Sex drive is incredibly complex, as you can tell by the media attention around “fixing” it. The best way to increase your sex drive, or stop it from being low, is by taking care of your health and wellness. Easier said than done, right?
“I agree with the view that our perception of our own bodies plays a significant role in sexual desire,” says Dr. Laura Castaneda. “This idea is supported by many studies showing that becoming more aware and mindful of the body, and viewing our bodies non-judgmentally, can be a way to really tune into arousal. So, ultimately, while a pill might help getting our neurotransmitters going, the rest is up to us!”
Like your mood, your sex drive responds to your general wellbeing. Unhealthy habits like smoking and heavy drinking can reduce your interest in sex, so try cutting back on the weekend mimosas and keep to a mostly-healthy diet with treats in moderation.
Stress and depression can also cause a lower sex drive. While stressful situations are not always under our control, do what you can to reduce stress in your life, get a good night’s sleep, enjoy the outdoors when possible and make exercise a daily habit, even if it’s just fifteen minutes of stretching or a walk around your neighborhood. If you think you’re experiencing depression, talk to your doctor. They might have suggestions for treatment, possibly including medication.
Some medications can also change your desire for sex. Many women find that some types of birth control lower their sex drive, in which case it might be worth trying a different prescription.