Libido describes a person's sexual desire or interest in sexual activity. It is a natural and healthy aspect of human sexuality and can vary both from person to person and over time.
Libido is an important aspect of a healthy sex life and overall well-being, and it can affect a person's self-esteem, relationships, and overall quality of life. However, our libido can be influenced by a variety of factors, including hormones, age, medications, and our psychological and emotional state.
Are Libido and Sex Drive the Same?
The terms "libido" and "sex drive" are often used interchangeably to refer to a person's sexual desire or interest in sexual activity. In general, both terms can be used to describe the same thing—the instinctual drive to seek sexual pleasure and fulfilment.
However, some experts prefer to make a distinction between the two terms. For example, some use the term "libido" to refer specifically to a person's overall sexual energy or life force, while "sex drive" can be used to talk about a person’s level of sexual desire or interest at a particular moment in time.
Ultimately, whether you use the term "libido" or "sex drive" to describe your sexual desire is a matter of personal preference. What's important is recognising that sexual desire can vary from person to person and can be influenced by a wide range of factors, such as our age, hormones, medications, stress levels, and relationship dynamics.
7 Tips to Boost Libido
So now we are familiar with the terms, what about the reality? Low libido can be a frustrating and isolating experience, but it's more common than you might think. Statistically, around 30% of women and 15% of men will experience low sexual desire at some point in their lives.
Fortunately, there are many things you can do to increase your libido and improve your sex life. So buckle up, as we’re about to share some key tips and tricks for boosting your sexual desire naturally and ensuring intimacy remains a priority.
1. Exercise Regularly
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to increase libido. If you need convincing, a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that women who exercised regularly experienced higher levels of sexual desire than those who were sedentary. Exercise can also improve blood flow to the genitals, which can enhance sexual sensitivity and pleasure.
In terms of the “why”, most of us know that exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals produced by the body that promote a sense of happiness and well-being. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels, which can be significant contributors to low libido. Endorphins also increase blood flow to the genital area.
Exercise can also help to increase self-confidence and body positivity, and the better we feel within ourselves, the more our desire and sexual confidence can flourish.
2. Try Aphrodisiac Foods
Certain foods are believed to have aphrodisiac properties that can increase sexual desire. For example, oysters are high in zinc, which is important for testosterone production. For those with a sweet tooth, you’ll be pleased to hear that chocolate contains phenylethylamine, a compound that can stimulate the release of endorphins and boost our mood. Other aphrodisiac foods include avocado, figs, and chilli peppers.
Foods that are high in antioxidants and other nutrients can also be beneficial for libido. For example, berries are rich in antioxidants, which help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the body. Nuts and seeds are high in vitamin E, which can help to improve sexual function and fertility.
3. Manage Stress
Stress is a major libido killer. We’ve all been there. When you're stressed, your body produces cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with sexual desire and function. To manage moments of stress, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Taking time to relax and unwind can also help you feel more connected to your partner and enhance intimacy.
It's also important to make time for regular self-care activities that help to reduce your general stress levels. This might include taking a warm bath, practising aromatherapy, or spending time in nature. Anything that helps you to relax and feel more centred can be beneficial for libido.
4. Get Enough Sleep
Aside from stress, not getting enough sleep also takes a toll on your libido. When you're sleep-deprived, your body produces less testosterone, which can affect your sex drive. So it’s best to aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night to support your desire for intimacy.
For some of us, getting those seven hours is easier said than done. If that’s you, it's important to practise good sleep hygiene. This means creating a sleep-conducive environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. It also means avoiding stimulants like caffeine and electronic devices before bedtime, which can interfere with sleep quality.
5. Consider Natural Supplements
There are many natural supplements that are believed to enhance sexual desire and function. For example, maca root has been used for centuries as a natural aphrodisiac. Other supplements that may be helpful for libido include ashwagandha, fenugreek and red Korean ginseng.
For Play chocolates contain gender-specific blends with natural aphrodisiac ingredients to celebrate the unique qualities of each individual and unlock heightened libido, intensified pleasure and improved performance.
6. Communicate with Your Partner
Effective communication is key to a healthy and fulfilling sexual relationship. Communication can help partners understand each other's desires and needs, leading to better sexual experiences and a boost in libido.
- Builds Trust and Intimacy
Effective communication can help build trust and intimacy between partners. When partners feel comfortable discussing their sexual desires and needs, they are more likely to be open and vulnerable with each other. This can lead to a deeper emotional connection and an increase in sexual satisfaction.
- Encourages Exploration and Experimentation
Communication can also encourage exploration and experimentation in the bedroom, leading us outside the routine and into the realm of sexual exploration. When partners are open and honest about their sexual desires, they can try new things and experiment with different positions, techniques, and fantasies. This can help break down barriers and increase sexual excitement and arousal. Partners who communicate effectively are more likely to try new things and have a more adventurous sex life, leading to a boost in libido.
- Helps Address Sexual Issues
Effective communication can also help partners address any bedroom-related issues. When partners feel comfortable discussing problems such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or low libido, they can work together to find solutions. Communication can also help partners to be open about their sexual preferences, leading to better sexual experiences and an increase in sexual satisfaction.
7. Consider Therapy
Finally, sometimes people need a little help, so don’t be shy to ask for it if your intimate life is suffering. Therapy can be an effective way to address underlying psychological factors that may be contributing to low libido. Sexual desire is complex and can be influenced by various things, including stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. By addressing these underlying issues, therapy can help improve libido and overall sexual satisfaction.
Identifying Underlying Psychological Factors
One of the primary ways therapy can help boost libido is by identifying and addressing any underlying psychological issues that may be contributing to low sexual desire. Therapy can help individuals identify and manage the stressors in their lives and develop coping strategies to address them. So never be afraid to ask for help—it might just get your sexual life and mental health back on track.
Addressing Sexual Trauma
Individuals who have experienced sexual trauma may experience difficulties with libido. In these cases, therapy can help individuals address and heal from past trauma, which can lead to improved sexual function and satisfaction. In terms of the specifics, therapists trained in trauma-informed care can help individuals develop coping strategies, process trauma-related emotions, and work towards regaining a sense of safety and control in their sexual experiences.
A Word from For Play
Low libido is a common experience, but it doesn't have to be a permanent one. By making lifestyle changes, prioritising time for intimacy and trying natural remedies, you can boost your libido and improve your sex life.
An easy way to start is to give For Play Couples Chocolates a go. Our chocolates contain gender-specific blends with natural aphrodisiac ingredients that unlock heightened libido, intensified pleasure and improved performance, bringing more spark to your sex life.
