By Dr J.V. Wright

Before you resort to pills, patches, or creams – whether natural or synthetic – there's a simple, effective, proven way to improve your libido. Exercise.
 
Think of all the things we already know exercise can accomplish for your body: Improved blood flow and circulation, better muscle strength and tone, increased flexibility, improved cardiac endurance and function, lower stress levels. It doesn't take a genius, or even a scientist, to figure out that every benefit of exercise can also have a positive impact on your sex life. Not to mention the only "side effects" of exercise are better health, and the occasional sore muscle.

One of the biggest barriers to sexual function, particularly in women, is stress and fatigue. Exercise has been shown effective in relieving both these conditions. Endorphins combat the "stress hormone" cortisol and help promote an overall feeling of well being. Studies have also shown that getting in better shape promotes a healthier body image, which in turn can increase your feelings of desirability.

Exercise also naturally increases your body's own production of testosterone, which is the primary hormone driving libido in both men and women.
 
So if you've been meaning to start an exercise program but just haven't found the motivation, perhaps the lure of an improved sex life will do the trick. You don't need to go into Olympic training to get the benefit – in fact, heavy exercise can decrease testosterone levels. But just 10 to 30 minutes a day of moderate to strenuous exercise, along with some stretching and deep breathing, ought to be enough to help you see an improvement.