Here’s why and how it will help your relationship.

Yes, we know–sometimes you’d rather do just about anything than have sex (watch TV, read a book, get a root canal…). A relationship expert tells why you should Just Say Yes anyway.

Scenario: You’re tired, cranky, and PMSing so badly you have cankles the size of cantaloupes. Then, just when you’re feeling your most ugly (inside and out), your partner gives you his “I Want Sex Now!” look. Should you smack him? Au contraire. Instead of beating him, you should join him. Dr. Jane Greer, a marriage and family therapist in New York City and host of the radio show Doctor On Call, reveals the not-so-hidden benefits of having sex when you don’t feel like it.

Benefit number 1: You just may end up having some really, really great sex. “Who knows–his excitement might ignite yours,” says Greer. “Just relax and go with it.”

Benefit number 2: You’ll strengthen your bond. “Sex is about intimacy,” says Greer. “Look at it this way: You’re keeping your husband company. You know how sometimes one of you sees a movie the other one isn’t really interested in? Same thing–you’re sharing an activity.”

Benefit number 3: It strengthens your immune system and enhances overall health. “Sex causes feel-good endorphins to be released in your body,” notes Greer. “Endorphins decrease stress and help you feel calmer.”

Benefit number 4: You’ll burn a few calories. “Even if you only burn 10, at least that’s a piece of candy!” says Greer.

Benefit number 5: You can use it as blackmail down the road. “You may not be into having sex this time, but chances are that some night in the future, you’ll be in the mood when he isn’t,” says Greer. “Then it will be his turn to compromise–it’s a two-way street.” (Yes, payback’s a bitch.)

November 24th, 2008