Sex can be fun, pleasurable, intimate & actually good exercise! So how does it link to your wellbeing?
This article is sponsored by Lovehoney, So Divine, Ann Summers, Durex, Trojan & Viagra Connect
If you think the conversation around sexual wellbeing has opened up in the past few years, you’d be right! More and more people are embracing talking about sexual health and wellness. But it can still feel like a taboo to talk about sex sometimes.
At Boots, we’re here to continue this conversation, support your sexual wellbeing and help break down these taboos. After all, sex is a big part of life, whether you’re having it with a partner or on your own. Keep reading for our tips on reconnecting with your sexuality.
Why is sexual wellness important?
There’s a lot to be gained from prioritising your sexual wellness and having a positive relationship with sex. As well as being fun, fulfilling and meaningful, sex can in fact be good for your overall wellbeing. There are a wide range of wellbeing benefits, from exercising your heart to helping you connect on a more intimate level with yourself or your partner.
Sexual wellness is different for everyone. It’s entirely dependent on what you like or don’t like to do sexually, and discovering your preferences is all part of the fun!
If you’re experiencing a sexual health concern or problem, speak to your GP or visit your nearest sexual health clinic for further advice.
How to reconnect with your sexuality
Whether you’re looking to enhance intimacy or take solo sex to the next level, there are plenty of ways to reconnect with your sexuality. Here are seven tips for giving your sex life a boost…
1. Make time for sex
Just like we make time for social plans, work and other parts of life, carving out time for sex can help it stay on the priority list. That’s not to say it needs to be written down in a schedule or on a to-do list! It can also be about allowing yourself to be flexible with your time so you can enjoy spontaneous sex or self-pleasure. Or you could make it part of your self-care routine or regular date nights with a partner – whatever suits you.
2. Set the mood
Creating a safe space where you feel comfortable and confident can help get you in the mood for sex and really enhance the experience. So, whether that’s removing all screens from your room, playing your favourite music or experimenting with lighting, there are plenty of ways to set the mood.
3. Talk about sex
Sex isn’t just about the physical act, communication plays a big role, too. Talking about your desires and preferences with a partner is a great way to help you feel closer together and more fulfilled in your sex life.
Or having an open discussion with friends can help break down some of the stigma that’s traditionally surrounded talking about sex. What better chance to get those questions that you’ve always been curious about answered?
You could also try listening to others talk about sex, for example on our podcast Taboo Talks where you can find lots of honest and frank conversations about sex and other traditionally taboo health topics.
4. Be more sensual
You don’t have to have sex or indulge in self-pleasure to feel in touch with your sexuality. Touching your partner intimately through massage, kissing and hugging can help you feel connected outside of sex. Or it could even be as simple as putting on an outfit that makes you feel at your most confident and sexy to bring out your sensual side.
5. Explore more
Discovering your sexual preferences takes time and exploration. There’s so much to experiment with on that journey, from location and positions to fantasies and desires. Not sure where to start? Why not try a sex toy or gadget to enhance self-pleasure or use with a partner to spice things up?
Try: Lovehoney Ignite 20 Function Rechargeable Mini Wand Vibrator
• 20 functions
• USB rechargeable
• Waterproof
Don’t be fooled by its petite size, this mini wand vibrator packs plenty of power with 17 different patterns and three vibration settings so you can find your own rhythm. It’s perfect for beginners, plus its discreet design features a travel lock and comes with a storage bag for enjoying moments of pleasure on the go.
Try: So Divine 11 Function Clitoral Suction Stimulator – Irreplaceable
• 11 suction patterns
• USB rechargeable
• Water resistant
This irresistible stimulator uses powerful suction technology to gently pulsate air over your clitoris. With 11 different settings and pinpoint precision, it will tease and stimulate you into a mind-blowing orgasm during solo play, or why not let your partner use it on you during sex?
Try: My Viv Kegel Trainer Blue
• 10 vibrating settings
• USB rechargeable
• Made from body-safe silicone
• Remote-controlled
A true multi-tasker, this vibrating egg with 10 different vibrating patterns can be used to stimulate the g-spot (a part of the vagina that some consider a real sexual hot spot when aroused) and for doing kegal exercises to help you gain control over your pelvic floor muscles. When used consistently over time, it’s designed to help heighten pleasure during intercourse.
6. Practise safe sex
If you’re having sex with a partner, then practising safe sex by using condoms can help prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). All of this can help you feel in control during sex, but condoms can also enhance pleasure. Safe sex really can be great sex!
Try: Durex Real Feel Non-Latex Condoms – 12 Pack
• Made from non-latex polyisoprene
• Transparent
• Extra lubricated
• Teat-ended
Want to experience a skin-on-skin feeling during sex? Then go for these Real Feel condoms from Durex. They’re made from non-latex polyisoprene which has a natural skin feeling so you can feel even more connected with your partner.
Always read the instructions. RKT-M-13729
Try: Magnum BareSkin Large Size Condoms 10s by Trojan
• Larger than standard latex condoms for extra comfort
• Thin for extra sensitivity
• Tapered at the base for a secure fit
• Lubricated
• Special reservoir end for extra safety
Big for comfort and big for pleasure, these larger than average condoms provide more room for more comfort and are easy to put on so that you can stay in the moment. The Magnum BareSkin condoms are also the thinnest Magnum condoms for heightened sensitivity. With a silky-smooth lubricant and wide contoured shape, make these your new go-to for an intimate feeling with your partner.
7. Prioritise your sexual health
Taking control of your sexual health can help you feel empowered and confident when it comes to sex. Whether that’s getting tested for STIs or seeking treatment for sexual health conditions such as erectile dysfunction, it’s important to see your GP or visit your local sexual health clinic if you have any concerns.
Alternatively, there are also several services available from our sexual health hub, which may be of use, provided they’re suitable for you.*
Consider: Viagra Connect 50mg Film-Coated Tablets – 4 Tablets
Be ready for anything and free your feel good with Viagra Connect. Trusted by over one million men** to help you get and keep an erection for those needing support with erectile problems.
Viagra Connect film-coated tablets. Contains Sildenafil. For erection problems. Always read the label.
*Access to treatment and prescription only medicine is subject to a consultation with a clinician to assess suitability. Subject to availability. Eligibility criteria and charges may apply.
**Estimated from reported Viagra Connect use since launch (Kantar 2019, Viagra Connect onlinebus survey, 1,499 men 35yrs+) & UK male population 35+ yrs VIAC-2023-0027.
