Yahoo Lifestyle 
Here's why sex can help you sleep better
If getting enough sleep is something you struggle with, could it be linked to your sex life (or lack thereof)?
Researchers at WHOOP, an American wearable technology company, have revealed some in-depth details on how sexual activity plays a role in your sleep quality, your physiology, and your emotional wellbeing.
The comprehensive global report uncovered some significant findings between the sheets.
Sleep Latency and Sex
Sleep latency is essentially how quickly you can fall asleep and when people are engaging in sex that includes an orgasm, they're reporting that their sleep latencies are shorter than usual.
Male and female members also record similar amounts of sex in the journal (men 21.7 percent, women 21.5 percent).
And age is no barrier, it seems!
The 20-29 age range records the most sex at 23.1 percent, which is only 10 percent more than the next closest group - 60+ year olds with 21.2 percent.
Though masturbation drops sharply with age, with 60+ year olds reporting 28 percent less masturbation than 20-29 year olds.
Kristen Holmes, VP of Performance Science and Research at WHOOP, tells Yahoo Lifestyle there is a physiological basis for why sex with orgasm might improve sleep.
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“In both men and women, the orgasm signals the parasympathetic nervous system to start down-regulating (or calming) the body and inhibits the release of cortisol (stress hormone)," Kristen tells us.
"The prefrontal cortex, which was previously activated leading up to orgasm, also becomes down-regulated – and this is linked to increased levels of oxytocin, prolactin and serotonin.”
Kirsten also says the combination of these chemicals leads to good mood, relaxation, and feelings of attachment and often make us feel drowsy.
“We know that feelings of relaxation and satisfaction are linked to reduced sleep onset and less fragmented sleep,” she explains.
Sleep after Sexy Time
Kristen says we don’t know exactly how much more quality sleep one can expect after sex compared to solo sleeping, but a study of 778 people found that both men and women perceive that they fall asleep quicker and sleep better after orgasm with a partner, or alone.
The study also found that 64% of respondents indicated they slept better when sex was with a partner and involved an orgasm.
Sleep without Sex Still Beneficial
If you’re single or simply “not in the mood”, Kristen says you needn’t miss out on great sleep.
“Overall, sex can be an indicator of a healthy primary relationship and we know that healthy relationships can reduce stress (critical for a good night’s sleep!).
"Although, no study has yet proven a cause-and-effect relationship between good sex and sleep, there seems to be a beneficial system at work here - a sort of virtuous cycle of sex and health reinforcing one another.
Some other ways to help fall asleep quickly include developing a consistent bedtime routine that works for you, like gentle yoga or reading, and optimising your sleeping environment by making it cool, comfortable and dark.”
The 15th annual World Sleep Day is Friday, March 18. The slogan and theme for World Sleep Day 2022 is 'Quality Sleep, Sound Mind, Happy World'. Read more stories here.
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