Why Sex Matters

Have you ever heard phrases like ‘sex isn’t that important’? Or come across an idea that “sex is dirty”?

Of course you have. It’s impossible to escape these contradictory claims in a world that both condemns sex and mocks those who abstain from it. This cultural duality plays out daily: a woman in a bikini selling products on TV is considered respectable business, but if she bends over and reveals too much, she’s instantly labeled a slut.

Cultures constantly shift their attitudes toward sex. Look no further than the Internet’s evolution: from its early uncensored days to today’s heavily regulated landscape, where sex-related content faces massive manipulation and censorship. Social media platforms enforce their Terms of Service with such arbitrary rules that users can never predict which innocent post might trigger a suspension.

What drives this love-hate relationship between sex and culture? What are its origins? And how will it evolve in the years ahead? There are no simple explanations or concrete answers. Like sex itself, it’s complicated.

Taboos Started Before In the Beginning

Some blame the Bible for our sexual hang-ups, but that’s too simplistic. While it contains passages condemning sexual behavior, it also offers surprisingly erotic content – just read Song of Solomon. And the Bible’s writers weren’t the first to create sexual doctrines. Every documented civilization, from ancient Egypt onward, has simultaneously celebrated and condemned sex.

Ancient Rome is famous for its lasciviousness by modern standards, yet it also embraced Stoicism, a Greek philosophy that gained prominence with its anti-pleasure stance. Stoics viewed sex as purely animalistic: to achieve higher consciousness, one had to control and suppress these base urges. This philosophy continues to influence our thinking today.

Throughout history, those opposing sexual expression have united behind one common claim: sex isn’t important. They champion ‘traditional’ values – though ‘traditional’ might mean anything from a century-old custom to a 5,000-year-old practice. Family and spiritual beliefs are elevated as humanity’s sacred priorities. But here’s the irony: without sex, there would be no human traditions to uphold. We would simply cease to exist.

Why Sex Matters

Society has a peculiar way of treating human sexuality as a defect. Show too much sensuality and you’re branded a sinner; show too little and you face ridicule as a prude. Even complete chastity draws contradictory reactions – praised by some as virtuous, mocked by others as unnatural.

But sexuality isn’t a flaw to be corrected or merely a feature to be tolerated. For most adults, it’s a fundamental biological drive. More than that, it’s one of humanity’s greatest allies. Through sex, we create children who carry our hopes for the future. It brings joy and fulfillment to our lives. And as thousands of scientific studies have demonstrated, sexual activity contributes significantly to our physical health, well-being, and longevity.

The Top Three Reasons Why Sex is A Friend

Sex and Mental Health

Healthy sexual experiences and mental wellbeing have a profound connection. When sex is consensual and positive, it becomes a powerful force for psychological health. Research has shown that fulfilling sexual experiences can significantly reduce stress levels, combat depressive symptoms, boost confidence, and enhance self-esteem.

Sex between (or among) partners can provide something uniquely precious: genuine intimacy. This profound emotional connection creates a bond and sense of comfort that’s nearly impossible to replicate through any other human experience.

However, it’s crucial to note that negative sexual experiences have the opposite effect. Non-consensual or unwanted sexual encounters can inflict serious psychological harm as the brain responds adversely to these traumatic experiences.

Sex and Physical Health

Scientific research has consistently demonstrated sex’s remarkable rejuvenating effects on the human body. During sexual activity, the brain releases a powerful blend of chemicals – oxytocin, endorphins, and dopamine – creating a natural euphoria that enhances both physical and emotional well-being.

Regular sexual activity offers an impressive array of health benefits. It strengthens the entire circulatory system, enhances cardiovascular health, and helps protect against prostate and breast cancer and other reproductive diseases through its unique biochemical effects. The risk of stroke decreases with regular sexual activity, and the stress-relieving power of orgasms provides natural protection against stress-related illnesses.

Orgasms and Longevity

Research shows that individuals who experience frequent orgasms (approximately three times per week) demonstrate greater physical resilience. They’re effectively harnessing their body’s natural potential by honoring their biological drives. As Dr. Irwin Goldstein, Director of Sexual Medicine at Alvarado Hospital, emphasizes, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the health benefits of regular sexual activity.

The medical community increasingly recognizes that regular sexual activity – whether solo or with a partner – correlates strongly with longevity. This connection makes sense given sex’s proven benefits: enhanced mental health, improved sleep patterns, better reproductive health, and strengthened cardiovascular and respiratory systems. People who embrace their sexuality through regular orgasms tend to maintain better health throughout their lives and show greater vitality in their later years.

Why Sex Matters to Your Quality of Life

Given all the evidence, it’s time to reframe how we think about sex. Rather than viewing it through a moral lens, we should recognize it as a fundamental component of human health. Our bodies come equipped with an extraordinary biological system that can enhance our overall well-being more effectively than any supplement or vitamin regimen could ever achieve.

Sexual expression – whether through intimate partnerships or self-pleasure – isn’t just about momentary satisfaction. It’s about accessing an innate power that can transform our lives. Regular sexual activity and release flood our bodies with natural chemicals that boost immunity, fight disease, enhance mood, and promote longevity. The intimacy we experience through sexual connection creates emotional bonds that strengthen our mental resilience and enrich our relationships.

The science is clear: embracing our sexuality isn’t just natural – it’s vital for optimal health. Instead of feeling shame or uncertainty about sexual desires, we should celebrate this remarkable gift our bodies provide. A healthy sex life isn’t a luxury or an indulgence – it’s a powerful tool for creating a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled existence.

So, now that you know why sex matters, embrace your sexuality. Honor your body’s needs. Celebrate this natural path. Because when it comes to health, few things are as potent or as profound as the power of sex.

image credit: De’Andre Bush @UnSplash.com

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