Yoga is renowned for its health benefits, both physically and mentally. Beyond the calming, meditative aspects of the practice, yoga can also improve physical performance and health in men, including sexual function.
Sexual dysfunction can happen to men of any age, but physical exercises like yoga may help improve sexual function. Let’s look at some yoga poses that can help improve male sexual function.
1. Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
Dhanurasana, also known as the Bow Pose, strengthens the lower back and improves circulation to the pelvic area. It is particularly good for men with lower back pain.
To do this pose, lie on your stomach with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides. Bend your knees and reach your arms back to grab your ankles or feet. Inhale and lift your chest, legs, and arms off the ground, holding the pose for 15-20 seconds.
2. Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist Pose)
Ardha Matsyendrasana, or the Half Spinal Twist Pose, stretches the spine and helps to reduce tension in the lower back. By reducing stress in this area, circulation increases, which can help improve male sexual function.
To do this pose, sit with your legs out in front of you, bend your right leg and place your foot on the floor outside of your left knee. Twist to the right and place your left elbow on the outside of your right knee. Hold the pose for 15-30 seconds, breathing deeply.
3. Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
Paschimottanasana, or the Seated Forward Bend pose, gently stretches the hamstrings and lower back. This can help reduce tension in the pelvic area, which can improve sexual function. To do this pose, sit with your legs extended in front of you.
Reach forward and grab your toes, ankles, or shins, depending on your flexibility. Inhale deeply and lift your chest, then exhale and fold forward, bringing your forehead towards your knees. Hold the pose for 30 seconds.
4. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
Bhujangasana, also known as the Cobra Pose, stretches the chest, shoulders, and abdomen, while also increasing circulation to the pelvic area. This can help improve sexual function by reducing tension and increasing blood flow.
To do this pose, lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders and your elbows close to your body. Inhale and press your hands into the mat to lift your chest up, keeping your elbows close to your body. Hold the pose for 20-30 seconds, then release on an exhale.
5. Bitilasana/Marjaryasana (Cat-Cow Pose)
The Cat-Cow Pose, also known as Bitilasana/Marjaryasana, gently stretches the entire spine and helps to release tension from the lower back and pelvic area. This can help improve sexual function by increasing circulation to these areas.
To do this pose, get onto your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Inhale and lift your chest and tailbone, arching your spine into Cow Pose. Exhale and round your spine, bringing your chin to your chest, and curling your tailbone towards your knees in Cat Pose. Repeat for 5-10 rounds.
6. Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, or the Bridge Pose, strengthens the lower back and pelvic floor muscles. This can improve sexual function by increasing blood flow to these areas.
To do this pose, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your hips up towards the ceiling, squeezing your glutes and lifting your chest towards your chin. Hold the pose for 30 seconds.
7. Kumbhakasana (Plank Pose)
Kumbhakasana, or the Plank Pose, is an excellent pose for developing strength in the entire body. It also helps to tone the pelvic muscles, which can improve sexual function.
To do this pose, start in a push-up position, with your hands shoulder-width apart and your feet hip-width apart. Hold the pose with your body in a straight line from your head to your heels for 30 seconds.
8. Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose)
Vajrasana, also known as the Thunderbolt Pose, is a seated pose that helps to improve digestion and relieve stress. By reducing stress, this pose can help improve sexual function.
To do this pose, kneel down on the ground with your feet flat on the mat and your knees together. Sit back on your heels and rest your hands on your thighs, palms up. Breathe deeply and hold the pose for 5-10 minutes.
9. Ustrasana (Camel Pose)
Ustrasana, or the Camel Pose, opens up the chest and stretches the abdominal muscles. This can help to reduce tension in the pelvic area, which can improve sexual function.
To do this pose, kneel down on the mat with your feet flat and your knees hip-width apart. Place your hands on your hips and lift your chest, then slowly lean back, reaching your hands to your ankles or feet. Hold the pose for 20-30 seconds, breathing deeply.
10. Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby Pose)
Ananda Balasana, or the Happy Baby Pose, stretches the lower back and hamstrings, reducing tension in the pelvic area. This can improve sexual function by increasing blood flow and reducing stress.
To do this pose, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the mat. Bring your knees towards your chest, taking hold of the outsides of your feet with your hands. Gently rock from side to side, holding the pose for 30 seconds.
Conclusion
Adding these yoga poses to your exercise routine may help you improve your sexual function. By relieving tension, improving circulation, and strengthening the pelvic muscles, these poses can help you enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling sex life.
So why not give them a try?.