Sex is a vital part of living a happy and fulfilled life, and our bodies rely on intricate and complex systems to allow us to experience optimal sexual health and performance. Unfortunately, however, it’s not uncommon for men to experience sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, which can be caused by anything from psychological issues to physical health troubles. As such, it’s important for men to look for solutions to erectile issues, and, luckily, there are several options available to them. One such option is yoga.
What is Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago and involves various postures, movements, controlled breathing, meditation, and relaxation techniques. Generally, yoga is believed to promote both physical and mental wellbeing, and, as such, can be used to help manage both physical and mental health conditions.
How Does Yoga Relate to Erectile Dysfunction?
Yoga increases blood flow to the pelvic region, which may improve erectile health and performance. Additionally, it is believed to work by calming the nervous system, which helps alleviate tension and stress that may be causing some sexual performance anxiety. Furthermore, yoga also helps reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone linked to stress, which may have a positive effect on the production of testosterone—the primary sex hormone in males.
What Postures Can I Use?
Although any type of yoga can potentially help improve erectile dysfunction, certain postures have more noticeable effects:
The Sage Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)
This pose is great for promoting blood flow to the abdominal region and is relatively easy to perform. To start you begin seated with your feet together and your legs straight out in front of you, with the right foot outside of the left thigh. You then bring your right knee towards your chest, twist your torso and lower your right knee onto the floor behind your left thigh. Finally, you place your left elbow on the outside of the right knee, and your right elbow on the inside. This posture should be held for 20-30 seconds before releasing it and repeating it with the opposite side.
The Cat-Cow Pose (Marjariasana_Bitilasana)
This pose will help improve blood circulation and massage both the stomach and the lower back. Start by placing the hands and knees on the floor with the wrists below the shoulders and the knees beneath the hips. From this position you can arch your back, hold for a few seconds, and then relax it. As you exhale, lift your chin up and bring your lower back in with the chin facing your ribcage. You can hold this position for a few seconds before releasing it and repeating it.
The Downward Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
This posture helps to restore the nervous system and can be used to help prevent fatigue. To begin, start in the tabletop position on all fours with your wrists beneath the shoulder and knees beneath the hips. Lift your hips and press your tailbone towards the ceiling. Reach your heels towards the ground to create an inverted V shape with your body. Hold this pose for 30 seconds and then release it, repeating it as necessary.
Final Thoughts
Yoga is a great way to improve sexual health, and it has been found to be particularly beneficial for those experiencing erectile dysfunction. By engaging in regular yoga practice and performing the postures mentioned above, men may be able to improve their sexual health and performance.
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