This is the other primary thing that the bedroom should be used for (as if you didn’t know). Having an orgasm can be like a full-on sedative for most people. Research shows that during orgasm, both women and men release a cocktail of chemicals, including norepinephrine, serotonin, oxytocin, vasopressin, and the pituitary hormone prolactin.

Oxytocin, for example, triggers a cascade of bodily events including the release of other feel-good hormones called endorphins. This rush of endorphins and relaxing hormones when you release can be just the thing to set you up for a great night’s sleep.

But, the proof is in the pudding, right? Even though most of us know that orgasm can induce sleep, are people actually using this to their advantage?

First off all, keep in mind that you don’t need anyone else to do this (so single people, don’t be worried.) But, if you do have a lover in your life, then don’t hold back because the effects can really benefit the both of you.

It’s well established that a big component of insomnia is stress. If you’re really stressed out, it can make it more difficult to fall asleep. Well, in the year 2000, a study was conducted with 2,632 women and found that 39 percent of those who masturbate reported that they do it in order to relax. Serotonin and oxytocin released during orgasm are two built-in, natural stress reducers.

With a sexual partner, it was found that men produced four times more prolactin when having an orgasm through intercourse when compared to masturbation. Prolactin is a hormone that’s linked to sexual satisfaction, and it’s also heavily related to sleep. Studies show that prolactin levels are naturally higher during sleep, and animals injected with the chemical become tired immediately.

Studies clearly demonstrate that plasma prolactin concentrations are substantially increased for over an hour following orgasm for both men and women. With that said, we can finally understand why sex is sometimes referred to as “sleeping” with someone.

Sex and orgasm have many benefits that go far beyond the realm of sleep. From boosting the immune system, to fighting depression, to actually helping you to live a longer life. Our ability to have and give orgasms is tightly linked to our health and well-being.

And just to be clear again on why this is so effective, the brain is actually the largest sex organ because of the vital role it plays in sexual arousal (whoever said size doesn’t matter?). Cultivating your brain-body connection is critical to a fulfilling sex life and getting the best sleep ever.

Be responsible, have fun, and enjoy the benefits that the big “O” can have in your life.

The Big “O” Power Tip #1

In all honesty, communication is key in this area. Everyone is different, and what satisfies one person might not do a thing for another. Find out what your lover likes and find out what you like. Share this info with them because being a clairvoyant is not on most of our résumés.

Share with your partner what turns you on, and what takes you over the top. I promise you that this data will be valuable to you both.

The Big “O” Power Tip #2

Get physical. An obvious aspect of sex’s impact on sleep is the physical exertion involved. When you put in some work bumpin’ and grindin’, you’ll naturally feel more fatigued after the session is over. You don’t have to just lay there most of the time all vanilla-ice-cream style. Move around, get involved, and put your back into it. Lying back and receiving is super fine as well, but if you want to earn your sleep black belt then you’ve got to put some work in too.