Timing, as the saying goes, is everything. And when it comes
to the human body, this couldn’t be truer.
Our ups and downs over a 24-hour period are ruled by our
‘circadian rhythms’ — that is the fluctuations in our hormones, body
temperature and blood pressure, all of which govern both our mood and energy
levels.
Now, a growing body of scientific research is proving just
how significant timing is to our daily emotions, needs and abilities.
Scientists say that male and female sex drives peak at
different times of day, and that there is only a small window when both
partners are truly in the mood.
Men’s levels of the sex hormone, testosterone, surge during
the night, when they are around 25 to 50 per cent higher than normal.
“This is because the pituitary gland, which governs its
production, automatically switches on overnight,” scientists say.
A woman, by contrast, has to fight high levels of melatonin
(the sleep hormone) in her blood.
Of course, women also have testosterone in their bodies,
which boosts sexual desire.
Indeed, a recent study published in the British Medical
Journal found that sunlight boosts testosterone by stimulating the hypothalamus
(the part of the brain responsible for hormone production). So, the rising sun
gets both men and women in the mood.
“Testosterone levels in men and women are highest in the
morning,” says sex therapist Geraldine Myers.
“The energy levels of both are highest, too. Mentally, they
are less occupied with life’s demands, so it’s the perfect time (for sex).”
As for the exact time most suitable for lovemaking, experts
pinpoint 5.48am as the best time for sex.
This is also when couples are most likely to reach orgasm,
according to another research by Italian scientists.
The bottom line: Set that alarm.
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