desire for more intimacy. So, the more you cuddle and play around, the more you will desire your partner.

So, do yourself a favor and snuggle up with your partner, or grab whatever toy you need. Get a little cuddly and let your body feel the benefits of intimacy.

If you want to take some time out of your busy life for your relationship and invite in more intimacy and connection, check out my private couples Intimacy Adventures in Aspen this summer.

Get Adventurous. Get Intimate. Stoke YOUR fire.

With Love -