How does stress affect sexual desire?

Stress is perhaps the number one culprit in low sexual desire. We're all running around with more things to do than there are hours in the day, leaving ourselves feeling exhausted and often frustrated. Too much stress often saps away a person's libido by affecting hormones and mood and by interfering with the quality time that helps a couple stay connected.

One of the keys to boosting libido is to have a more balanced life -- in all ways. It's not just the big stresses, such as financial worries or losing a loved one, that contribute to low desire. It's also the small, daily stresses. Running late, trying to fit too much into a day, not eating right, and constantly bickering with your partner all can affect your sexual energy. Simple changes can make a big difference: You should get enough sleep, eat right, exercise, and manage your time smartly. If you can restructure your daily life to feel more manageable, your sex life and your relationship will benefit -- and the effects will increase as you continue a more balanced life.