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Cold, Flu, COVID Season’s Here: How About Having More Sex?
Here we are. Right on the brink of cold, flu and COVID season combined. And who would've thought that when it comes to proactively fighting these viruses as well as combating some of the symptoms that come right along with them, having sex would be a truly effective, all-natural and totally satisfying remedy?
Before getting into that, though, I think it's important to put on record that while the cold, flu and COVID are all viruses, they are not one and the same. While I'm pretty sure you hear about what makes COVID, well, the way that it is ad nauseum (you can check out some CDC info here), as you're navigating through things like fevers, sore throats, coughing, congestion, headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath and other things that can make being sick an absolute nightmare, it's important to keep in mind that while a cold and the flu are both respiratory viruses, the flu has much more severe symptoms.
Not only that but the first 3-4 days are when you typically catch the brunt of it all with colds and the flu taking 1-2 weeks to fully get past. It's also important to keep in mind that if you happen to have a fever, chills and a load of fatigue, that is usually not a common cold; that's usually the flu; however, if you're not exactly sure, you can always make an appointment to see your doctor (because again, COVID).
Now with all of that out of the way, how in the world does copulation (and/or oral sex) prove to be just about as effective as "an apple a day keeps the doctor away"? Sit tight. You might just be surprised.
Sex Lowers Your Stress Levels
There's nothing good that comes from being stressed out all of the time. That's why I'm such a huge supporter of people being extremely proactive when it comes to balancing out the stress triggers that are in their life. That said, I'm pretty sure it comes as no shocker to you that when you are stressed, it can compromise your immune system (more on that in just a sec). When that happens, your body can actually produce flu-like symptoms (ugh). That's the bad news. The good news is when you have sex, it raises your endorphin and oxytocin levels which are both feel-good hormones. Sex also has the ability to lower your cortisol (your natural stress hormone) levels as well as your blood pressure — and when it comes to managing stress, that is always a good thing.
Sex Boosts Your Immunity
There is absolutely no way that you can fight off viruses that lead to sickness if your immune system is shot. One way you can do that is by checking out the article, "Ready To Try 10 Quick & Easy Immune-Boosting Hacks?" on our site. Matter of fact, one of the points in it happens to give sex a big ole' shout-out. While it's kind of a long and scientific tale, the main reason why sex is so great for your immunity is because it helps your system to produce the kind of antibodies that are able to fight off viruses, bacteria and other germs that could lead to you not feeling very well. So, if you've not been making sex much of a priority these days, here's a really solid reason why you should definitely consider doing so.
Sperm/Semen Is a Multivitamin
An article that I wrote for the site a couple of years ago that received quite a bit of traction was, "Do You Swallow? The Unexpected Health Benefits Of Sperm". While I know that going down/giving head may not be everybody's cup of tea (check out "Sooo...What If You HATE Oral?"), there's absolutely no way around the fact that sperm and semen (the fluid that carries sperm) are literally like a multivitamin. They're packed with protein, vitamins B12 and C, zinc, calcium, magnesium, potassium, citrate, sugar, sodium, melatonin and more with a teaspoon of it equaling to around a stick of gum (five or so calories).
Since sperm/semen also contain oxytocin and progesterone, not only can they help to strengthen your immune system, they can help to get — or keep — you in a good mood too. Sperm/semen also have a great reputation for helping to decrease depression-related symptoms, speed up the healing process of wounds, fight aging signs, reduce inflammation and increase your overall lifespan. Plus, since the cold nor the flu can be spread via sexual fluids (sperm, semen or vaginal fluids), that's one more reason to consider giving sperm/semen a shot (pun intended); especially as a "intercourse alternative" until you're up to feeling better.
Kissing Increases Your Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Levels
If you like to kiss a lot and you rarely ever get sick, there could be a correlation between the two. Something that is located within the mucous membranes of your lungs, sinuses, stomach, intestines and bodily fluids are antibodies known as Immunoglobulin A (IgA). These are cool because they help your body to get better at fighting off illnesses.
So, when you and your partner exchange saliva, you are actually increasing each other's IgA levels. There are even studies which cite that having sex 1-2 times a week can significantly boost your IgA levels too. Crazy, huh?
Orgasms Can Clear Up Congestion
Are you someone who fakes orgasms? If so, this is a good reason to quit — right here and right now. Believe it or not, experiencing an orgasm can help to clear up a clogged up nose! While scientists and medical professionals are still trying to unpack exactly why this is the case, what they believe is, going through all of the phases of an orgasm — excitement, plateau, orgasm and resolution — can work together to help to clear out your nasal passages. And since a stuffy nose is one of the most annoying things about being sick, this is definitely some pretty good food for thought.
Orgasms Are a Natural Pain Reliever
Remember how I gave a shout-out to endorphins earlier in this piece? Another benefit that comes from them is they're a natural painkiller. So, whenever you are touched or touched, that helps to stimulate the release of them. In fact, there is plenty of data to support that sex helps to reduce the discomfort that is associated with headaches and even migraines. Sex can help to soothe body aches too. So, if you happen to be someone who tries and avoids sex when your head is pounding, according to science, it's something that you actually should be totally open to running to instead of away from. Let me tell it, it beats the hell outta Advil and NyQuil. Maybe that's just me, though.
Certain Positions Can Reduce the Chance of Spreading Germs
Even though viruses like colds and the flu cannot be spread via sexual fluids, they can when someone coughs or sneezes (which is why still wearing a mask during this pandemic is so important). That's why you can definitely still run the risk of getting your partner sick if you decide to have sex while you are contagious (which is around two weeks with a cold or COVID and 3-7 days for the flu). Still, if you want to be able to get into some of the benefits that sex provides after the first few days of falling ill, the key is to get into positions where you and your partner aren't exactly face to face like spooning, doggy style and/or reverse cowgirl.
Sex Improves Your Quality of Sleep
One way that you can definitely make yourself vulnerable when it comes to catching a virus is not getting enough sleep ("getting enough" means sleeping no less than 6-8 hours every night, not every once in a while). That's because a result of sleep deprivation is a weakened immune system and, as we already addressed, the worse off your immune system is, the more susceptible you are to falling ill. I think we all can attest to the fact that a good round of sex can produce some of the best sleep EVER. That's because sex increases hormones like oxytocin, prolactin, progesterone, endorphins and dopamine — all of which help you to feel really good as they relax your system and calm your mind as well.
Like I said, virus 2.0 season is right in our faces (pun intended); that's unavoidable. But if you're open to having more sex than usual, you literally increase your chances of avoiding them. I can't think of a more gratifying, pleasurable and rewarding way to do it either. I really can't.
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Different puzzle pieces are creating bigger pictures these days. 2024 will mark a milestone on a few different levels, including the release of my third book next June (yay!).
I am also a Professional Certified Coach. My main mission for attaining that particular goal is to use my formal credentials to help people navigate through the sometimes tumultuous waters, both on and offline, when it comes to information about marriage, sex and relationships that is oftentimes misinformation (because "coach" is a word that gets thrown around a lot, oftentimes quite poorly).
I am also still super devoted to helping to bring life into this world as a doula, marriage life coaching will always be my first love (next to writing, of course), a platform that advocates for good Black men is currently in the works and my keystrokes continue to be devoted to HEALTHY over HAPPY in the areas of holistic intimacy, spiritual evolution, purpose manifestation and self-love...because maturity teaches that it's impossible to be happy all of the time when it comes to reaching goals yet healthy is a choice that can be made on a daily basis (amen?).
If you have any PERSONAL QUESTIONS (please do not contact me with any story pitches; that is an *editorial* need), feel free to reach out at missnosipho@gmail.com. A sistah will certainly do what she can. ;)
How This New Bond Repair Line Transformed One Mother's Postpartum Shedding Into The Ultimate Curl Comeback
This article is in partnership with SheaMoisture
For Crystal Obasanya, her wash day woes came shortly after her son did. The beauty and lifestyle content creator had been natural for years, but during postpartum, she quickly learned about one reality many mothers can relate to experiencing: postpartum hair loss. “Sis had thinning hair. Sis had split ends,” she shared about her hair changes in a Reel via xoNecole.
Over a year into her postpartum journey, Crystal explained she also had dry, brittle hair, noting that keeping it hydrated before pregnancy had already been “a task.” The 4C natural recalled going from thick hair during pregnancy to a thin hairline due to postpartum shedding as “devastating.” When it came to strengthening and revitalizing her hair, the new SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection was just the thing she needed to elevate her damaged coils to revive and thrive status and get them poppin' again.
SheaMoisture is providing us with the cheat code for transforming dry and damaged strands into thriving and deeply nourished crowns. By unveiling their 4-step hair system, the SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection is equipping you with the tools to reverse signs of hair damage caused by protective styling, heat, and color and is uniquely formulated for Type 3 and 4 hair textures.
The haircare system revives damaged natural hair by repairing and rebuilding broken hair bonds through a game-changing combination of HydroPlex Technology and AminoBlend Complex, a unique blend of fortifying amino acids formulated specifically for curly and coily hair. Scientifically proven to reduce breakage by 84% and make your hair six times stronger (vs. non-conditioning shampoo), the collection infuses your hair with the nourishment it craves and the strength it deserves.
All five products of the SheaMoisture Bond Collection are infused with natural strengthening ingredients like Amla Oil and fair-trade shea butter. The collection consists of the 4-step breakage-fighting Bond Repair system, as well as the Bonding Oil.
“When trying it out, I quickly noticed that my hair felt revived and renewed, and my curls were so hydrated,” Crystal said while using the Amla-infused Bond Repair Leave-In Conditioner. “I also felt my hair strands were stronger.” So much so that the influencer felt brave enough to get her hair braided shortly thereafter. “I can definitely say that I will be keeping it in my hair wash routine,” she added in the caption of her Reel about her positive experience using the products.
SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection is making bond-building a key player in your wash day routines and the purveyor of life for thirsty manes. Because who doesn't want stronger, shinier, happier hair?
Step One: Bond Repair Collection Shampoo
Rejuvenate your hair with SheaMoisture Bond Repair Shampoo, your go-to solution for luscious locks. Packed with hella hydration power, this shampoo adds moisture by 60% while removing buildup without stripping your strands. This shampoo gently cleanses impurities while significantly enhancing shine, smoothness, and softness.
The Bond Repair Collection Shampoo is the first step in the 4-step Bond Repair system, all of which are powered by the uniquely formulated AminoBlend, and HydroPlex, SheaMoisture’s technology that rebuilds hair strength at its core.
Step Two: Bond Repair Collection Conditioner
Tailored to repair styling damage, this creamy conditioner locks in 12x more moisture than standard non-conditioning shampoos, boosting damaged hair strength by 1.5x with significantly less breakage. The creamy SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Conditioner deeply hydrates, enhances manageability, and leaves your hair looking healthier and shinier.
Step Three: Bond Repair Collection Masque
This Ultra Moisturizing reparative masque is a moisture-rich game-changer for those dealing with the aftermath of hair damage caused by styling. The SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Masque delivers 13 times more moisture compared to non-conditioning shampoos, ensuring your hair feels nourished and soft. Designed to repair and rejuvenate, this masque significantly strengthens damaged hair — making it twice as strong while reducing breakage.
Step Four: Bond Repair Collection Leave-In Conditioner
Elevate your curl game with SheaMoisture’s Bond Repair Collection Leave-In Conditioner. Lightweight and hydrating, the Bond Repair Leave-In Conditioner provides 12x more moisture than non-conditioning shampoos and tames frizz with 24-hour humidity control. Designed to define curls and coils, the leave-in conditioner enhances softness and shine allowing you to detangle effortlessly.
Bonding Oil
The SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Bonding Oil is a multitasking all-in-one formula that acts as a heat protectant and provides the hair with moisture, strength, shine, damage protection, and intense nourishment. This lightweight oil not only offers 24-hour frizz and humidity control but also fortifies your tresses, making them up to 5 times stronger with significantly less breakage.
Featured image courtesy
'ACross Generations With Tiffany Cross' Talks With Black Men About Safe Spaces & Their Love For Black Women
ACross Generations with Tiffany Cross, a podcast featuring intergenerational discussions on contemporary issues, has returned with an impactful episode exploring the challenges Black men face in America.
This week's show features host Tiffany Cross, Keith Dent, an entrepreneur, relationship coach, and author, alongside Isaiah Gaymon, a digital creator. The pair delved into various topics, including overcoming societal stereotypes, developing emotional intelligence, fostering platonic relationships, and navigating the complexities of modern dating.
A particularly engaging topic from the discussion was interracial dating and its prevalence in the Black community. According to a Pew Research Center study, Black men "are twice as likely" to participate in interracial marriages compared to Black women. The study also indicates that the higher a Black man's status or education level is, the more likely he is to marry a non-Black woman.
When Cross asked if the men had been in interracial relationships, Gaymon, who is married with children, revealed he had avoided dating white women. He explained this choice stemmed from his discomfort with being viewed as a fetish, a perception often rooted in stereotypes about Black men.
“Absolutely not. I want my family to be Black. The behaviors of white women I just don’t really favor,” he said.
As the conversation shifted to how Gaymon would react if a friend introduced a white woman to their social circle, the digital creator revealed he would question the dynamic to ensure all parties involved were entering the relationship for genuine reasons.
“I’m for sure asking questions. He must really like her,” he stated.
On the other hand, Dent has experience dating white women. The relationship coach, now married to a Black woman and father to adult children, explained that his environment and not being entirely accepted in the Black community influenced his past interracial dating.
“I would say yes… I went to a predominately white school,” he said. “Over time, I was seen as the nerd, but I was not seen as a part of the Black community.”
Following Dent's admission, Gaymon offered a counterpoint. He emphasized that many Black men deeply appreciate and value relationships with Black women, so much so that they are willing to be patient in their search for an ideal partner.
“There are Black men out here who love Black women. Who may take a longer time to find somebody [because] they haven’t found a Black woman that they want, but they won’t quit on that,” he stated.
For more on this topic and to explore other subjects discussed, the full episode of ACross Generations with Tiffany Cross is now available on the show's official YouTube channel.
Exploring the Emotions of Black Men With Keith Dent & Isaiah
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Feature image ACross Generations/ YouTube