The most obvious physical health benefit is exercise. While sexual activity can in no way replace a scheduled workout, it is a good way to get your limbs, heart, and muscles moving first thing in the morning. Although the calories burned during this pleasurable activity might be minuscule (five calories a minute, per Harvard Health Publishing), at the very least, you’re getting a cardiovascular workout. “Regular sexual activity is good for your heart rate, blood pressure, and circulation. These processes keep your body healthy and release toxins and pent up tension in the body,” according to Los Angeles-based psychologist and sex therapist Shannon Chavez (via HuffPost).
Some research has also been done on how sex can boost your immune system, although experts aren’t convinced this can result in any substantial protection against disease during the day. More data is likely needed on this particular health benefit for men.
As for mental health benefits, sex is known to release a host of feel-good chemicals, all of which can help with starting the day off on the right foot. “Sex releases endorphins such as dopamine and serotonin, which improve your happiness and help you relax,” explained certified sex educator and sexologist Suzannah Weiss (via Well+Good). Dopamine is a neurotransmitter connected to productivity, learning, and motivation as well. All of these can help you at work and with any other responsibilities you need to tackle during the day.