Riddles, word searches, the Sunday crossword puzzle, and sex. What do all of these things have in common? They are all excellent for your brain! Now the crossword in the Sunday Times doesn't hit the spot quite like a roll in the hay, but they both benefit your brain. Popstar is back with the tips (and not just the tip) on how knocking boots can help your brain. Sex can have a profoundly positive impact on your brain function, mood, and overall well-being! Let's dive into the connection between sex and your brain!

No need for a trigger warning. Sex triggers the release of chemicals in the brain that improve your mood and decrease stress. When you orgasm, your body releases a cocktail of neurotransmitters like dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins. So forget espresso martinis, cosmopolitans, and Aperol spritzes; the drink of the summer is the orgasm. This concoction of neurotransmitters can make you feel happy and relaxed. Perhaps this is what Beyonce was referring to when she sang "Drunk In Love."

We aren't talking about Toni Braxton's B-tracks here; we are talking about blood flow. Sex stimulates blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function, memory function, and overall brain health. Some studies have shown that increased blood flow to the brain may stimulate the growth of new brain cells, but research on this topic is limited. If you are someone who has a Finding Dory-like memory, then maybe you need to make more time to fornicate and get the blood flowing! 

If you are someone who deals with summertime sadness, then sex may be the answer. When we have sex, our brains release oxytocin, the love hormone, which helps to lower anxiety. Of course, sex isn't a cure-all and shouldn't replace other forms of therapy or treatment, but sex can be another fun, easy way to reduce anxiety and depression.

Have you ever noticed that you love your partner's scent during and after sex? A benefit of sex that many people aren't aware of is its effect on your sense of smell. Sex can heighten and improve your sense of smell by increasing levels of the hormone estradiol. Estradiol has been shown to enhance odor sensitivity which can help partners bond more closely with one another by creating a stronger emotional connection.

We all know that when it is cold and flu season, we need to increase our intake of vitamin C, but we really should be making sure we are getting (or administering) plenty of vitamin D. Sex can help to boost your immune system and improve your overall physical health. For example, having an active sex life can improve cardiovascular health as well as help your body reduce inflammation and fight off infections. 

Whatever you want to call it: knocking boots, rolling in the hay, shaking sheets, or making love. Sex doesn't only feel good; it is good for your body.