Ever wonder if Sapphire and George (“Kingfish) Stevens on The Amos ‘n Andy Show made love? We knew from their chemistry that Good Times’ Florida and James Evans ‘did the do.’ And what about The Jeffersons’ Louise (“Weezie”) and George, bet they probably took care of biz. It’s safe to say these fictional television characters ‘got it on.’ Now, how can you make your sex life more satisfying in the New Year?
We’ve all been told that regular exercise and healthy eating fuels the libido. But is that all there is to better sex? Of course, not! Sure, maturing can bring its own set of sexual challenges that can put lovemaking on the back burner. There is much you can do to compensate for the normal changes that come with becoming more seasoned.
As mature adults, we’ve come to understand that life is truly short. And by the way, through its health-improving benefits, a good sex life can add years to your life. Therefore, sexual fun should be our daily mantra.
Bottom line…sex equals fun!
Here are sex tips that are sure to bring in the New Year with gusto!
Be bold–Being over 50 has certainly taught us a thing or two. We recognize our character strengths, as well as our flaws. We know our needs and desires have to be met to be our best selves. We understand that our lives have purpose. We are old enough to know what we want and how to get it. Today’s 50-plus seasoned adults are go-getters who are self-assured. Put passion into practice by being bold and confident.
Feeling sexy? Let your partner know it! Speaking openly about sex may not come easily to you, but improving your communication will help both of you feel closer, and can make sex more pleasurable. When something feels good or bad, don’t be shy about speaking up because doing so can lead to even better sex.
Flirting is key–Whether married, in a committed relationship, or single, we all want to feel desired. This is where flirting comes into play. The art of flirting has been around since the beginning of time and it never gets lame. It’s a definite ego booster to know that someone finds you desirable.
There is nothing wrong with the old tried and true ways of flirting like teasing, eye contact, complimenting, whispering into someone’s ear. However you decide to flirt make sure to exude confidence, self-esteem and appear in control of your emotions and in your ability to communicate. Don’t look desperate to connect or force things. Don’t forget to keep your flirting ways sexy!
Keep grooming habits tight–In this age of COVID, it might be hard to leave the house looking your best but DO make an effort. Keep your body prepped! Smell good, keep things sexy under your clothes. Kick those holey drawers to the curb! Sisters, keep up your beauty regimen. Brothers, don’t stop visiting your barber. Move waaay past those ‘lockdown looks!’ When you look like you care about your appearance, you’ll be sure to attract folks.
Free your mind–Sexuality does not have an expiration date whether you are with or without a partner. As we move up in age, both men and women will experience physical body changes. There are items that will enhance sexuality like vibrators, lubricants, hormone replacement therapies for women. There are pills that men can take to increase sex drive. Let’s not forget those little pills that can aid erectile dysfunction.
Believe it or not, parts of our brain regulate our sexual behavior. The most powerful thing you can do to embrace your older sexual self is to free your mind. Remember, the Parliament-Funkadelic song Free Your Mind and Your Ass Will Follow? The title of the classic song makes a whole lot of sense. Free your mind from other people’s expectations and your insecurities. Do you.
Empower yourself by being sexually happy. Whether it’s kissing, snuggling, massaging, oral sex, penetration/no penetration, experimenting with new positions, making love outside the bedroom, or making love to yourself. Sexuality is a mind/body connection.
Listen up ladies–As women age, estrogen (the hormone that promotes sexual and reproductive development) levels take a nosedive. One of the symptoms is vaginal dryness. Speak to your doctor about your sexual issues and possible therapies available.
According to research by the Linus Pauling Institute of Oregon State University, eating plant-based foods that contain phytoestrogens which may help women raise their estrogen levels. Examples of the foods include:
Seeds: flaxseeds and sesame seeds
Dried fruits
Fruit: apricots, oranges, strawberries, and peaches
Vegetables: yams, carrots, alfalfa sprouts, kale, and celery
Dark rye bread
Legumes: lentils, peas, and pinto beans
Olives and olive oil
Chickpeas
Listen up gents–Aging men have their fair share of sexual challenges too. The most common sex issue for older men is erectile dysfunction (ED). With ED a man has difficulty achieving and sustaining an erection; talk about an embarrassing, emotionally stressful, and bona fide ego-killer.
There are many effective medical treatments and therapies for ED. In some cases, a doctor might suggest lifestyle changes to possibly improve ED such as losing weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, increasing exercise, and reducing daily stress.
Researchers from the University of Texas discovered how men can raise their testosterone (the primary sex hormone) levels by eating foods high in monounsaturated fat and zinc including:
Oils: olive, peanut
Avocados
Olives
Nuts: almonds and cashews
Oysters
Wheat germ
Shellfish: lobster and crab
Chickpeas
Oatmeal
Kidney beans
Raisins
Dark, green leafy vegetables
Bananas
Sex has lots of health benefits–Sex can even help you to live longer. Sex also boosts your immune system, burns calories, lowers blood pressure, helps with relaxation, reduces stress, and keeps your mind sharp.
Sex may lower the risk for heart attacks, strokes, and other heart diseases. In 2010, the New England Research Institute conducted a massive study. Its results suggested that regular sexual activity may reduce heart disease risk.
According to National Cancer Institute, a study showed that men who ejaculated at least five times a week, whether through sex or masturbation, were less likely to get prostate cancer.
Studies have also shown that women who have vaginal intercourse often have less risk of breast cancer than those who don’t.
So, if you want a healthy life, aim for some good healthy sex!