Causes of Low Libido and How to Boost it
Now that the kids are headed back to school, it’s time for Mom and Dad to finally get some time to themselves.
But sometimes when the time comes, you realize that your libido has left the building as well.
Let’s have a look at some of the ways to get back your mojo.
Why Did Your Sex Drive Ride Off Into the Sunset?
1. Stress- Stress is a HUGE libido killer. When our body goes into fight or flight, it prioritizes life-supporting body processes over others. Dealing with your stress goes a long way in the bedroom.
2. Lack of Sleep- Not catching enough zzz’s can leave you feeling lacklustre in many areas of your life, including in the sack. If you’re sleeping for 8 hours a night and still not feeling rested, there may be a bigger issue at play causing sleep disturbances.
3. Hormone Disruptions- Low Testosterone can be a cause of a lack of mojo in both men and women. Hormonal changes such as menopause and perimenopause can also affect the drive to do the deed.
4. Depression- Depression shows up in all areas of your life, and working with a counsellor or other professional can also help with being intimate with your partner.
7. Alcohol- This may seem a bit counterintuitive, as alcohol does lower your inhibitions, but as a depressant, it actually impacts your libido, ability to orgasm, and physical function (which can also lead to shame and other emotional blocks)
8. Overarching Relationship Issues- Issues with conflicts or breakdowns in communication and feelings of closeness play a big role in our desire to get it on with our partner. Working through these issues together or with a therapist or counsellor may be the best path back into the horizontal tango.
Libido Boosters
Besides eating a balanced whole food diet and getting plenty of rest, exercise, and water, here are a few more things you can do to boost your sex drive.
1. Try a Herbal Support- Maca, tribulus, ginkgo, and ginseng are all shown to help boost sex drive in both men and women.
2. Get Up and Move- Exercise boosts your libido, and improves your health.
3. Dark Chocolate- Dark chocolate helps to reduce stress, and increases dopamine and serotonin levels, both of which are conducive to getting in the mood.
4. Hot Peppers- Spicy foods help to increase blood flow and also release endorphins. Just be sure to be mindful of your hands and lips for any residual spice!
5. Oysters- It’s true! They are an aphrodisiac. And this is because they are loaded with zinc, which helps elevate testosterone levels.
6. Fatty Fish- Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and tuna, help increase dopamine levels, which leaves you feeling more relaxed, and better able to connect with your partner.