While many women might think it’s normal for their sexual desire, and sex life overall, to decline as they age, like many other health issues, such as chronic fatigue or insomnia, problems in the bedroom can be an indication of more serious health issues.
Disorders such as type II diabetes, heart disease, stress, and depression and anxiety can all have an effect on sexual health. Some types of medication, including some drugs commonly used to control high blood pressure, have also been shown to have a negative effect on the sexual health of both women and men. Fluctuating or low hormone levels can also be a factor.
If you are experiencing problems getting in the mood, here are some healthy living tips that can help you begin the process of getting your sexual health back on track, no matter what your age.
Pay a Visit to Your Doctor
One of the first things you should do if you are experiencing problems with your sex life is get a check up. Be sure to tell your doctor about the specific problems you are having so that he or she will better be able to rule out certain health problems. A simple blood test can reveal problems with your hormones as well as issues such as type II diabetes and high cholesterol that can impact your sexual, and overall, health. Once you know what problems you are facing, you and your doctor can develop a plan to address them and improve your wellbeing.
You should also discuss any medication you are taking with your doctor. If you are currently taking any medications known to contribute to sexual dysfunction, talk to your doctor about possible alternatives or perhaps decreasing your dosage on a trial basis.
Increase the Amount of Fruits and Vegetables in Your Diet
Good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy life and sex life. Rather than radically changing your diet all at once, start by adding more fruits and vegetables to meals you are already eating. Adding fresh fruit to your regular breakfast or a salad to your lunch or dinner will provide important nutrients that your body needs to function at its best.
Increase the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat each week. To keep things interesting, try shopping at your local farmers market and consider adding fruits and vegetables you have never tried before to your meal plans.
Increase Your Physical Activity
Many people mistakenly believe that getting more exercise means they need to take up running or spend an hour at the gym every day. But this isn’t the case. If you are currently inactive most of the time, the best thing to do is start small. Believe it or not, fitness beginners can derive huge benefits from small amounts of exercise.
Try taking walks around your neighborhood three or four days a week, increasing the distance you walk by just a few yards each day. If the weather won’t allow you to walk outdoors, try walking on the treadmill at the gym, increasing your time by a few minutes each time you go. After a few weeks, you will notice a big difference in your energy level.
Take Steps to Reduce Stress
According to the Bhatia Psychology Group, stress can have an equally negative effect on your sex life and health as poor diet and lack of exercise. Stress can also contribute to health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease and depression. To improve your sexual health, it is important to reduce the amount of stress in your everyday life. A great way to do this is to seek couples counseling or talk to a therapist about how you’re feeling. Professionals will offer stress-reduction tips that change your perception and allow you to better cope in the privacy of your home.
Try to avoid situations and people you find stressful whenever possible. Shop and do errands at times when traffic jams are less likely. Adding meditation and/or yoga to your daily routine has also been shown to reduce stress in many people. Doing activities you enjoy such as reading, working on hobbies or listening to music has also been shown to reduce stress levels.
Talk to Your Partner
Many times, problems couples experience in the bedroom stem from issues in their relationship or fears related to intimacy or body image. Couples who have been together for many years may sometimes feel a lack of sexual desire due to boredom, and the need to spice things up.
To make things more interesting, you can try ordering sex toys online, or talking to each other about your sexual fantasies and desires. Though these things might seem scary at first, over time they will be become easier and your sex life and relationship will be happier and healthier.
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