In his classical discussion of the subject, Aristotle extolled the virtues of the early riser, writing, “Rising before daylight … is to be commended.” Being an avid classicist, Benjamin Franklin later encapsulated the same opinion in snappy English prose: “Early to Bed, and early to rise, makes a Man healthy, wealthy, and wise.”
More recently, there has been a push for ever earlier roll calls, work conferences, and breakfast meetings. We’re urged to relegate Twitter and Facebook to those lulls in the afternoon. After all, morning is a time for getting real work done. There’s coffee to be brewed, hogs to be fed, and nookie to be enjoyed.
The Benefits of Morning Sex
The preceding agenda obviously contains both a euphemism for sex and a decidedly feeble attempt at humor. That said, those who like to incorporate the no pants dance into their daily morning routine will, in fact, tell you it’s fun, spontaneous, and better.
Granted, we’re not all morning people, and morning breath isn’t exactly a huge turn-on for most. But science does overwhelmingly support the enthusiasm of those who regularly enjoy sex in the morning.
Below are just a few of the benefits you might reap should you and your partner decide to schedule a mingling of limbs in the smaller hours.
1. Your body wants sex in the morning.
Mornings are the perfect time for sex because your body is primed for it in the early hours. Estrogen and testosterone levels are at their peak during these times, say scientists. Recent research indicates that these higher hormone levels increase the sex drive, allowing better performance and staying power.
Men, in particular, produce more testosterone in the morning, and are likely to have more vigorous libidos and erections.
“Morning sex is an opportunity for him to capitalize on that and hopefully focus more on pleasuring you, too,” says sex therapist Megan Fleming.
There is also the fact that your mind is rested in the morning, which is just as important. Arousal only happens when you’re relaxed and your mind is clear, says Fleming. That’s why achieving an earth-shattering orgasm is almost impossible after a hectic day at work, much easier when you’ve just had a full night’s sleep.
2. Morning sex preps you for the rest of the day.
While it may not be everybody’s cup of tea, if you do have sex in the morning, you’ll likely notice a spirited skip to your step all day. That’s not just your imagination.
The rush of endorphins sparked by sex lowers your blood pressure and boosts your immune system, making you better prepared for the day ahead.
There’s more. Since sex is a natural pain-killer, some morning nookie may even help ease any chronic aches and pains during the course of the day.
“Those endorphins released during orgasm can help dull pain, say, from cramps or headaches, that might come on later in the day,” says Arielle Siclait for Women’s Health magazine. “Consider it nature’s ibuprofen.”
3. Morning sex gives you that natural glow.
Jealous of that girl who glides into the office every morning with fresh, rosy cheeks, full lips, and clear, natural skin? Her secret might just be that she has more sex in the morning than you.
Orgasms are nature’s make-up artists. “Blood rushes to all parts of the body, including the face,” says sex therapist Erica Evans-Weaver.
Basically, blood delivers oxygen throughout your body, promoting ideal color and vigor. Your lips will be full and flushed without lipstick, and your cheeks and face will be dewy without make-up.
Research also shows that energetic sexual activity helps eliminate toxins from your body, which improves your overall appearance.
4. Morning sex strengthens your relationship – and more.
Sex produces oxytocin, a chemical to which you owe your very existence. The hormone is the reason why, on at least one occasion, your mother did not reject your father’s advances with a baseball bat. Lucky for you, the oxytocin in her system allowed for enough contact to ensure your happy conception.
The same tender alchemy is behind the love between you and your partner – and much more. In fact, researchers say the oxytocin in our brains is responsible for every act of kindness, friendship, and trust that has made human society possible. Now, wouldn’t having all that coursing through your system be a great start to your day?
“Oxytocin makes you feel more connected with your partner and more loved,” says psychologist Emily Morse. “These warm feelings will stay with you throughout the day or at least throughout the morning commute.”
Getting Down and Dirty in the Morning
None of the foregoing contests the fact that sex between consenting adults can be wonderful no matter what the time of day. But if you can get down and dirty when you’re rested and more alert, you’ll likely be more relaxed, creative, and energetic.
That means you’ll probably have a better chance at attaining that elusive sexual nirvana.
That’s probably why a full 34 percent of people throughout the world prefer a little romp in the morning more than any other time of day. Joy comes in the morning, so the saying goes.
Is it time to change your morning routine?
