Would you rather run 75 miles or have sex three times per week for a year? Research shows that both activities burn the same number of calories. (7,500, to be exact).We often think that some thing what feels good cannot possibly be good for us. Now it is time to think again. Sex in a loving, intimate relationship and has numerous health benefits. In women, for example, the sexual act triggers the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin promotes the feelings of affection and triggers that nurturing instinct. In men, sex encourages the flow of testosterone, which strengthens bones and muscles and helps transport DHEA hormone that may be important in the function of the body? immune system. Regular sex is regular exercise and has similar benefits, including improved cholesterol levels and increased circulation. Sex, like exercise, release endorphins. Endorphins contribute to the runners high and diminishes pain levels. Sex therapists remind us that frequent sex is a form of exercise.

Other benefits of having regular sex include:

Increased blood flow

Sex helps increase the blood flow to our brain and to all other organs of the body. Increased heart rate and deep breathing accounts for improvement in circulation. As fresh blood supply arrives, our cells, organs and muscles are saturated with fresh oxygen and hormones, and as the used blood is removed, the body also remove waste products that cause fatigue and even illness.

Stress reduction, relaxation and improved sleep

People have frequent sex often report that they handle stress better, so the normal stresses of living do not become distress. The profound relaxation that typically follows lovemaking with orgasm for women and ejaculation or orgasm for men, may be one of the few times people actually allow themselves to completely let go, surrender and relax.

Maintaining ideal body weight

There are 3500 calories in a pond of fat. For every 3500 calories we burn, we will lose one pound of fat. Sexual intercourse burns approximately 150 per half hour.

Lower cholesterol

Lowering of cholesterol is another of sex as exercise benefits. Sex helps as exercise benefits. Sex helps lower the overall cholesterol level. Perhaps more importantly it tips the HDL/LDL (good/bad) cholesterol balance towards the healthier HDL side.

Sex as pain reliever

Through the touch magic of sex the hormone oxytocin is secreted in our body which in turn causes the release of endorphins. Because of these natural opiates, sex acts as powerful analgesics, elevating the pain threshold and helping to relieve the aches like arthritis, whiplash and headaches.In fact, studies indicate that intimacy plays a key role in the health benefits of sex. A promiscuous sexual relationship may actually produce an opposite effect by introducing a sense of anxiety and fear. Sex therapists say sex acts on the principal of  ?use it or lose it?. So, for your heart, mind, and soul, the best advice may be to ?just do it.?