Simple Lifestyle Changes to Improve Your Libido
Is your low sex drive hurting your relationship? One day you’re not feeling it, you’re just not in the mood. The next day...you’re still not feeling it. And then...it’s the same almost every day. This might bother you, it might not, but it’s definitely taking a toll on your relationship. You or your partner is frustrated because you’re not having sex very often and your relationship feels...strained. Good news. There are ways to try to fix this without first running to the doctor’s office for tests and testosterone shots.
First of all, let’s understand why having a low libido can cause strain on the relationship. It’s simple, really. Having low libido or low sex drive equals less sex happening. In romantic relationships, sex is one of the top ways couples feel connected emotionally and physically. And so, without it, the emotional connection is diminished (or at least one partner feels that way). Your union feels less like a romantic relationship and more like a business partnership. Nothing against working partnerships, but obviously this isn’t ideal for married couples who expect more.
So, what can we do about this? First, it’s important to talk it out with your significant other. Most of the time, a problem can be solved through open and honest communication. I won’t go deep into this, but you can check out my other blog post about fixing low libido through communication.
As you work through communicating and building an emotional connection, there are some things you can do physically to help your body build libido. You’ve let your significant other know there’s a problem. Either you or they have low libido and now you both want to work on solving it. Studies have shown that older men with lower libido (or even erectile dysfunction) see big positive results with moderate daily exercise. Moving your body every day and keeping it healthy will help it function in its natural ways, like having sexual desire. Some physical activities can include walking, playing sports, swimming, etc. Bonus points if you can do these with your significant other and have some fun with it. Not only can this increase your libido levels but it can also help you connect deeper with your partner.
Research finds that exercise increases libido more so for men more than women, but women should still be physically active. So, if exercise is better for men, what should women emphasize? Studies show that a healthier diet of greater fruits and vegetables positively impacts libido levels. A diet consisting of whole foods, less processed foods, and less sugar and sodium will improve sexual desire for many women.
Another physical lifestyle factor that can affect men’s and women’s libido levels can be quality of sleep. A lot of research shows that poor quality of sleep is associated with more sexual problems and dissatisfaction. Science shows that when people sleep better, they are more likely to have a higher and healthier sex drive.
We’ve explored a few straightforward lifestyle changes you or your spouse or partner can make to improve libido levels. But don’t limit yourselves to just these suggestions. The world is your oyster and there are plenty of things you can do to bring that aspect of emotional connection back into your relationship. Once that spark is reignited, you will see how your relationship can flourish emotionally and physically. Take action today by starting off with one lifestyle change and explore what works best for your body.