Generally, you might think that nighttime is the right time for sex. With the stresses of the day behind you — not to mention the natural mood lighting of sunset, or a moonlit sky — getting down before getting to sleep, whether on your own or with a partner, is a great way to close out a good day (or even a nice way to add a silver lining to a day that didn’t quite go as planned).
But there’s no reason to reserve intimacy for after sundown. Just as nighttime sex is an excellent way to close out the day, morning sex is a perfect wake-up call. Not only is sexual activity in the morning enjoyable and invigorating, it can also help provide an added cognitive boost, help spike your energy, and even improve your mood, all before you get out of bed. Plus, some studies have shown that sex can actually be more enjoyable in the morning.
Here, we take a look at why you should consider getting down before you get up, and offer some tips on how to make the most of your pre-coffee cuddles.
Night time might not be the right time (for your hormones)
According to some research, testosterone levels — in both men and women — are highest in the morning. Testosterone has a strong influence on sex drive, regardless of gender, so engaging in sexual activity when this hormone is at its peak may result in a better, longer, and more enjoyable session. Because of a spike in testosterone, you may experience heightened genital sensitivity, which can result in both stronger erections in those who have penises, and more intense overall sensation and orgasms for, well, anybody.
Beat the blues
Regardless of time of day, sexual activity in general — and orgasms in particular — is a natural mood-booster: your brain produces oxytocin, also known as “the love hormone,” when you touch others, which leads to increased feelings of wellbeing and calm. Having sex in the morning can help you start your day on a positive note by helping your brain produce an early-morning dose of oxytocin. You might find this particularly helpful in the winter months, as shorter days and fewer hours of sunlight may have you feeling sluggish, or if you suffer from seasonal affective disorder.
Early-morning endorphin release
Yes, sex is exercise! On average, you burn between 69-101 calories during partnered sex and, while this might not seem like a lot, any activity that gets your heart rate up helps to release endorphins, which helps to boost your overall mood. Plus, warming up with the moderate exercise provided by sex might make you more likely (or maybe more eager!) to jump into your morning workout routine, whether that means going for a light jog, doing a few downward dogs, or simply engaging in some stimulating dynamic stretching following your romp in the hay.
The sooner you start, the longer you (may) last
Not only does a spike in testosterone levels make you more stimulated, some studies have shown that it can also help those who have penises maintain longer, stronger erections. Of course, there might not be time first thing in the morning for a prolonged sex session (we’ll get to that later) — and there’s nothing wrong with a quickie! — but you might want to come up with an excuse for logging into your first Zoom meeting of the day a little late, just in case.
Boost your brain-power
For many, a strong cup of coffee (or two) first thing in the morning is all it takes to muster the alertness and concentration needed to take on the tasks of the day. And while we’re not suggesting you skip your cup of joe altogether, starting your day with a bit of sexual stimulation may provide an unexpected spike in cognition thanks to the release of feel-good hormones, like dopamine, which have been shown to increase and improve brain function.
Afterglow: activate!
Yes, it’s true: you might actually look better after you have sex! When you engage in any sexual activity, those feel-good hormones — which include the aforementioned oxytocin, as well as oxytocin, beta-endorphins and other anti-inflammatory molecules — are released, which can benefit your skin and bone health in the long run. So not only can sex make you feel good, but it can help you look your best. (Just be sure to fix any bedhead before logging in to your first video call of the day!)
How to have great morning sex — with a partner, or on your own
Getting all the benefits of morning sex may be as easy as reaching for your favourite vibe or stroker as soon as your alarm goes off, or cuddling a little closer to your partner as they wake up beside you. But for those with early-morning start times, a.m. routines that involve hitting the gym or going for a regular jog, or those who have kids who need help getting ready for school, some planning may be required! And even if time is 100% on your side, there are some ways to make sure your sunrise session is as pleasurable as possible:
1. Timing is everything
If you’re often strapped for time in the morning, an hourlong pleasure sesh may not be in the cards. You might want to set your alarm a half hour early to make sure you aren’t rushing through your morning romp. You could also consider a toy known for, ahem, getting the job done quickly, like a clitoral suction vibrator or a hands-free stroker.
2. Get wet
If time is still an issue, why not let your morning shower do double duty? Shower sex is a sexy, steamy way to start your day with your partner, and there are plenty of dildos, vibrators, and strokers that are completely waterproof — perfect for a sensual sudsy start to your day.
3. Keep it simple...
The crack of dawn might not be the best time to go for a super-athletic sexual position. Try starting slow and simple, by spooning with your partner, allowing them to penetrate you from behind with a toy, their fingers, or their penis. (All the better if you wake up spooning a partner!)
If you’re using a toy, stick to something without too many bells and whistles, like a classic rabbit or bullet vibe, or a pocket stroker. (Try to remember to charge your toy before bed, too, and keep it somewhere that you can easily access first thing in the morning, like in or on your bedside table.)
4. ...or don’t
Remember what we said about sex being exercise? If you have the time (and the energy), getting a little sweaty with a partner first thing in the morning is a great way to burn some calories, get those endorphins flowing, and share an incredibly pleasurable wake-up. Doggy-style, stand-up sex, and, yes, plain ol’ missionary can be great ways to get your heart racing and your toes curling before you start your day.
5. Have fun with it
Remember: whether it’s solo sex or a partnered, pre-java romp, engaging in some stimulating sexual pleasure in the morning is an enjoyable way to get your day (and yourself) off to a great start. Relax, do your best to forget about whatever stresses and tasks may be ahead of you during the day, and enjoy.
