13 simple tips for seriously better sex

Never in the mood? These surprising secrets will have you craving more

Can you remember the last time you couldn’t wait to get home and shimmy between the sheets?

Was it last week, last month? Last... year? We get it: Sometimes it’s easier to give into your excuses — I’m too tired, let’s just do it this weekend, it doesn’t even feel that great to begin with. But we don’t need to tell you that sex is essential for a healthy marriage — and also a healthy you. Research shows that a happy sex life can stamp out stress, reduce heart disease risk, and even improve immunity. But enough of the non-sexy talk. Try just one of these libido-lifting tricks today. You can thank us later.

1. Take a lunchtime stroll
Research shows that the more fit you are, the more sex you’ll crave.
In a study of women ages 45 to 55, sexual satisfaction correlated directly to fitness. "The less exercise they got, the lower their desire and sexual satisfaction," says study author Judith R. Gerber, PhD, a psychologist at the University of Vermont College of Medicine.

2. Book a rubdown
A pampering massage not only relieves stress... but "the skin-on-skin contact stimulates the sex hormone oxytocin," says Ian Kerner, PhD, author of "She Comes First."

"The more oxytocin released, the more desire a woman will feel." If you don’t want to spring for a full hour-plus session (which can cost $100 or more), tack on a 10-minute session at the nail salon after a manicure. Read more >>