More and more people are becoming sexually active in their “third youth,” found Dr. David Weeks, the lead scientist in a study focusing on sex life after the 1960s. He draws attention to the fact that in addition to pure pleasure, sex also brings health benefits. First of all, a fact that few can deny stands out: sex makes people happier. This small factor is significant in assessing one’s own emotional and mental health. Sexual abstinence – abstinence from sex has been proven to lead to anxiety and depression. Research from Queens University in Belfast points to other pluses: sexual activity leads to the release of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. In addition to reducing physical pain, they are also partly responsible for the mental-calming, stress- and blood-pressure-lowering properties of intercourse. The sexual act itself improves blood circulation, which delivers more oxygen to the skin and eliminates accumulated toxins faster and stimulates collagen synthesis. These influences give the skin a fresher and tighter look, reduce the formation of wrinkles. NEWS_MORE_BOX Dr. Weeks says that the quality of sexual contact even matters for cardiovascular disease. According to a 1997 study, the risk of a fatal heart attack was more than 50% lower in individuals over 60 who reached orgasm two or more times a week. According to psychologists on Dr. Weeks’ team, sexuality is not something that should only be associated with youth. Sexual satisfaction is a key factor in quality of life, ranking statistically in importance alongside religious beliefs, financial stability and social status.