Everyone knows that yoga is great for your health, but did you know it can also help improve your sex life?

Aside from the obvious improvements gained by any type of exercise, yoga has a variety of benefits that will improve both your health and sex life. The most noticeable effects of practicing yoga are a reduction in stress, increased energy levels, better sleep, and improved flexibility which can all contribute to a better sex life. The less noticeable but nonetheless impacting effects of yoga include increased blood flow to the pelvic area with the consistent practice of yoga poses which can offer more intense sensations during sex and ultimate orgasm, an improve in your overall sense of self confidence as studies show people who practice yoga are less likely to gain weight over time as they age, and an increase in self respect and self love as yoga teaches that the body is a temple to be revered and protected.

Yoga also improves the ability to be receptive to others without judgment at times of vulnerability( as is usually the case during sex) as it brings increased awareness of your own body and sensitivity to the vibes and moods of others thereby  assisting you in better pleasing your partner and communicating what it is that you like and want during intimacy. Yoga helps you to be fully in the moment and present when you spend intimate time with your partner as many practices require complete relaxation of both the body and the mind, providing practitioners with an undeniable state of clarity.

To practice yoga, seek out your local gym as most offer yoga classes free with memberships or a local yoga studio nearest you. Prices are not unreasonable, especially considering what you receive in return.

If you’re a beginner & are unsure about taking a class try these simple tips:

• Deep Breathing: Close your eyes and sit or lay on the floor (however is most comfortable). Take slow deep breaths in as you mentally count to 10 and then exhale for 10. Repeat as many times as you wish, but try and aim for at least 10 inhales and 10 exhales a day. It’s a great refresher and will reduce anxiety and stress immediately.
• Butterfly Pose: This pose may sound unfamiliar, but I’ve bet you’ve done it during stretching at gym class. Simply sit on the floor with the bottom of your feet touching, knees bent, parallel to the floor. Bend your torso, at the waist, over your legs for a nice long stretch. Do this in combination with deep breathing techniques.
• Super Man: Everyone does this, even babies. Lie on your stomach with your hands resting on the floor over your head, palms to the floor. Slowly, lift up your legs and hands, arching your back slightly. Hold for 10 (remember to breathe!) and then lower for ten. Repeat at least 5 times. Enjoy flying!
• Plank: This might be more known to pilates lovers, but is so effective everyone should do it. Cherished by active women everywhere for it’s ability to tone, tighten and strength the ab muscles, plank is done by bending your arms (at the elbow) into a 45 degree angle forearms against the floor. Using your forearms as support, raise onto your toes, with your legs straight out behind you, paralell to the floor. It should look like you’re doing a push up, only you’re not going anywhere and your forearms are holding you in place instead of your hands. All you have to do is hold it for 30 second intervals. Hold 30, rest 30. Repeat as many times as you can.

Good Luck!