It’s hard to talk about overall wellness without at least a small, tasteful nod to intimacy. Physical closeness is a key part of healthy relationships, and it’s deeply connected to overall health. Research shows that adults who enjoy satisfying intimacy tend to have lower levels of depression and anxiety, higher life satisfaction, and a greater sense of wellbeing. 

So, what are the biggest factors that influence wellness in the bedroom? 

1. Stress: The Desire Killer 

Chronic stress is one of the biggest obstacles to connection, no matter your age. It drains your energy, affects hormones, and can quietly sabotage desire: high cortisol levels reduce blood flow, lower energy, and even suppress testosterone and estrogen. Over time, this can make intimacy feel harder to reach and emotional closeness more distant. 

Practical ways to manage stress: 

• Mind-body approaches that fit your life: Simple practices like journaling, mindful breathing, or even slow, intentional household tasks can help manage everyday stress. 

• Structured routines and lifestyle adjustments: Keeping regular schedules for meals, sleep, and activity helps your nervous system stay balanced. And if it ever feels like there’s too much on your plate, consider trimming commitments or carving out time for rest and fun—your body and mind will thank you. 

• Social and emotional support: Sharing your concerns with friends, family, or support groups can lower cortisol and boost connection. For ongoing or high-level stress, working with a therapist or other qualified professional can provide practical, long-term strategies. 

2. Poor Sleep: A Source of “Not Tonight” 

A lack of sleep destroys more than just your energy levels, it also tied to dipping hormones, and mood, all of which play a role in intimacy. Adults who get less than 6–7 hours of sleep a night often notice lower libido and more fatigue. Poor sleep affect the neurotransmitters that regulate mood: lower serotonin and dopamine can leave you feeling irritable, unmotivated, or less emotionally present. 

Practical ways to support sleep: 

• Create your own sleep routine: Stick to a regular bedtime, dim the lights, and step away from screens an hour before bed. Make your sleep space inviting (cool, dark, and comfy) and find little rituals that help you relax. The consistency will train your body to drift off more easily. 

• Move each day: Even gentle activities like walking, swimming, or stretching helps circulation, lifts mood, and naturally signals your body that it’s time to wind down. 

• Supportive supplements: Certain nutrients can help your body relax and maintain healthy sleep cycles. Magnesium can calm the nervous system and relax muscles. B vitamins help produce serotonin and dopamine, which signal when it’s time to sleep. Omega-3 fatty acids support hormone balance and reduce inflammation, helping you get restorative rest. 

3. Hormone Changes: More Than Just a Teen Thing 

Hormones affect energy, mood, and overall vitality, and even small changes can influence libido and emotional connection. As we age, testosterone and estrogen naturally decline, and thyroid or adrenal hormones can fluctuate, affecting energy, mood, and how well we handle stress. 

Practical ways to support hormones: 

• Nutrition for Hormones: Foods rich in zinc, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids help support hormone production, circulation, and immune health. These nutrients also influence energy, mood, and overall vitality, all of which can subtly impact libido and emotional closeness. 

• Traditional Herbal Support: Traditional herbs like maca root, ginseng, and tongkat ali have been studied for their effects on stamina, energy, and desire. Used alongside healthy habits, they can support hormone balance in a gentle, holistic way. 

• Professional guidance with a Naturopath: Hormone needs vary from person to person. Consulting a naturopathic doctor or qualified healthcare professional can be valuable – they can order hormone panels, interpret results, and help create a plan with nutrition, lifestyle, and safe supplementation tailored to you. 

The foundation for great connection begins with the everyday choices you make. By nurturing your body and mind through restful sleep, balanced nutrition, stress management, and gentle movement, you set the stage for more energy, vitality, and emotional closeness. 

Wellness is all the little things you do every day that let intimacy, joy, and connection flourish.