Lust instead of frustration: Simple exercises and tips to increase libido

The libido is the sexual desire - the natural drive - of the human being. A fulfilled sex life not only increases well-being, but also has positive effects on health. It varies from person to person and over the course of our lives it is quite normal that the desire will be stronger and weaker at times.

While some people have high libido and lead active sex lives, others have lower libido and less sexual desire. Many factors can influence our sense of pleasure. These include stress, health problems or the fading of passion due to everyday relationships.

People with low sex drives are more likely to have thoughts like: Am I normal? For others, that doesn't seem to be the case.
Don't fear! YES, it's normal and NO, you're not alone. Sexuality is a topic that is often taboo. And especially when things don't work out or you don't feel like it. Because nobody wants to be labelled as a wallflower. It is as natural as going to the toilet or poppy seeds between your teeth.

Anyone who is seriously concerned about their libido should still consult a gynecologist or urologist. We've collected a few tips and simple exercises to increase libido.

Regular exercise is not only good for physical fitness, but also for our libido. Physical activity promotes blood circulation in the body and thus also in the genital organs. In addition, during physical activity, the hormone testosterone is released, which increases sexual desire.
Dancing, in particular, can help improve blood flow throughout the body and increase sexual desire. Move to the music and let go of your inhibitions. Dance alone or with your partner for a sensual experience. By the way, dancing improves coordination and mobility, which has a positive effect on sex life.

Stress and hectic pace can cause libido to decrease. Therefore, it is important to regularly take time to relax. Relaxation exercises such as yoga or meditation not only help to reduce stress, but also increase the desire for sex. Two Yoga Poses for Improved Libido:

The Cobra (Bhujangasana)

Cobra pose is a yoga pose that increases blood flow to the pelvic area and may increase sexual sensitivity. The core - the so-called torso - is strengthened and mobility in the back is improved.

• Lie face down on a yoga mat.
• Place your palms next to your shoulders. Inhale and slowly raise your upper body. The head is in extension of the spine, the shoulders stay down and do not pull towards the ears. If you have problems with your neck, look ahead. Otherwise you can slowly tilt your head back and look at the ceiling.
• Hold the pose for about 10-15 seconds while continuing to breathe normally.
• Exhale and slowly lower your upper body vertebra by vertebra.
• Repeat the cobra a total of 5-10 times, performing the exercise regularly.

The Queen of the Frogs (Malasana)

This exercise strengthens the hips and abdominal muscles. It also increases pelvic energy and libido.

• Start in an upright position and place your feet hip-width apart.
• Bring your hands together in front of your torso in a prayer position and slowly lower yourself into a deep squat. The weight is evenly distributed on the feet.
• The arms remain in the prayer position. The elbows press on the inner thighs, the chest rises and the shoulders pull back slightly. The back should be kept straight. Drop deep into this position.
• Now stay in this position for 5 deep breaths and feel the grounding effect. Repeat this exercise regularly.

Tantric breathing exercises are a form of meditation and combine Karmamudra (Vajrayana Buddhist technique) with special breathing techniques for the sex chakra. The exercise aims to expand awareness and activate the energy in the body. The body is supplied with oxygen and the energy circulation is properly boosted. This not only has a positive effect on the libido, but on the entire body.

• Find a quiet place to do the exercise. You should be able to completely relax there. So avoid disturbing background noise and it is best to turn off your phone.
• Sit or lie down comfortably.
• Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Breathe deeply and slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth.
• Imagine your breath flowing through your body and entering your genital areas. Visualize your sexual energy rising through breathing and relaxing.
• Keep breathing slowly and deeply and focus on the sensations in your body. Feel further into yourself.
• Repeat this exercise daily for 10-15 minutes. The more you practice this exercise, the better you will be able to increase and control your sexual energy.

The pelvic floor is a muscle group responsible for bladder control, bowel movements, and also for strong erections and orgasms. It also supports the internal organs and enables an upright posture. Pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen this muscle area, thereby increasing sexual sensitivity and desire .

• Find the Pelvic Floor Muscles: Imagine having to stop the stream of urine or contract the anus. The muscles that you contract are your pelvic floor muscles.
• Tighten the muscles: contract the muscles for about 5 seconds and hold the tension. Be careful not to tense any other muscles, such as your glutes. Breathe in and out normally.
• Relax the muscles: slowly release the tension. Now let the muscles relax for 5 seconds before repeating the exercise for another 10-15 times. Do the exercise regularly.

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian holistic healing system based on a harmonious balance of body, mind and soul. It attaches great importance to the prevention of diseases and the promotion of health through an individual, balanced lifestyle. The 4 pillars of Ayurveda are nutrition, exercise, regular detoxification and careful handling of our thoughts and spirit.

Shatavari and Ashwagandha are two herbs used in Ayurveda to increase libido. Shatavari is very popular as a medicinal plant, especially for women. It is an adaptogenic herb that can balance hormone levels and is used specifically in women as an aphrodisiac and to increase fertility. Shatavari increases sexual energy and desire naturally.

Ashwagandha, also known as "sleeping berry", not only has a positive influence on our libido. It has a calming effect, helps you fall asleep and strengthens the nervous system. It also balances our hormones, which promotes sexual health. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that can increase overall vitality and energy.

Photos: Shutterstock