How to boost your libido
YOU may have used the booster juices being sold on the streets, taken the supplements advertised, or tried the blue pill, but did you know that there were simple ways to boost your libido?
Sex therapist Dr Sidney McGill said emotional and physical health are key factors in this initiative.
“Exercise, especially aerobic exercise which should improve one’s cardiovascular health and increase endorphins in the bloodstream, is very effective in increasing one’s libido over time,” Dr McGill said.
Barring any underlying medical conditions, here are some other ways:
Talk dirty
The sex therapist said the use of sexy language more in your conversations with your partner will increase the sex drive. “Send racy texts or voicemails to increase expectations for sexual activity and to let your partner feel more wanted. You should hopefully get your texts reciprocated,” Dr McGill said.
Show more affection
Dr McGill said it is important to hug more often for longer periods while learning to “melt” into your partner’s body. He also encouraged couples to be more conscious or mindful of their partners’ needs.
Use your senses more
“Smell, hear, feel and see more about your partner,” Dr McGill said.
Eat slower
According to Dr McGill, you should eat your meals more thoroughly and slowly. “Note the food’s texture, aroma and taste as well as how it makes you feel. You will notice a lot more and enjoy a lot more [which will help you in the bedroom],” he said.
Reduce stress
Obstetrician-gynaecologist Dr Ryan Halsall said this is always key in addressing any health and lifestyle related issue. “Mental stress can impair physical activity and sex drive. Women in particular are affected by stress as it relates to their sex drive,” he said.
Know aphrodisiacs
According to Dr Halsall, several foods have been named over the years as capable of increasing sexual desire and boosting performance. “Now, while medically these claims haven’t all been supported, there’s no harm in giving them a try. Chocolate, bananas and avocados are a few readily available foods that can be used. Chocolate actually has chemicals that boost your mood as well as sexual desire,” he said.
Herbal remedies
“Some supplements claim to be ‘nature’s Viagra’. Yohimbine in particular has claimed to be able to help men get and maintain erections,” Dr Halsall said.
Alcohol
Dr Halsall said alcohol, especially wine, has been shown to help people relax and by extension improve their sexual desire. But he cautioned against consuming too much as it can also impair one’s sexual function.
–KH
