Stress can add a whole lot to the decline in your libido and the stress of life and work is not getting you in the mood by any stretch of the mind.

Stress is one of all the natural libido killers out there. It is a hidden demon, one that lurks over us, seemingly unable to be controlled. We have busy lives, deadlines, partners, families, and a lot of other things to worry about. Sex just doesn’t feel appealing right now. Check out these ways that stress affects your sex drive.

1. Your brain tells you this is a dangerous condition

Stress turns off your brain’s tendency to form sexual desire. Your body is in distress, and therefore it shuts down. Your brain tells your body: We are in distress. Now is not the time to try and procreate. Your body increases heart rate and other bodily functions that will help you escape while turning off those considered by nature to be nonessential. Studies have shown the 10-20 percent of people become more aroused in stressful situations. The point being, not everyone falls under one umbrella.

2. Your body releases stress hormones

When you’re under a lot of pressure, your body begins to ooze cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. When cortisol levels go up, libido goes down. High cortisol can even hinder your ability to experience orgasm. You may also experience trouble lubricating and a feeling of sluggishness. When you have orgasms, your body releases feel-good chemicals like dopamine, and cortisol naturally declines.

3. Create time for yourself

Self-care is crucial to lowering stress levels. We know, easier said than done. It’s not simple to put time aside for yourself to relax. Devote a half to full hour entirely to yourself, daily. Take a hot bath. Breathe deeply and try to unwind. Going to sleep stressed will only result in poorer sleep quality and residual stress the next day.

Do you need someone to talk to about your sexual lifestyle? Do you have questions about sex? Do you want your sex life to be better? Send your questions to hotpulse@pulse.ng