Aussies have sex to de-stress

Aussie couples are having sex to de-stress. Photo / Thinkstock

Australians are going under cover this Christmas to handle stress, with many using sex as a way to relax.

More than one in three Aussies believe sex is a fantastic way to de-stress, a new survey shows.

The national Bupa Stress Survey 2011 has found men aged 45 and above and women 35 or below are the biggest advocates of the stress-relieving benefits of sex.

Stan Goldstein, Bupa's head of clinical advisory, says it's not surprising Aussies are finding the calming effects of sex a welcome relief around this hectic time of year.

"There are many heightened expectations (around Christmas) from family, as well as time and financial pressures," Mr Goldstein says.

"It's important to find appropriate strategies or outlets to help manage stress, rather than letting it build up and potentially overwhelm you."

He says the release of endorphins during sex as well as the physical intimacy can have a significant impact on stress levels.

However the bedroom need not be the only avenue for stress relief this Christmas, Mr Goldstein says.

Couples should try to get quality sleep, be honest with each other, not expect perfection over the holidays and remember to always have fun.

- AAP