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4 Ways That Yoga Can Enhance Your Sex Life

From the mat to the bed, yoga is the ultimate foreplay.

Fitday Editor

Integrating yoga into your sex life might seem awkward or intimidating, but it’s actually pretty simple. On a physical level, yoga is probably the most sustainable and healthy way to enhance your sex life. And yogic traditions, like Tantra, actually see sexuality as a tool for self-realization. But you don’t have to be a mystic to reap the sexual benefits of yoga.

Here’s why you should consider rolling out the mat before hopping in the sack. Plus, a few easy postures to get you started.

You’ll feel more confident.

The word “yoga” comes from the word “yog” in Sanskrit, which literally translates to “union.” For yogis, this specifically refers to union with the divine, but it can also just mean a deeper connection with yourself. That’s why you feel like a fucking rockstar after a yoga class. In general, yoga removes the nasty voice in your head that says you’re not hot enough, smart enough, buff enough, or skinny enough. As you strip down for your partner after yoga, you’re less likely to dwell on every imperfection, blemish and soft spot. Instead you’ll love your body as the temple that it is — cellulite and all. And a positive body image is the sexiest body image.

You can go deep (and not just physically).

Whether you’re in a life-long partnership or enjoying a fling, there’s no reason why sex can’t be an act of love — every single time. A casual sexual relationship does not have to mean a meaningless sexual relationship. The practice of yoga is, simply put, a practice of self-awareness. It’s a practice of falling in love with yourself, and not in a narcissistic way. The act of self-love automatically translates to a more positive perception of everyone around you, especially intimate partners. By feeling more connected to yourself, you’ll feel more connected to your partner.

More energy and increased libido.

The practice of yoga postures (asana) combined with breathing (pranayama) is, on the physical level, balancing our endocrine system. This is the system that regulates everything from our metabolism to our mood. In essence, consistent yoga practice is beneficial to every aspect of the human condition — including sex. Here are a couple postures that will boost your energy and arousal:

Sarvangasana / Shoulder Stand (Thyroid gland) - Shoulder stand works on balancing the thyroid gland, which regulates our metabolism and energy levels.

Start by lying on your back with hands by your side. Lift your legs to the ceiling and simultaneously place your hands on your butt or lower back. Then walk your hands up your spine, while lifting your legs higher. Try and get your hands to rest just under the shoulder blades. Hold for 10 breaths.

Mula Bandha / Perineum Lock (Pelvic Nerves and Genital System) - In yoga, bandhas are body locks that help you regulate your entire endocrine system. Out of three main bandhas, the Mula Bandha increases the flow of energy in the pelvic area and moves it up and around your body.

To try Mula Bandha, sit on your mat with your legs crossed. Contract your pelvic muscles like you’re trying not to pee. Hold for 15 seconds. And then try for 20 seconds, eventually working your way up to 60 seconds. Just a couple sessions a day will have your whole body buzzing with sexual energy!

Better flexibility.

Ok, this is the obvious one. While yoga is about much, much more than being flexible, it certainly doesn’t hurt to be a little more bendy between the sheets. Even if you’re not into acrobatic sex positions, a few stretches before the act really can make a difference. The most useful postures will depend on your favorite sex positions, but a few of the most common postures should do the trick.

Uttanasana / Standing Forward Bend - Flexible hamstrings will be helpful for women who like to bring their legs up in missionary.

Stand with your feet together and your spine straight. Try and pull your inner thighs backward as you point your pelvis to the floor. Slowly bend forward with your hands on your hips, or you can place them on the mat next to your feet. Go as far as you can without feeling sharp pain. Hold for 10 breaths.

Badhakonasana / Butterfly Pose - This is a hip opener that is beneficial for both the man (as he thrusts) and woman (as she straddles her partner). It’s also just fun to be a butterfly.

Sit on your mat with your spine straight and the bottoms of your feet touching. Bring your heels as close to your pelvis as feels comfortable. Roll forward to touch your forehead to your feet (it’s ok if this doesn’t actually happen). Hold for 5 breaths. Move your heels a few inches away from your pelvis and hold for another 5 breaths. Keep moving your heels away from the pelvis to move the energy from your groin area and inner thighs to your outer hips.

Setu Bandha Sarvangasana / Half Bridge Pose - This is an easy back bend that keeps the spine supple through all the thrusting and arching. It also makes for a deep sex position (woman in half bridge, man on his knees).

Lie on your back with palms facing down by your sides. Bend your knees and place your feet on the mat. Your fingertips should be able to gently brush your heels. Keeping your knees parallel to each other (try not to let them spread outward), raise your hips to the ceiling as far as you can, bringing your chest towards your chin. The goal is to create an arch in your back. Now, bend your elbows and place your hands under your lower back (thumbs touching). For a deeper back bend, keep your hands in place to support your back, straighten your legs to go into full bridge.

These are just a few basic ways you can start using yoga to boost your sex life — and ultimately your vitality and well-being. The most important thing is to do what feels good for your body. However you get there, great sex is a result of great self-esteem!

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