• Facial Tingling: Causes, Diagnosis, Natural Treatment

    by Mahesh Karandikar, MD – Neurosurgeon

     July 11, 2019

     0

    A sudden tingling sensation overtaking your hands, feet, or face is a fairly common complaint reported by people in the United States. It may be a result of either sleeping for prolonged hours on either of your limbs or sitting in the same position when reading or writing.

    Medically termed as paresthesia, a tingling sensation is usually an outcome of trauma or injury to the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The PNS is a component of the nervous system that connects the brain to the various organs of the body through a network of nerve fibers. It transmits information back and forth in the form of nerve impulses or signals.

    When a nerve is pinched or compressed, the transfer of signals may be delayed, slowed, or hampered, affecting the brain’s capacity to interpret signals and send back responses. In order to cope with this phenomenon, the brain responds by associating the sensation to numbness and tingling. These are the first symptoms of a nerve injury.

    face tingling (paresthesia)

    A mild or temporary tingling marked by a “feeling of pins and needles” can be relieved as soon as the pressure on the associated nerve is relieved. In cases of transient paresthesia, usually caused by a mild nerve compression, the symptoms resolve on their own.

    Tingling and sensory problems are common in patients suffering from neurological disorders, chronic painful conditions such as fibromyalgia, and other diseases, complicating the diagnosis at times. However, there is partial clarity in cases of facial tingling.

    In nearly all facial injuries, the trigeminal nerve is mechanically compressed, stretched, or inflamed.[1] Facial tingling affects the facial skin region as a numb tingling or a skin crawling feeling often coming without pain in the initial stages. If the predominant symptom is facial pain, then the disorder is called trigeminal neuralgia, a relatively well-characterized neurological disorder of the trigeminal nerve.[6]

    Contents

    What Can Cause Facial Tingling?

    Facial tingling is not a disease per se but a symptom of diseases inflicting the nerve or nerve function.

    It may be caused by:

    • A psychiatric disease
    • Damage inflicted on the upper spinal cord or posterior part of the brain stem
    • Dehydration around 5–6 percent
    • Improper circulation of blood
    • Vitamin B6 deficiency
    • Individuals receiving chronic hemodialysis
    • Malnutrition in chronic alcoholics
    • Pregnancy or lactation
    • Medications such as penicillamine, isoniazid, or phenelzine
    • Medical conditions related to the nervous system such as:
      • Stroke
      • Transverse myelitis
      • Encephalitis
      • Injury to the dental and facial region
      • Compression of the trigeminal nerve
      • Sarcoidosis
      • Autoimmune disorder
      • A tumor or vascular lesion putting pressure on the brain or spinal cord

    What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Facial Tingling?

    Facial tingling is marked by a characteristic numbness and tingling sensation on the face. It may also be accompanied by:

    • Skin sensitivity over the affected facial region
    • At times, pain

    How Is Facial Tingling Diagnosed?

    Evaluating a patient’s medical history is of utmost importance to ascertain the exact problem. Several patients may interpret the loss of sensitivity or any other neurological damage as a case of tingling.

    The objective here is to determine the areas with reduced or lost sensations and the perimeters surrounding the affected facial region suggesting nerve damage on a particular point.

    Your doctor may prescribe either of the following to ascertain the exact cause:

    • MRI or CT scan if the suspected cause is a stroke
    • Blood tests if an underlying illness is the cause
    • A referral to a psychiatrist if the cause is psychiatric in nature

    What Is the Medical Treatment for Facial Tingling?

    The treatment for paresthesia will solely rely on diagnosing the cause of your condition.

    Mild conditions are generally harmless, involving little or no pain, and tend to resolve spontaneously. However, patients with severe conditions riddled with pain need to seek professional help. The consultant neurologist may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce the tingling sensation.

    If severe anxiety, panic attacks, or a psychiatric cause is behind the tingling sensation in your face, your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional.

    Natural Ways to Reduce Facial Tingling

    Facial Tingling

    Let’s take a look at the natural ways to help you brave through the tingling sensation in your face.

    1. Try Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focused on sensory training can help the affected patient understand the alterations in the nerve impulses being transmitted.

    Sensory reeducation can help the patient relearn his touch perceptions in the case of facial tingling. This form of CBT educates the senses to make out the difference between the moving touch sensation and constant touch sensation. It also helps the patient evaluate the location of the touch on the affected skin.[1] However, the stimulus to trigger the touch perceptions must never be so intense as to inflict pain.

    2. Practice Mindfulness Meditation

    Mindfulness meditation combines the attentiveness of meditation with the self-contemplation of the present.

    Practicing mindfulness meditation captures your attention in the present, opening the door to consciousness, sensation, your ambiance, acceptance, and being forthright without any room for judgmental thoughts. This will help calm your mind in the process, by combating stress and stimulating the relaxation response of your body.

    Mindfulness-based interventions can help relieve the perceptions of pain and also reduce the symptoms of depression in individuals suffering from chronic conditions.[4]

    Although there is no direct link between facial tingling and meditation therapies, practicing mindfulness meditation can help manage stress and depression, two of the causes of facial tingling.

    3. Consider Vitamin B6 Supplements

    A deficiency in vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is associated with nerve damage and tingling, which can be remedied with its supplementation.

    The dietary supplementation of pyridoxine is imperative because of the body’s inherent inability to synthesize it. Although our dietary intake is sufficient to cater to our vitamin B6 needs and its deficiency is rare, some individuals are prone to a deficiency of vitamin B6.  Adult individuals deficient in vitamin B6 may experience tingling in the hands, legs, and eventually the face.[5]

    • Consider taking vitamin B6 supplements upon your doctor’s approval.

    4. Drink Turmeric Milk

    Turmeric is bestowed with a polyphenol called curcumin that can help resolve facial tingling due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

    Peripheral nerve damage is initially manifested in the sensory fibers and experienced as pain and tingling. As the nerve fibers are injured, various biological processes come into force and the damage appears in the form of pain, tingling, and numbness. Oxidative stress and inflammation are among the many processes that contribute to nerve damage.

    A study has highlighted the supplementation of an adjunct treatment containing turmeric with alpha-lipoic acid to reduce the numbness, pain, and tingling experienced in peripheral neuropathy.[2]

    The anti-inflammatory nature of the bioactive ingredient curcumin can help reduce the production of molecules that trigger inflammation. Its antioxidant activity can help combat the oxidative stress that causes the pain, tingling, and numbness in the mechanically compressed nerves.

    1. Add ½ to 1-inch piece of turmeric to a pan.
    2. Add 8 ounces of milk to the pan containing turmeric.
    3. Let the mixture boil for about 15 minutes.
    4. Strain the milk and drink 1 cup of it daily.

    5. Take Ginkgo Biloba Extract

    Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) has been accredited with antioxidant and neuroprotective activities that can help fight oxidative stress and reduce nerve damage.

    Its medicinal value stems from its ability to prevent oxidation-induced injuries and its positive effects on nerve regeneration, cerebral insufficiency, and peripheral vascular disease.

    A study has demonstrated the effects of GBE on the numbness and tingling sensation associated with a compressed nerve. The results highlighted that GBE could inhibit the paresthesias and also facilitate the recovery process for motor function after an injury to the facial nerve.[3]

    • The recommended intake of GBE for adults is 120–240 milligrams a day.

    Complications

    Tingling has been associated with many diseases. Prolonged tingling in the face can lead to severe complications. Appropriate treatment is required to reduce any potential risks:

    • Brain damage, if the cause of your tingling is a stroke
    • Paralysis
    • Permanent nerve damage

    When to See a Doctor

    There are varied reasons that can cause a tingling sensation in your face. Consider getting an opinion from a neurologist if you experience:

    • A sudden appearance of the tingling sensation
    • Tingling that is restricted to one side of the body
    • Persistent tingling sensation

    These might be signs of an impending stroke.

    Prolonged tingling can be a harbinger of other medical conditions, which may be a serious cause of concern. It is important to seek the opinion of a medical professional if symptoms persist beyond minutes.

    End Note

    Facial tingling most often appears as an aftermath of an injury or trauma to the trigeminal nerve. There are several causes that can induce facial tingling and must be addressed accordingly.

    Mild cases can be overcome on their own. However, seek immediate medical evaluation in case of prolonged loss of sensation to avoid any adverse consequences.

    Trying CBT and practicing mindful meditation can help refurbish your sensory judgments and reduce the tingling sensation in your face.

    FOR MORE HOME CURES https://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/facial-tingling.html

    Resources:

    1. Phillips C, Blakey G, Essick GK. Sensory retraining: a cognitive behavioral therapy for altered sensation. Atlas of the oral and maxillofacial surgery clinics of North America. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3073500. Published March 2011.
    2. Di Pierro F, Settembre R. Safety and efficacy of an add-on therapy with curcumin phytosome and piperine and/or lipoic acid in subjects with a diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy treated with dexibuprofen. Journal of pain research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3704545. Published July 3, 2013.
    3. Jang CH, Cho YB, Choi CH. Effect of ginkgo biloba extract on recovery after facial nerve crush injury in the rat. International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23021527. Published December 2012.
    4. Edenfield TM, Saeed SA. An update on mindfulness meditation as a self-help treatment for anxiety and depression. Psychology research and behavior management. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3500142. Published November 23, 2012.
    5. Hammond N, Wang Y, Dimachkie MM, Barohn RJ. Nutritional neuropathies. Neurologic clinics. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4199287. Published May 2013.
    6. Majeed MH, Arooj S, Khokhar MA, Mirza T, Ali AA, Bajwa ZH. Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Clinical Review for the General Physician. Cureus. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30800555. Published 2018.
  • EXIPURE PRODUCT REVIEW

    Effective Diet Pills for Losing Weight? What They Won’t Say!

    July 8, 2022 1:30 am

    For some people, losing weight is not as simple as dieting or exercising. Millions of people try every exercise and diet in the book but cannot get rid of their stubborn fat. There are numerous factors that contribute to the build-up of fat in the body, and these same factors can hinder the breakdown of fat as well.

    In order to effectively lose weight, it is essential to address the root cause behind the problem. Instead of wasting thousands of dollars on fitness programs and gym fees, you should take a smart approach and follow a science-backed way that effectively burns fat and helps with weight loss.

    Recent studies and research have found that low brown adipose tissues levels are among the most common factors affecting the build-up of fat in the body. Brown adipose tissues (BAT) are essential in burning fat and boosting metabolism. In fact, a study conducted by Nature Medicine in 2022 concluded that the majority of men and women who were overweight had low BAT levels, whereas the levels were significantly high in people with lower levels of fat.

    Luckily, there are several natural ingredients that can be taken to increase BAT levels and boost calorie burning, leading to significant weight loss. One of the best supplements that contain high levels of proven BAT booster combined with other essential ingredients is Exipure.

    Exipure is an all-natural supplement that contains a mix of tried and tested BAT boosting ingredients, which work together to produce results you cannot get with other supplements. The product has become popular with users because of its rapid results and super-effective working.

    The results of Exipure are backed by solid reviews from customers who have been left amazed by the results it has produced. In this article, we take a look at what makes Exipure so effective and why it is one of the best weight loss remedies you can find anywhere.

    What is Exipure?

    Exipure is a state-of-the-art 100% natural formula made after years of solid research. It contains 8 proven extracts that work together to boost brown adipose tissue levels and induce weight loss in people with stubborn fat that does not seem to go away no matter what they do.

    It is a supplement designed specifically for people who have struggled with being overweight for years and have tried everything there is to try but still cannot get rid of their stubborn fat. Exipure uses a science-backed technique to help with weight loss when no other diet or exercise regimen works.

    By regulating BAT levels in the body, Exipure can increase calorie burning by more than 3 times, which is something that is not possible with any other remedy or treatment. Exipure is different from other supplements because along with BAT levels, it also regulates other essential aspects of everyday health.

    The supplement is rich in antioxidants that work to remove all types of toxins from the body and reduce oxidative stress, saving the body from numerous diseases and ailments. It also contains a number of immunity boosters that significantly improve the immune response of the body and protect the body from diseases.

    Exipure is also great for your mental health because it not only boosts your confidence by helping the body shed weight but also reduces stress and supports brainpower. With ingredients like Oleuropein, the supplement may also significantly help improve cardiovascular health and effectively regulates cholesterol.

    On top of all this, the manufacturers of Exipure have left no stone unturned when it comes to quality. The product is manufactured within the United States in a GMP-certified and FDA-registered facility, which guarantees the most premium quality.

    Exipure is an all-in-one supplement for your overall health and weight management; along with weight loss, it also improves several aspects of your overall health.

    How does Exipure work?

    The working of Exipure is what makes it stand out in a market full of thousands of supplements. It consists of a unique mix of all-natural extracts that work in coherence to address almost all of your physical health problems. From low BAT levels to mental health to cardiovascular health, Exipure works on nearly every aspect of your health, something not seen with any other product in the market.

    The working of the supplement is explained in detail below.

    Raises Brown Adipose Tissue Levels

    Brown Adipose Tissue (BAT), also known as brown fat, is responsible for several bodily functions; it plays a vital role in ensuring overall welfare. Although it is known as brown fat, BAT is not like normal fats; it does not contribute to obesity; instead, it is a well-known fat shrink. High levels of BAT can significantly increase the capability of the body to burn calories. A small amount of BAT in your body can help burn pounds of stubborn fat without any effort.

    The first thing Exipure does is increase the amount of BAT stored in the body by introducing natural boosters that provide myriad benefits to the body. The proprietary blend, which consists of extracts that specifically address low brown fat levels, initiates weight loss like never before. This unique approach used by Exipure is something that no other supplement offers.

    Boosts Metabolism

    Slow metabolism is one of the leading causes of excess fat and obesity. People with slow metabolism are not only more overweight than others but also find it harder to lose weight. If your metabolic rate is slow, no matter how much you workout and diet, you will never be able to lose weight the way you want.

    The nutrients present in Exipure get to work by fast-tracking your metabolism and increasing the rate at which your body burns fat. With a quicker metabolism, your body produces more energy and breaks down more fat; you start losing weight even without working out. Furthermore, it also increases energy levels and allows you to feel more active than ever.

    Reduces Oxidative Stress

    Exipure contains ingredients rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants work to remove free radicals from the body, which can cause a lot of harm and damage to your overall health. By removing these free radicals, the supplement also reduces oxidative stress; it rids your body of harmful toxins that might otherwise prove detrimental to your health.

    Improves Cardiovascular Health

    Another essential function that Exipure performs inside your body is the regulation of cholesterol while supporting cardiovascular health. The supplement contains Oleuropein, which is a well-known cholesterol regulator. Oleuropein works by increasing good cholesterol levels in the body, which is full of benefits to your overall health and prevents high levels of bad cholesterol. Along with cholesterol, Oleuropein also improves the health of arteries and prevents all artery-related problems like arteriosclerosis, among others. Exipure also contains Quercetin, which is known for its positive effects on blood pressure. By improving your heart health, the supplement allows you to undertake an active lifestyle so that you can lose weight even more effectively.

    Eases Digestion and Reduces Bloating

    Exipure also contains Amur Cork Bark, an extract famous for its effects on digestive health. It reduces bloating and removes excess waste from your gut, allowing you to shed instant weight. By reducing bloating, it can also rapidly wipe a few inches off your waist, which is an added bonus.

    Improves Mental Health

    Disturbed mental health is a major cause of obesity, but it is ignored by many experts and professionals; many do not pay it much heed. However, with Exipure, you get Holy Basil with other mental health-boosting ingredients that reduce stress and improve your overall mental health so that your body efficiently performs all its functions without any disruptions. Stress leads to the production of cortisol, which can affect the metabolism and other vital functions of the body; by reducing stress, the supplement curbs the production of cortisol and prevents the body from its detrimental effects.

    What Ingredients constitute Exipure?

    The mix of ingredients that make up Exipure is unique in every aspect. Although the constituents used in the making of the supplement have been around for centuries in traditional medicine, no product has ever used them collectively to extract all the benefits they have to offer.

    Exipure uses the ingredients in their natural form, making them completely safe for everyone to take. Furthermore, the supplement is free from all types of synthetic additives and chemicals, making it free from all side effects and complications.

    The diet pills that you find in the market today are ridden with all types of chemicals that damage the way your body functions and make it prone to other diseases and infections. However, Exipure is made from proven extracts that only benefit your body and do not damage anything inside it.

    The supplement uses a proprietary blend that is unique to it and cannot be found elsewhere in the market, which means no other product can guarantee or promise what exipure does.

    The detailed composition of Exipure is explained below:

    Perilla – Perilla frutescens

    Perilla, also known as the beefsteak plant, is found mostly in Southeast Asia. It is full of benefits for your overall health. Along with being used in natural medicine, Perilla is also used in different types of cuisines because of the benefits it presents for the whole body. The nutritional value of Perilla is unmatched by other extracts. It effectively regulates brown adipose tissue levels in the body and contributes to weight loss. Nevertheless, these aren’t the only positives that you get with Perilla; it is also one of the best-known brain health boosters available today. On top of this, it also helps regulate cholesterol and boosts HDL levels in the body, improving several aspects of your health.

    Kudzu – Pueraria lobata

    Kudzu is native to China and Japan; it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries because of its proven effects. It can effectively cure symptoms of gastritis, diarrhea, fever, thirst, muscle pain, and various other problems. Kudzu is also rich in antioxidants and works to remove toxins from the body, and cleanses it of all harmful substances. It is one of the best when it comes to reducing oxidative stress and relieving muscle pains. Moreover, like other ingredients in the supplement, it boosts BAT concentration in the body, leading to effortless weight loss.

    White Korean Ginseng – Panax Ginseng

    White Korean Ginseng is another famous natural extract that has been scientifically proven to stimulate weight loss by boosting BAT concentration in the body. It is an essential component of the formula because along with increasing brown adipose tissue levels in the body, it also helps with immunity. White Korean Ginseng protects the body from several diseases by supporting the immunity of the body and making it resilient against bacteria and other foreign components. It also possesses antioxidant properties and reduces oxidative stress in the body by removing free radicals and cleansing the body.

    Holy Basil – Ocimum sanctum

    Holy Basil is one of the most important extracts in the formula; the way it reduces stress in the body and helps overcome stress-related issues that lead to weight gain and other mental health problems. By reducing stress in the body, Holy Basil also curbs the production of cortisol, which is a hormone that can create problems in the way your body functions normally. Along with this, it also improves the cognitive ability of the brain and makes you sharper, and helps with attention. Like others, it is also a BAT booster that contributes to the weight loss promised by the supplement.

    Propolis

    Propolis contains a potent antioxidant mixture with over 300+ proven antioxidants that work to alleviate oxidative stress. It is one of the best in cleansing free radicals and toxins out of the body, which is why it contributes significantly to the overall benefits that Exipure provides. Propolis also helps in the regulation of blood sugar and contributes significantly to overall health.

    Quercetin – Quercetum

    Quercetin is a BAT booster that improves the overall working of the formula. It is a distinct ingredient that contributes to the diversity of benefits that Exipure has to offer. It helps with aging by repairing the damage done to the cells with old age, meaning it can reverse the adverse effects of aging on your vital organs, making you feel young again and allowing you to undertake activities that you thought you were too old to undertake. Furthermore, Quercetin is also good for blood pressure as it regulates blood pressure and benefits cardiovascular health by keeping everything in check. All these benefits make it one of the most important constituents of the supplement.

    Oleuropein – Olea europaea

    Oleuropein is like Quercetin in many of the benefits it provides; it improves overall health by boosting cardiovascular health and regulating cholesterol in the body. The ingredient has been around in natural medicine for a long time because of its proven benefits; it stands out among all others because of the efficiency it works with. It helps strengthen arteries and prevents all diseases that might involve arteries and their functioning. It is also a BAT booster that contributes to weight loss like other essential components of the Exipure supplement.

    Amur Cork Bark – Phellodendron amurense

    Amur Cork Bark is different from the other ingredients that have been mentioned above. It helps with weight loss in a number of ways; firstly, like other ingredients in the formula, it also boosts BAT levels and maximizes the rate at which the body burns fats. Secondly, it works to improve digestion and relieve bloating, which rids the body of unwanted waste and helps you lose instant weight. Apart from weight loss benefits, Amur Cork Bark also improves the functioning of the heart and the liver. The improved functioning of the liver helps significantly in cleansing the body of toxins and harmful substances.

    All these ingredients combine to produce a potent supplement that works better than all others when it comes to weight loss and overall well-being.

    Benefits of Exipure

    The benefits that Exipure provides to the healthy weight management journey are too many to list down in a single article. Nevertheless, some of the major benefits have been mentioned below.

    • Allows for effortless weight loss
    • Boost metabolism
    • Works for people who have tried everything else but cannot lose weight
    • Supports heart health
    • Removes toxins from the body
    • Makes the user more active
    • Increases energy levels
    • Reduces pains and aches
    • Improves the functioning of the liver
    • Boosts metabolism
    • Improves digestion
    • Relieves bloating
    • And many more

    Customer Reviews and Testimonials

    The results of Exipure are not just based on mere speculation; they are also backed by solid customer testimonials that prove the supplement works as effectively as advertised in real-time.

    Lauren, a customer from Wyoming, who lost 35 pounds, had this to say about Exipure:

    “I never used to leave the house, worried about not fitting into chairs or public transport. Now after trying Exipure, I’m down 25 lbs! I feel and look amazing. My energy levels are through the roof and I regularly use the bus and try on slim clothes and shop in the mall stress-free. Thank you so much!”

    Cassie, another customer from Delaware, was able to shed almost 40 pounds and drop four sizes.

    Prices, Discounts, and Bonuses

    Exipure is one of the most affordable weight loss remedies you will ever come across. The results it provides can save you thousands of dollars in gym membership fees and other expenses.

    If you order from the Exipure website right now, you can avail limited-time discounts that allow you to get the product at a fraction of the original price, making it an absolute bargain.

    • 1 bottle – $59 (original price $199)
    • 3 bottles – $147 (original price $597)
    • 6 bottles – $234 (original price $1194)

    Along with these mouthwatering discounts, the manufacturers of Exipure offer a 180-day moneyback guarantee, which is backed by a super-solid refund policy. If you do not see the fat melt away from your body and are not satisfied with the results of the supplement, you can ask for a full refund and get all of your money back.

    Bonuses

    The incentives that Exipure offers do not end with the discounts, you also get two bonuses worth over a hundred dollars for free if you go with the 3 or 6 bottle package.

    Bonus #1: 1-Day Kickstart Detox

    The 1-Day Kickstart Detox is the first bonus that you get with Exipure. It contains a number of easy-to-make tea recipes that help increase the bioavailability of the body and improve nutrient absorption. It is worth $59.95 if ordered separately; however, with Exipure, you get it for free.

    Bonus #2: Renew You

    Renew You is the second bonus. It is a manual that guides you to a new mindset and life that compliments your new physique. With Renew You, you get a series of stress and anxiety-relieving tips and tricks that allow you to improve your mental health. The manual, if purchased alone, is worth $49.95, but with Exipure it comes for free.

    Recommended Dosage

    The recommended dosage of Exipure is one capsule per day with a glass of water. If you stick to the recommended dose for a couple of months, you will see results that you never expected.

    Side Effects of Exipure

    The best part about exipure is that it is free from all synthetic additives and chemicals that might harm your body. Many weight loss pills come with significant baggage and can cause both long-term and short-term complications; however, with Exipure, you do not have to worry about any such issues. It uses a mix of all-natural ingredients that make it safe for everyone to take and prevent any damage to the body.

    Each batch of Exipure goes through third-party testing to add extra validation and prove the authenticity of the manufacturer, which is something not many manufacturers can boast about.

    Nonetheless, excess of everything can be detrimental, which is why it is strictly advised to stick to the recommended dosage and prevent excess consumption. Moreover, if you suffer from any pre-existing conditions, it is advised to consult a doctor before taking the supplement.

    Exipure Brown Fat Weight Loss Overview

    It is now time to review the many facets of Brown Adipose Tissue (BAT), including the functions and critical facts that allow the Exipure weight loss pills to be at the leading edge of diet supplements in 2022.

    Brown adipose tissue is often referred to as brown fat and is present in almost all mammals. The brown adipose tissue converts energy from food into heat. Brown Adipose tissues are special types of body fat that get activated when the body feels cold.

    The classification of brown fat leads to two different cell populations which have similar functions. The first of which is found to have a common embryological origin with muscle cells, while the second is known to originate from white adipocytes, which are aroused by the sympathetic nervous system.

    Why Is Brown Fat Different From White Fat?

    Brown adipose tissue is found present in abundance in newborns and in hibernating mammals. Thermoregulation is the primary function of this tissue. Brown adipose tissue plays a very important role in maintaining the core body temperature besides maintaining the energy balance.

    Different from the white adipocytes containing single lipid droplets, the brown adipocytes contain many such smaller droplets. It also contains a large number of mitochondria. These mitochondria are the engines in brown fat, which burn calories to produce heat. Besides this, Brown fat also has more capillaries as compared to white fat. These work in supplying oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and in distributing the produced heat all over the body.

    Where Are Brown Adipose Tissues Located?

    It was in 2003 when the presence of brown adipose tissue was discovered in adult humans during FDG-PET scans. Several brown adipose tissues were identified while using this scan.

    Classical brown adipose tissue is found present in locations between the shoulder blades, along the neck and the spinal cord, and also in the areas surrounding the kidney. Besides this, Brown Adipose Tissue is also present in the upper back and above the clavicles, also around the vertebrae, and in the mediastinum.

    Development of Brown Adipose Tissues.

    Generally, it is accepted that both brown, as well as white adipocytes arise from progenitor cells of the embryonic mesoderm. An exception found here is the minor fat depots of the skull, which arise from stem cells of the ectodermal neural crest.

    Hence all the adipocytes develop from mesodermal tissues, which include the skeletal muscle, bone, and other connective tissues.

    The classic population of brown fat cells derives from the same population of stem cells in the mesoderm, paraxial mesoderm. Both of which are found to have the capacity needed to activate the myogenic factor 5 (Myf5) promoter. It is a trait that is associated with myocytes and this population of brown fat.

    Additionally, the muscle cells which were cultured with the transcription factor PRDM16 were converted into brown fat cells. Apart from these, the brown fat cells without PRDM16 were converted into muscle cells.

    The function of Brown Adipose Tissues

    Among all newborn babies, brown adipose tissue contributes to around 5% of their total body mass. The brown adipose tissue in their bodies is found to be present on the back along the upper half of the spine and around the areas of their shoulders. This tissue is proved to be of great importance to avoid hypothermia.

    Obesity occurs in the human body when energy intake exceeds energy expenditure. It is found that adipose tissue plays a passive role as a storage depot for all the excess calories. Over the past two decades, this view has changed as it is now known that adipose tissue is an active endocrine organ that releases free fatty acids and adipokines such as leptin, adiponectin, TNFα, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP-4). All of these can act on other tissues that include the brain, liver, and muscle and work to regulate the food intake in maintaining energy balance, insulin sensitivity, and also in reproduction.

    The obesity pandemic among children represents a unique set of challenges and difficulties. Among these, the fat-burning power of Brown adipose tissue is clearly an attractive new therapeutic target.

    All the cells of endotherms, to some extent, give off heat, especially at times when the temperature of the body is below a regulatory threshold. Besides this, the brown adipose tissues are highly specialized for this non-shivering thermogenesis. Firstly every cell contains more mitochondria as compared to typical cells. Secondly, these mitochondria are proven to have a higher concentration of thermogenin in the inner membrane.

    In rodents, brown adipose tissue generates heat for two main reasons. The first of which is to protect against cold exposure via non-shivering thermogenesis, while the second most important role is in burning off the excess calories and reducing adiposity. In this way, Brown adipose tissue plays a significant role in protecting mice from diet-induced obesity, and ablation of brown adipose tissue reduces energy expenditure and increases obesity in response to high-fat diets.

    Some Facts About Brown Adipose Tissue

    • The activation of Brown Adipose tissue helps in improving glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity, and so the person with impaired insulin function gets benefits because of the activation of Brown Adipose tissue.
    • The activation of Brown adipose tissue also has a very important role in bone health and bone density.
    • It has also been proved that brown fat activation works to reduce plasma triglyceride and cholesterol levels. It also attenuates diet-induced atherosclerosis development.
    • It is seen that the activation of Brown adipose tissue due to the body’s exposure to cold increases adiponectin levels in adult men within two hours of exposure to cold.

    Researchers have been intrigued by brown fat since it seems to be able to burn regular body fat for fuel. Additionally, exercise may trigger a hormone that activates brown fat. There is not yet enough evidence to determine whether brown fat can be used for weight loss. Until then, make sure your weight management program includes physical activity.

    Final Word

    Exipure is a unique supplement that is different from all other weight loss remedies you will find today. It is made up of a proprietary blend of ingredients that works to shed weight unlike anything else. It works effectively to increase the amount of BAT or brown fat, which then eliminates white fat en masse. The technique with which Exipure functions is distinct from any other supplement and is what makes it special. Along with weight loss, the supplement is also full of benefits for overall health.

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  • Best Sex Positions to Improve Your Sex Life

    Stale Bedroom? We’ve Got 67 Ways to Spice Things Up

    From Ask Men


    Have you and your partner fallen into a rut, doing the same old things, at the same old times, in the same old places? Familiarity is great and all, but your routine risks becoming a rut if you don’t occasionally change things up, at least a little. You have a lot of options in front of you, in terms of how to do that: you could experiment with having sex in different places, up to and including the great outdoors, or you could introduce a sex toy into your night-time fun.

    RELATED: How to Have Better Sex Tonight

    But one easy, free area to explore is the wide world of sex positions. Are you a fan of the classics, like missionary and doggy style? Do you like to cycle through half a dozen different ones each time? Is there a less common one that you’re prone to attempt, like the criss cross, the butterfly, or the surfboard?

    There are tons of different sex positions for you and your partner to try, and if you’re used to just one or two, it can be overwhelming to know how to do what’s new to you. Here, you’ll find an illustrated sex position guide to help you have better sex tonight (or at this very moment, if you can’t wait that long).

    It’s broken down into sections based on different position types. Each position is accompanied by an illustration and a description that’ll help you determine whether it’s a good fit for you and your partner.

    Whether you’re looking for positions that are great for slow, intimate, sensual sex or something more rough and intense, if you keep reading, you’ll find something for you.

    Contents


    1. Missionary Sex Positions


    Missionary is  one of the most well-known and popular positions for a reason. You don’t need to be flexible, there’s a lot of eye contact and physical closeness, and it doesn’t require anything except a flat surface. It’s also a great option for those  who aren’t looking for anything too wild. However, if you are looking to keep things fresh, missionary can be tweaked in a bunch of different ways to alter the pleasure, intensity, and kink factors for both partners. Check out these missionary-inspired versions:

    1. Missionary

    Carlee Ranger

    The Missionary position (man on top, couple facing each other) is the most famous and classic of all positions. The eye contact, the mild male dominance and the angle of penetration make this a popular one, and odds are, the first time you had sex was in Missionary. A very comfortable option that allows for easy thrusting, and an easy pull-out if you’re a man, there’s plenty of benefits to it and it’ll work its way into basically any sexual encounter you find yourself in, at some point.

    2. Coital Alignment Technique

    Carlee Ranger

    Another spin on Missionary, the Coital Alignment Technique (C.A.T.), aka the Frog or the Perfect Position, looks to sacrifice elevation and power for proper alignment. Start in regular Missionary, and then flatten your torso as much possible, while your partner should arch her legs and put her legs on your butt. What you’re doing here is targeting the clitoris for more direct rubbing and friction. The pressure you put on her clitoris could help her get to orgasm quicker. You should also be staying nice and deep within her in the C.A.T. too, to ensure maximum penetration. In other words, this one is more for her pleasure than yours.

    3. Legs on Shoulders

    Carlee Ranger

    A classic take on Missionary, this one can either be done with you lying down on top of her, or with her positioned at the edge of the bed and with you in standing (or more accurately leaning in) with her legs on your shoulders as you go into her. This position gives the man all of the control of penetration, but it will also allow you to penetrate more deeply, so it’s a win-win. You may need to grasp her legs and pull in gently to prevent your thrusting from pushing her away from you.

    4. The Pancake

    Carlee Ranger

    A more extreme variant of Legs On Shoulders, this one really puts you in the driver’s seat. Start with your torso more or less vertical and her legs on your shoulders. Descend slowly until you’re basically folding her in half. For more leverage, you can reach around her back with your arms and pull her tightly against you. This one is very intimate, but it also gives her very little mobility, so it’s basically you who is 100% in charge of the thrusting. The pressure you’re putting on her muscles can also create a tightness in her pelvis, leading to an increased tighter feel for you. You should make sure she’s flexible enough to pull this one off — many women aren’t — and keep in mind you’ll probably be able to pull this off for just a few minutes.

    5. Swivel and Grind

    Swivel and grind positionCarlee Ranger

    If you’re working with a little bit less than the average man, the Swivel and Grind is your friend. Instead of the ol’ in-and-out pumping, which is actually better for you than it is for her. Instead, once you’re inside her, use your hip rotation to grind and twist inside of her, pressing your shaft as hard as you can against her clitoris. The friction and pressure will be what brings her to orgasm, no matter what your size. To get maximum closeness, Missionary with legs on shoulders works best. You may also want to consider propping up her hips on a pillow or wedge (you can find specially made ones) to create the perfect angle.

    6. The Viennese Oyster

    Carlee Ranger

    In the Viennese oyster, the woman places her ankles behind her head while the man holds them there as he thrusts into her. Her tightened leg muscles mean it’s great for deep penetration. Meanwhile, she can use her hands to help support his body weight. This position isn’t super common, and it definitely isn’t for every couple — it requires a pretty flexible female partner, for one. That said, it offers a lot of control for the male partner, as well as eye contact. If those are musts for you, it might be worth a try.

    7. Spread Eagle

    Carlee Ranger

    This one’s not for beginners, as it requires a little light bondage. But if you’re exploring kinkier options with your partner, this is a great option that allows you to take a more dominant role while still offering both of you a lot of intimacy. With your partner on her back, have her spread her legs and tie her ankles and her wrists together. You then have total control for a very steamy, powerful romp.


    2. Doggy-Style Sex Positions


    Traditional doggy-style, named because it’s, well, how dogs have sex, features the woman on her hands and knees with the man kneeling behind her. It’s a less intimate option than missionary-style positions, but sometimes, that’s just what you’re looking for. Doing it from behind can also mean easier access to the clitoris for one or both of you, and kneeling or standing positions can mean a very different thrusting experience where you’re not supporting yourself with your arms and upper body. However, in this section, we’ve grouped all kinds of doing-it-from-behind positions, featuring standing, kneeling, and lying down options.

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    1. Doggy-Style

    Carlee Ranger

    Doggy-Style is a favorite for millions of people for a few reasons. It’s the classic female submissive position and really lets the man be in control, and there’s more than a few variations on it. In its simplest form, you kneel on the bed, with your partner on all fours. Enter her from behind, and hold onto her hips and/or torso. You can decide to go slow or hard. If you want to add some roughness, and your partner is into that, Doggy is a solid option that allows for you to pull her hair or spank her as well, provided she enjoys that. If you have a free hand, a clitoral reach-around or playing with her breasts can add extra stimulation, too.

    2. Reach for the Sky

    Carlee Ranger

    Doggy-Style is normally done kneeling, but it doesn’t have to be. An easy transition from normal Doggy-Style, in this version you actually get up on your feet and stand up, and lean way over her. You’ll get somewhat of a less intense thrust than regular Doggy-Style, but in return you’ll have a different sensation, particularly for her, and a pretty decent workout for your hamstring and ankles from it. The leaning forward actually lets you get a somewhat deeper feel, and the difficulty quotient will make you feel all the more accomplished for pulling it off.

    3. Bedside Doggy-Style

    Carlee Ranger

    A lot of sexual positions have the woman on an elevated platform with the man on the ground — this one flips the script. Go the edge of the bed and kneel. Have her standing straight up and back up to you slowly, and then bend over at 90 degrees. You then enter her from behind and thrust away. This one has a little bit less of the hands-on potential of traditional Doggy-Style, but it’s an interest take on the position that’s arguably even more male-dominant. If you want to make things easier on her back, you can place a chair or desk to place her arms on for support.

    4. Backdoor Planking

    Carlee Ranger

    Sex expert Tyomi Morgan says: “This position not only accesses the G-spot and the A-spot to create squirting orgasms but it’s also comfortable for the female partner after switching into several positions. Backdoor planking is a position where the female partner lies on her stomach with her legs close together, and is penetrated from behind. This position requires little work on her behalf, but feels amazing because her legs are placed closely together which creates a tighter entry for him and increased sensation for her.”

    5. Doggy-Style Stairs

    Carlee Ranger

    Another set up that works for anal sex or vaginal sex, the Doggy-Style sex on the stairs takes advantage of the natural inclination and steps to create new angles and supports for a classic position. Again, carpeted steps or a towel to protect her knees are a good idea. Depending on your height, you can either be standing or kneeling for this one. The stairs mean she can keep herself more upright, and the fact that you’ll be on a lower step means you have a more natural, upright angle to enter her vagina than traditional Doggy-Style on a flat surface. Just make sure you don’t fall!

    6. Spooning

    Carlee Ranger

    Spooning is one of the “cuddliest” of all the positions, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it intense. You lie on your side, with your partner in front of you, facing away. Enter her from behind, and then both of you can control the pace and depth of thrusting. Spooning is comfortable; it’s great for longer sexual sessions with a lot of sensual touching and kissing of the back of the neck. You can also get quite handsy and reach around the play with her nipples or even reach down and add extra stimulation to her clitoris from the front, and it also works great as an anal option.

    7. Kneel Together

    Carlee Ranger

    This position is a great variation on regular Doggy-Style. In this edition, you enter her from behind as you would normally with Doggy-Style, only then both of you straighten your torsos straight up. This position means her hands are a load free-er than they’d normally be during Doggy-Style, which means she can more easily play with her clitoris or even reach down and grab your balls.

    8. Hyper-Connected Doggy

    Hyper Connected Doggy sex positionCarlee Ranger

    Sex expert and founder of Sexpressed.com Scott Brown says: “It’s a variant of the Doggy-Style position we are all familiar with. The man stands on the floor at the edge of the bed, and the woman gets into the typical Doggy-Style kneeling pose on the bed. After the man has entered his partner he pulls her up towards him so that she is now kneeling at the edge of the bed, instead of being an all fours. He supports her with one hand wrapped around her torso. This position is great because it allows you to get that deep penetration so many love about Doggy-Style, but you’re more connected with your partner because her whole body is up against you. Added benefits are that you can pull her hair, see her face, and also whisper nasty things into her ear, all at the same time, since you have one free arm. It’s intense, intimate, and feels good!”

    9. Chicken Wing Doggy-Style

    Chicken wing sex positionCarlee Ranger


    While this is a pretty straightforward doggy variation that gives you even more control, it might be tricky for couples if the man struggles to support the woman’s body weight. You start in the typical doggy style pose with your partner on all fours, then lift her up by her thighs from behind, with your arms underneath her legs to help support them. If need be, you can prop up one of her legs with your knee or thigh by planting your foot on the bed while your other leg remains in a kneeling position.

    10. The Superhero

    Carlee Ranger

    Perhaps the ultimate strength test position, the “Superman” sees you bend her over a desk or table, with her using it for support. Then, once you’re inside her, lift her pelvis up slowly until her feet are actually off the ground, and you’re holding on to her as you thrust in and out. The sheer physical intensity of this one means it’s not for the faint-hearted, but can provide an adrenaline rush as you go closer and closer to your breaking point. Keep safety in mind and let her down gently as soon as your strength starts to wane, and make sure you don’t pull out too much.

    11. The Lean Doggy

    The lean doggy sex positionCarlee Ranger

    Dating writer Jeremy Glass writes: “How it looks depends on (a) your partner and (b) the thing she’s leaning over. If you have a really understanding woman-friend who doesn’t mind being boned from behind while she rests her elbows on a wooden desk, all is well. Leaning your partner over, say, a table and taking her from behind requires work from her end (no pun intended) but allows the dude to go about sexy times while literally just standing there. Literally! How it feels depends on the surface. If you’re leaning your partner over a bathroom sink, it probably won’t be the best for her. However, if you’re leaning her over the bed and there happens to be a plate of pancakes and waffles on said bed… everyone’s happy.”

    12. Bent-Over Standing Doggy

    Bent-Over Doggy Style Sex PositionCarlee Ranger

    This standing twist on Doggy-Style takes some serious flexibility and commitment, but if you’re up for it (or down for it) it can be a fun addition to your roster of positions. This is also a great choice if you’re trying to get it on in public without being caught — she can completely dip down behind a bush or parked car for cover.

    13. Out-of-Control Cowgirl

    Carlee Ranger

    If you’re looking for a doggy variant that offers her a bit more control, you could try the out-of-control cowgirl. In this version, rather than kneeling forward, the man kneels back with his butt on his heels, shifting it from a thrusting position to more of a riding position. The woman lowers herself onto him, actively riding him rather than lying down or resting on her hands and knees. This one offers the man easy access to her clitoris and breasts for extra stimulation, as well as lots of body contact if she’s leaning back into his chest.

    14. The Cowboy

    Carlee Ranger

    Before we get to the Woman On Top positions (aka different variations of the Cowgirl) let’s check out the Cowboy! Finally, your chance to ride. This is a variant on the Backdoor Planking position that sees you putting your thighs outside of your partner’s thighs instead of inside them. Your partner should push her butt up in the air a little bit to help give you a better angle — a pillow can help here.

    15. The Toad

    Carlee Ranger

    In the Toad, the guy gets behind the woman and penetrates her — but rather than classic doggy style or standing doggy, here, both partners are crouched over together. A good option for those who find that the Frog isn’t crouch-y enough, the Toad is a master class in getting it on while your knees bent. While this one should be considered for experts only, it’s a strong choice if you’re trying to sneak in a quickie and want to keep a low profile without fully lying down.


    Products to Enhance Your Experience


    Of course, the more positions you try, the more fun you can have — but let’s not forget that adding some sex toys to the mix can really amp things up. If you’re looking for more ways to spice up your sex life, consider some of these options:


    1. An All-Purpose Lube

    An All-Purpose Lube

    AskMen Recommends: There are plenty of formulas on the market engineered for specific use cases, depending on where (and what) you’re trying to lube up. But if you’re looking for a great lubricant perfect for any position you’re trying out, this water-based formula takes just about any position to the next level. It’s condom-compatible and completely safe to be used with toys. Plus it’s super long lasting, meaning you’ll get more bang for your buck… if you’ll pardon the pun. And in case you haven’t gotten to know your partner well enough to find out what she’s allergic to, this formula is completely organic, chemical and paraben free — which means you’ll be in the clear.

    $15.99 at Amazon.com

    2. A Vibrator to Help Her Climax

    A Vibrator to Help Her Climax

    AskMen Recommends: It’s a fact that the majority of women need some kind of clitoral stimulation in order to reach orgasm. Of course, there are options that are better for getting her there. But if you want to try something new without losing the benefit of clit stim, a vibrator is going to help achieve both of those goals. As long as you’re both getting off in a position you enjoy doing, everyone wins, right? You don’t need one of those monster vibrators to get the job done, either. Something like the We-Vibe Sync, which offers G-spot and clitoral stimulation while allowing for simultaneous penetration will do the trick nicely.

    $189.05 at Amazon.com

    3. A Penis Ring

    A Penis Ring

    AskMen Recommends: If you’ve written off the idea of trying out a cock ring because you don’t need extra help lasting, it’s time to revisit the benefits of using one. For starters, wearing a cock ring during any variation of woman on top gives your partner the advantage of added clit stimulation as she’s riding you. This also takes your standard Missionary and Coital Alignment Technique positions a step further, letting you stimulate her most sensitive area without much additional effort. A vibrating ring like this rechargable one amplifies that stimulation even further — and will feel extra good for you, too.

    $36.99 at Amazon.com

    4. A Ramp or Cushion

    A Ramp or Cushion

    AskMen Recommends: When you’re exploring new positions, it’s all about finding new angles that feel the best for both you and your partner. And sometimes, that extra throw pillow or three just doesn’t quite do it when you’re going for more complex positions — like legs on shoulders, swivel and grind, or the pancake. A ramp or cushion that gives your partner just enough lift off the floor, but enough support that it won’t collapse under your pressure could be the key to finally finding her G-spot. With this new piece of very strategic furniture, the possibilities are infinite.

    Liberator Jaz Cushion, $54.99 at Amazon.com


    3. Girl on Top Sex Positions


    A lot of people will associate missionary and doggy-inspired sex positions with the male partner being in control. That’s all well and good, but if you want to switch things up, girl on top positions are the way to go. These options give her more control over the speed, intensity, and angle of penetration to best suit both her pleasure and her comfort level. Different woman on top variations let you both face each other or away from each other, and with versions that involve more thrusting for him or more riding for her, there’s sure to be one for every couple.

    1. Cowgirl

    Carlee Ranger

    Probably one of the first positions you learned, there’s more than a few reasons why the Cowgirl is one of the most popular positions in the world. You get to lie back and get a simply wonderful view of your partner moving up and down; she gets excellent clitoral stimulation and a lot of control of depth and penetration. Penetration-wise, this is arguably the quickest way for a woman to get an orgasm, although quite a bit more difficult for you. Use your free hands to massage her breasts, and if the two of you want to add an element of dominance despite her being on top, you can place your fingers gently around her neck.

    2. Reverse Cowgirl

    Carlee Ranger

    A classic, the reverse Cowgirl puts the man on the bottom and has the woman straddling him facing away. She can control the angle of penetration here, and the man gets a great view of her from behind. If you want to change things up, arch your knees up to give her something to easily push off of. If you want to make eye contact and get a view of her from the front, doing this in front of a mirror could turn up the heat a little bit.

    3. Crouching Reverse Cowgirl

    Carlee Ranger

    The Reverse Cowgirl is usually done in something of a vertical T-position, with the man lying flat on his back and the woman bouncing up and down mostly upright. You can add a variation to this by having her lean forward, so that her head is actually almost over top of your feet. By planting her arms onto the ground/bed or even grabbing your shins, she can really get a lot of leverage to move herself back and forth. This one really leaves her in control, and lets you sit back and relax, essentially.

    4. Girl Lying on Top

    Carlee Ranger

    This position requires a lot of exertion on the woman’s part but could be very intense; it can also work for anal sex, and give her a lot of control in that scenario. It’s pretty self explanatory; you lie flat on your back hold her by the hips or butt, while she partly props herself up using her elbows and legs, arching her back and placing her shoulders and shoulder blades on your chest. Then she lowers herself up and down, to control how deeply you move in and out of her. To prevent her from getting tired, help her by supporting her butt and taking some of the weight.

    5. The Backseat Special

    Carlee Ranger

    The backseat is a favorite car sex spot because of it being the most convenient spot to have sex when you’re typically surrounded by inconvenient places to have sex. So if you and your lover are driving down the highway and you’re bored as sin, and get understandable horny, you can’t well have a roll on the interstate. The backseat is a cramped, semi-public locale for sex, which can add to the thrill of it. As for the best car sex positions, you’re probably better off sticking to the standard Cowgirl, although Missionary might also be an option.

    6. The Waterfall

    Waterfall sex positionCarlee Ranger

    The Waterfall is one of the strangest-looking positions out there, but once you try it you’ll understand why it’s worth it.

    Sex expert Dr. Emily Morse says: “The Waterfall is a variation on the popular Cowgirl position, but packs a super-sized climactic punch. Start by laying on the couch or bed with your head near the edge and your partner on top of you, but instead of riding you from her knees, she’ll need to lean back and shift her weight to her feet. Once she’s got the stance down, inch toward the edge of the bed or couch, letting your head and shoulders slide off onto the ground while your hips remain elevated. If you’re on a couch, drape your legs over the back of the seat or simply let your knees fall open. From here, your partner has complete control over the speed, depth and intensity of her gyrations, not to mention a free hand to use as she wishes — clitoral stimulation, anyone? There are a couple of ways to execute this pose: You can either use it as a bridge while building to orgasm, or moving into it right before the big finale. Either way, this position will cause the blood to rush to your head (and your other head) for an explosive climax.” 

    7. Zen Sex

    Carlee Ranger

    Some people want lustful, intense, passionate sex… and some people want more relaxed sex. If you’re in the mood for something a little more zen, try this position. In order to pull it off, your partner should put her legs into a full lotus position and lean forward on her hands. Or, she can move her hips up and down. Alternately, you can help by lifting her hips from behind to achieve an up and down motion.


    https://72e28070fac98461c7423b93e8c7be50.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html

    4. Oral Sex Positions


    Not all sex has to be exclusively genitals-on-genitals. Oral sex is always a great pleasure option, whether you’re giving or receiving — or both at once. Not to mention that many women report enjoying oral sex more than penetrative sex. So what are your options when it comes to blowjobs, cunnilingus and 69ing? Let’s check it out.

    1. Lying for Him

    Carlee Ranger

    This is probably the least work you’ll ever have to do to achieve orgasm, as you just lie back and let your partner do the work. This allows her to control everything that’s going on, too, meaning she has full control over the speed, the angle, the duration and more, making this a great option for both of you.

    2. Lying for Her

    Carlee Ranger

    One good turn deserves another — this position is the gender-swapped version of the above one and similarly allows her to relax and you to really get to work. It’s also perfect for amping things up a bit by adding some fingering to the mix to really take her pleasure to the next level.

    3. Standing for Him

    Standing for him sex positionCarlee Ranger

    This has been a staple of porn scripts for a long, long time. While it might be a little less relaxing position to receive a blowjob, it’s a great option if there isn’t a bed available and/or if you want to feel more dominant or engage in role play while receiving oral pleasure. It also means you can experiment (only with your partner’s express consent!) with thrusting a little rather than just being passive.

    4. Standing for Her

    Standing for Her sex positionCarlee Ranger

    This is a bit trickier than the male equivalent, but it’s a solid option if there isn’t a bed available — although trickier to pull off in more public situations if your partner’s wearing pants or shorts. Just kneel at her feet, have her spread her legs a bit and go for it.

    5. Face-Sitting for Him

    Carlee Ranger

    Face-sitting can be very hot because it adds an extra element of dominance and submissiveness to your oral play. Have your partner lie on her back; she can prop up her head either using a pillow or leaning her shoulders against the wall. Then, thrust into her mouth. It’s a good idea to go gently here because you could make this uncomfortable otherwise. Talk to her beforehand to establish some boundaries and maybe a signal for whether you should stop; then during the act, work with her body language and cues to figure out your rhythm and how deep you can go.

    6. Face-Sitting for Her

    Carlee Ranger

    For female on male, this version works even better. The mechanics are pretty simple: You lie flat on your back, and she straddles your face with her thighs, lowering her crotch onto your head. You can also use a pillow to take some of the pressure off your neck. Women love this position, but a lot of guys do too, a) because it’s a pretty comfortable way to eat her out and b) there’s a bit of female dominance to it. You also get the full experience: The taste, the heat, the smell and the moisture of her vagina are all right in your face. She can also add a bit more pressure if you want to kick the intensity up a notch — though in that case, you’ll want to work out a signal in case you find yourself struggling to breathe.

    7. The 69

    Carlee Ranger

    The classic mutual pleasure oral position, 69-ing is a thrill for the head-to-toe positioning. It also works for any combination of two sex partners. If you’re lying one on top of the other, typically woman on top is easier, with each of you pleasuring the other orally. An intense oral option that’s not for everybody, the 69 also tests your concentration and your ability to pleasure your partner while she’s doing the same for you. Work on this one and play with various configurations so you’re most comfortable.

    8. Sideways 69ing

    Carlee Ranger

    Another fun option for the 69 is to simply turn it on its side. While sideways 69ing requires a bit more effort than the upright version, it’s a great option if lying on top of each other is tricky for whatever reason, and offers a fun new spin — literally — on a classic oral position.

    9. The Upside-Down 69

    Upside Down 69Carlee Ranger

    Not satisfied with simply turning the 69 sideways? Amp it up another level with the Upside-Down 69. This variation, which is not for beginners, also requires some specific hardware, as you’ll need a chin-up bar or some sort of equivalent bar for the top person to hang from. Don’t try this without first ascertaining that it can hold your weight (or your partner’s), though. You can also alternate which one of you is upside down if you’re really enjoying yourselves.

    10. Sideways Oral

    Carlee Ranger

    Recline on your side, and have your partner position herself so that her head is in line with your crotch. She should also be on her side, using and can wrap her arm around your legs for balance and leverage. From there, it’s up to you; you can totally sit back and let her do all the work, or provide the thrusting motion yourself. This is an incredibly comfortable and relaxed position for both of you. Your partner may need to tuck her legs in to prevent her legs from overhanging the bed (if that’s where you’re at) or even placing a chair next to the bed if you’re a taller couple so that her legs aren’t overhanging into nothingness.

    11. Elevated Cunnilingus

    Carlee Ranger

    A table, a windowsill, a countertop, whatever the case, having your partner up above means that you can go down on her… without going down too much. Have her bring her legs right up to the edge of whatever platform she’s on, and then either kneel or stand (depending on her and your height) and give in to the pleasure of cunnilingus. This is another one that is great for getting it on in public, because you don’t need a nice cushy surface to lie down on.

    12. The Dragon

    Carlee Ranger

    Sort of a reversal of the woman-on-top face-sitting position, this one is great for guys who love cunnilingus but who still want to be a bit more dominant. Typically, this one starts with the woman lying on her back, her partner can then pick her lower body up and support it while her head and shoulders remain in place. This position is also great for analingus, as it gives the giver full access to the woman’s crotch and anus. 

    13. The Seated Blowjob

    Carlee Ranger

    Is there anything better than getting a blowjob while seated? Don’t answer that; it’s a rhetorical question, and besides, the answer is no. Perhaps the most famous version of this blowjob position is getting one in a car, known as “road head.” That’s a sideways angle, but of course you can always do this in the privacy of your home instead of in a motor vehicle. In that case, your partner would probably approach from the front, with you seated on a chair of your choice and her kneeling in front of it.

    13. Doggy-Style Oral

    Carlee Ranger

    Unlike most other oral positions, this Doggy-Style one is (crazy bending ability aside) pretty much just for performing on women. Have her get down on all fours, either propping herself up on her knees and hands or knees and elbows. You then either get down on all fours and pleasure her orally from behind, or have her on all fours next to the edge of the bed so that you can either stand or kneel on the ground to make it easier on your back. This position is also great for giving her analingus.


    5. Standing Sex Positions


    Whether you have a bed at your disposal or not, sometimes you just want to get it on standing up instead of lying down. Standing sex is a great option if you’re in the mood for something that burns a few more calories, and if your heights line up just right, standing sex means, like some Doggy-Style positions, that you have a lot of freedom of movement. It’s also probably the most common go-to for public sex because it typically doesn’t require anything except two bodies (and you can still be wearing most of your clothes).

    https://72e28070fac98461c7423b93e8c7be50.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html

    1. Standing Sex

    Carlee Ranger

    Bro, do you even lift (your partner up to have sex with her?) Grab her thighs and then have her wrap her legs around you while hanging off your shoulders with her arms. Make sure you’re strong enough to pull this one off, and then penetrate her. You’ll probably have to lift her up higher and then slower her very slowly onto your penis. We’d add a pretty big note of caution here: make sure you have a very firm grip and take this slowly and safely, as there is the potential for injury here if you drop your partner — for both of you.

    2. Against a Wall

    wall sex positionCarlee Ranger

    This is a staple of movie sex scenes — two characters passionately embrace for the first time and, too lustful to make it to the nearest bed, simply get it on against the nearest wall. Like its wall-less equivalent, it’s taxing on your upper-body strength, but the wall means you’re not supporting all of your partner’s weight. It also offers great access to the neck and breasts so you can get in a lot of passionate kissing, and a lot of intimate face-to-face time.

    3. Standing from Behind

    Carlee Ranger

    Another public sex favorite that can also work for anal, this position is relatively simple; both of you are standing, and you enter her from behind. She can be completely upright, in which case you’ll want either a wall, or a tree, or a similarly vertical object for her to lean against. Another way to do it is to have her lean against a desk or table.

    4. Woman on Table Sex

    Carlee Ranger

    For truly intense thrusting and sex that involves a lot of power, having your feet firmly planted on the ground is a great way to go. Have your partner lie flat on the table (this also works with any roughly waist-high platform) and have her butt pushed right up to the edge, or even overhanging a tiny bit. Then enter her and you’ll see how much power and stability you have from being in a standing position. As for her legs, there are a few options; you can have her wrap them around you, you could have them hanging down or up against your shoulders, you could even have her lie on her side as well for a differing angle of penetration.

    5. Criss Cross

    Carlee Ranger

    Sex expert Lindsay Tigar says: “This is one of the less standard positions, but great to have in your arsenal. What this position does, essentially, is make your penis feel twice as big as it actually is, and all she has to do is cross her legs. You in? Figured as much. Find yourself a surface that is roughly at hip-height. Then lay your lady down on said surface with her legs draping over the edge. Standing between her legs, enter her, then lift and cross them so they form an X. From here, you can place her ankles on your shoulders. By crossing her legs, you have better access to her G-spot and become the girthiest dude she’s ever had. Presumably.”

    6. Pile Driver

    Carlee Ranger

    This one is no walk in the park for the man either. It’s an intense position by any stretch of the imagination, and one you’re not likely to be able to sustain for long. To get into this one, have her lie on her back, then lift her legs up slowly from her thighs until her torso is coming off the floor. Slowly raise her butt up so that it’s almost above her head, and then straddle her, using up and down motion to enter her. you’re going to have to lean forward somewhat in order to position your penis at the right angle, which is going to take a bit of bending regardless.

    7. Bridge and Tunnel

    Carlee Ranger

    The Bridge and Tunnel is a dual-standing doggy variant that requires some flexibility on the woman’s part. She spreads her legs, bends over and touches the floor while he holds onto her hips and penetrates from behind. Frankly, this is a complicated position that shouldn’t be attempted by the inexperienced. That being said, for a couple who is really in sync, it’s a great option new option that’ll  burn a few calories.

    8. The Sitting V

    Carlee Ranger

    Have her sit on table or counter with enough room for her to lean back, and with her butt slightly hanging off the edge. Support her back with your hands, and then have her place one leg on your shoulder, and then the other. Have her grab behind your shoulders for extra support. Then you can enter her. You control the thrusting in this position, because generally keeping her balance is going to be enough of a challenge in itself. This is a tough position, requiring flexibility on her part, and it’s made tougher if she has short legs or you have a long torso. But if she can pull if off, she deserves a pat on the back — she might need it for support anyway.


    6. Sitting & Kneeling Sex Positions


    Of course, standing positions aren’t for everyone. If the two of you don’t match up well height-wise, sitting or kneeling positions can be more comfortable and intimate, while also offering some new and unique options for getting it on.

    1. Seated Sex

    Seated sex positionCarlee Ranger

    This is a highly intimate sitting position that can be performed at the end of a bed if it’s a good height, or on a chair bench that’s wide enough. The seated man has his partner straddling him in a kneeling position with her knees on either side of his hips. While it doesn’t allow for much by way of thrusting for him, it’s a great position for a more low-key vibe, and also works if the woman wants to take charge a little bit and ride her partner à la cowgirl. This position also offers a lot of opportunities for kissing, eye contact, and breast play.

    2. Sit on My Lap

    Carlee Ranger

    Who hasn’t been aroused when their partner’s sitting on their lap? Well, this sex position is basically that, minus your clothes. As you’re directly on top of each other, this one is very doable anywhere a single person can sit (so long as it can hold the weight of both people). You’re not face-to-face, which might take away from the intimacy for some people, but there’s still lots of skin-to-skin contact and easy access for clitoral stimulation by both partners. Like the previous position, this one is better suited for when she wants to ride him as opposed to when he wants to thrust into her.

    3. Kneeling Sex

    Carlee Ranger

    Another position that’s all about intimacy, kneeling sex can be rewarding if pulled off right. We’d suggest finding a cushion, pillow or yoga mat to take some of the strain off your knees. This one also works best if the man isn’t too much taller than the woman; if you’re 6’3” and your partner is 5’5”, this might not work. You kneel, placing your left outstretched knee to the left of the woman and your right leg behind you. The woman does the same. To get penetration, you should try to lower your pelvis beneath your partner’s (hence why this might be difficult for taller folk) and slip your penis into her vagina. Once you’re inside her, this position becomes easier, as she rocks her pelvis back and forth until you both get off. If your balance is good enough, there’s also potential for a bit of anal or nipple play with your hands.

    4. Kneel and Deliver

    Carlee Ranger

    Another kneeling position, this one also doesn’t require a bed or even nice surface to do your thing on. You get on your knees, resting your ass on your hamstrings. Have her sit down slowly until you enter her, with her wrapping her arms around you for added balance. While this one looks uncomfortable, the angle and stability actually mean this one can be reasonably intense, while providing eye-to-eye contact and a “do-it-anywhere” convenience.

    5. The Bridge

    Carlee Ranger

    A kneeling position for the man, the bridge gives you a wonderful view of her breasts and torso while demanding a lot of her physically. While she creates an arch with her arms and legs, you kneel in front of her and penetrate her. She won’t be able to do too much moving, aside from keeping herself upright, so your job is to grab her ass and start pulling her hips back and forth to get the necessary motion to make the whole thing work. Supporting her ass with your hands a bit will also take some of the strain off her arms.

    6. The Butterfly

    Carlee Ranger

    Dr. Kat Van Kirk, sex expert for Adam & Eve says: “She lays on her back with her hips off the bed. Her legs can either be wrapped around his hips, her feet can be flat on the floor or she can have her knees bent up to her breasts. This position allows for her to control the angle of penetration with her hips and both of them have hands free to explore one another and make sure the clitoris isn’t ignored. Plus, he can control the depth and speed of penetration that works for them both. This position also promotes intimacy through ease of eye gazing and kissing […] and it promotes communication because you see one another’s responses to stimulation.”

    https://72e28070fac98461c7423b93e8c7be50.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html

    7. Yab Yum

    Carlee Ranger

    This is one requires a lot of intimacy and patience; you won’t get much intensity or deep thrusting. To get into this, you sit down facing your partner, and wrap your legs around her. She does the same, keeping her legs inside yours. She should slide her butt forwards a little bit until you can slide inside her. Probably not the one to try on a first date, but it can be rewarding all the same.

    8. The Splits

    Carlee Ranger

    While you’re in a sitting pose, your partner lowers herself onto you. Once you’re penetrating her, have her rotate her torso so her legs are pointing in opposite directions. Fair warning: You probably shouldn’t try this one unless your partner is extremely flexible. However, for those of you who are sleeping with athletes, dancers, or just naturally flexible people, this option is a fun twist (literally) on a number of other sitting versions.


    7. Unusual Sex Positions


    Something as varied as sex could never fit into six neat little categories. This  final section is for all the wacky, wet, and weird positions that didn’t really slot in anywhere else. Whether you and your partner are on the hunt for something new and adventurous, or  you’re just looking to try as many positions as possible, these last few are for you.

    1. The Wheelbarrow

    Carlee Ranger

    This one is all about her upper body strength and your back and leg strength. Barring some kind of Olympian training you each have, this is probably a bit of a transition position rather than anything that’s going to lead to long-lasting sex or orgasm. Have her start on all fours, and then you lift up her pelvis until her vagina is in line with your penis. Grasp her around her hips firmly and thrust into her. Rather than having her try to do vertical pushups, or you pulling her back and forth, both of which are liable to tire you out, do the work with your hips. The position can actually be quite interesting for her clitoris.

    2. The Surfboard

    Carlee Ranger

    Sex expert Tyomi Morgan says: “This one requires a bathtub big enough to accommodate the size of both partners and can be enhanced by lighting a few candles and adding some champagne. It is important to only fill the bathtub up half way to avoid overflow when you both sit down. In this position, the male partner sits in the tub with his legs extended and gets to relax. The female partner sits on top of her partner and puts in the work. She can sit with her back facing him or face him positioned on her knees or with her feet flat in the tub. The water in the tub can wash away natural lubricant, but the feeling of the water between both bodies will feel amazing!”

    3. Sex in a Hot Tub

    Carlee Ranger

    Is there a specific position for the hot tub? Probably not, but it’s a natural place for sex; you’re already in close contact with people wearing very little other clothing anyway. In addition to the jets of a hot tub being a wonderful masturbatory aid for women to get her started (you can also fondle her nipples and lend a hand as well), there are benches all around for the man to sit on. Remember, finish quickly though: you don’t want to be in there for more than 20 minutes.

    4. Scissoring

    Carlee Ranger

    To be honest, aside from the awesomeness of the name, you might find this one a bit challenging. Scissoring involves you intertwining your legs together, and placing yourself at something approaching a 90-degree angle to each other. Insert yourself into your partner, and then move your hips to thrust in and out. You’ll need to do this slowly and carefully, as it’s pretty easy to slip out while scissoring. This position is pretty unique because it involves very little eye contact, and places your heads pretty far away from each other, and your body position is such that you can’t really use your hands to fondle her in any way. Little eye contact, a lot of distance, and difficult thrusting make this one a toughie, but sexually experienced couples should give it a go just for the novelty.

    5. Scissor Straddle

    Carlee Ranger

    Though “scissoring” is a real thing as well, this position requires a bit of twisting to make it happen and some knee endurance. Perfect for the woman to be fully comfortable and let herself go, this puts the man in full command of how fast and how deep he wants to penetrate. As with all such kneeling positions, this one is going to seriously test your leg muscles and how cramp-proof you are, but the effort is always worth it.

    6. The T-Position

    Carlee Ranger

    Most positions are have your bodies lined up more-or-less; here, this one involves putting the “d*ck” into perpendicular. Have her start off by lying on her back, you lie on your side, and penetrate her from the side. This sort of thing either works best on a nice comfy floor or a queen or king-size bed, but you’ll need a fair bit of real estate to pull this off. Once you’re inside her, you control the pace and depth of the thrusting. This position is a little bit less popular because it’s less obvious and doesn’t provide as intense or intimate experience as some of the others, but it allows you to shake things up. Additionally, because often men’s penises are wider than they are tall, this means that by effectively turning your penis sideways you can better target her clitoris.

    7. The Spork

    Carlee Ranger

    Sort of a cross between the T-position and Spooning, this one features the woman on her back while her partner, lying on his side, cradles her and penetrates her from below. It’s a very cuddly option that allows for a decent amount of tenderness (and the whispering of sweet nothings, or dirty talk, depending on what you’re into), plus it’s a great way to switch things up if your partner’s most comfortable on her back and you’re sick of missionary-style positions. 

    8. The Sit ‘n’ Spin

    Carlee Ranger

    This position uses the vibrations of your washer or dryer to add a little extra kick to your sexual experience. Sit on the edge of the machine while it’s running (spin cycle works best on a washer), and then have her mount you in Cowgirl position, or with her legs wrapped around. From there, she should feel the vibrations running through your penis, making her orgasm all the better. Best of all? Once you’re done, you’ll have clean clothes to change into.

    Of course, there are more options out there — like these 10 advanced positions suggested by Dr. Emily Morse — if you’re ready to take things up a notch or two. You can also check out our guides to sex positions for gay menfor men with big penisesmen with small penisesfor virgins or overweight people.

    Want more stories like this? Subscribe to AskMen’s The Daily Dispatch newsletter!

    All illustrations by Carlee Ranger.

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  • Eight sex secrets every new parent should know: parents’ tips

    By Lorna Marsh animated_fact_check Medically reviewed by Clare Herbert, Senior Midwife and Team Leader | August 2022

    Two pairs of feet entangled at the end of a bed

    Having a good sex life can seem like mission impossible when you’re a new parent. It’s difficult to find time or energy when you have a young baby and it may feel like you’ll never get your old sex life back. You certainly won’t be the first parents to cope with the struggle of a non-existent sex life. Luckily though, these BabyCentre parents have bravely revealed their top secrets to help you get your sex life back on track after having a baby.

    Take sex outside the bedroom

    “Before having a baby, we’d gotten into the routine of only having sex when we were already in bed. As our baby now sleeps in our room, we’ve branched out to the sofa, my office and even the shower. It’s much more exciting!”
    Karen

    “Since having a baby, our love-making is like it was when we first got together. We’ll have sex in pretty much any room in the house, so we don’t wake our baby sleeping in our bedroom. It’s a bit of a thrill really!”
    Sophie

    Redefine your sex life

    “We’ve realised that if we don’t have time for full-blown sex, we can still be intimate with one another. Affection is so important to us, so even when we’re just passing on the landing, we’ll kiss or stroke each other. It helps remind us that we’re not just parents, we’re partners too.”
    Louise

    “If after kissing and cuddling in bed I’m too tired to go all the way, I’ll just watch my partner pleasure himself. It makes it more exciting for him and I enjoy seeing the effect just my presence has. Sometimes it will get me in the mood enough to get involved again.”
    Rosie

    Take advantage of naptime to get your sex life back

    “I usually spend my baby’s naptime catching up on the housework or sleep. At the weekends, though, I use it as an opportunity to get up close and personal with my partner.”
    Jamie

    Naptime has saved our sex life. I’m too tired by the time we go to bed in the evening, but mid-afternoon on a Sunday works for me!”
    Lisa

    Talk your way into sex

    “With a glass of wine and the lights dimmed, my partner and I love talking about the days before we had our son. It reminds us that we had a life as a couple before parenthood and suddenly we’ll find ourselves having sex like we used to!”
    Caroline

    “It can be so easy to fall into the habit of just talking about the routine things you’ve done all day or not talking at all. We’ve started making an effort to discuss the things we did before becoming parents such as politics, books and even our dreams. It helps us connect as adults and often leads to us making love.”
    Lucy

    Start dating again to reignite the old spark

    “My partner and I have introduced ‘date night’. Every Wednesday we find a babysitter, go out for dinner or to the cinema and act like we did when we first met. More often than not, when we get home we’re in the mood.”
    Sarah

    “We’ve found escaping the house and banning any baby talk has really helped our sex life get back on track. My partner asks his parents to babysit and then we go to the park for a picnic or for a drink in our local pub. We just make the time to enjoy each other’s company and that often leads to us being more affectionate and then ending up in bed when we get home.”
    Chloe

    Don’t wait for privacy if you don’t have to

    “Straight after having our daughter, we assumed we couldn’t have sex if she was in the same room as us. This made it really tricky as her cot is set up in our bedroom. After a long dry spell we realised we were being silly. She has no awareness of what we’re up to, so now we have sex whenever the mood takes us.”
    Zoe

    “We used to only have sex when our son was spending the night at his grandparents’ house. This could mean weeks in between though, so we abandoned that plan and now have sex whenever we can and want to, even if our little one is asleep in the same room. It has brought my partner and I so much closer together.”
    Laura

    Turn up the heat and seduce each other

    “In the first few months after having our baby, I was keen to make sure our sex life returned to its former glory. We were both exhausted but I made the effort to get him in the mood throughout the working day. I’d call him in his lunch hour and talk dirty to him for a few minutes. Sometimes I’d send him a text in the afternoon detailing all the things I wanted to do to him when he got home. It certainly did the trick.”
    Kara

    “After having my son, I found it really hard to feel sexy. It felt almost unnatural for me to play the mother role one minute and then slip into the lover role the next. My partner got round this problem by romancing me. He’d leave me little love notes around the house, run me a bath and wash my hair. He basically reminded me of why I fell in love with him and why I enjoy sleeping with him.”
    Claire

    Try a different kind of sex talk

    “A few months after I had our daughter, I was really ready to get our sex life back to normal. I tried to make a few subtle advances on my partner, but they seemed to pass him by. It was very frustrating so I eventually had to sit him down and explain how much I missed our intimate time together. He had no idea how I’d been feeling and thought he was being sensitive by not pressuring me. Before I knew it we were in bed!”
    Hannah

    “There’s a very small age gap between our two children, and I must be honest that sex was completely off my radar for quite a while. I think I’d forgotten how much I actually enjoy it. My partner was becoming very frustrated and he would say accusingly: “You must not be attracted to me anymore”. It just made me feel attacked and less in the mood than ever. However, he changed tack and started telling me how much he missed kissing, touching and holding me. I realised I missed it too and now we have a very healthy sex life again.”
    Becky

    If you’ve just had a baby, learn all you need to know about sex after the birth.

    Lorna Marsh

    Lorna Marsh

    Lorna Marsh is senior editor at BabyCentre. She has more than 20 years’ journalism and editing experience, including working for the NHS.

  • What is the butterfly sex position?

    How to try this intense move and its benefits

    Here, two sexologists explain the butterfly sex position and how to do it right

    Couple dancing romantically in their living room, next to dining room table that could work for the butterfly sex position

    BY GRACE WALSH

    PUBLISHED 6 DAYS AGO

    The butterfly sex position should certainly be on your bucket list if you fancy spicing things up outside the bedroom. Ideal for the dining room table or office desk as well as the bed, it’s suitable for every couple looking for an adventurous move. 

    The butterfly takes the idea of missionary and turns it on its head, offering the same style of penetration from a slightly different angle. It’s a real winner for anyone not into bedroom gymnastics, as the move requires a lot less movement from one person than traditional missionary as well.

    So if you’re looking for the best sex positions to try, then the butterfly should be on your list. This is what two sexologists have to say about the butterfly sex position, how to do it right, and the benefits of the move.

    WHAT IS THE BUTTERFLY SEX POSITION?

    The butterfly is a sex position where the receiving partner lies on their back on the edge of the bed or other surface, like a table, and the giving partner stands at the end of the bed. “The person doing the penetrating is doing most of the ‘work’”, says BIPOC sexologistMarla Renee Stewart(opens in new tab), MA, so it’s also one of the best lazy sex positions for some.

    An illustration of the butterfly sex position between man and woman on purple background

    “If both partners love deep penetration and their genitals are compatible for it, it can be an incredible and satisfying experience,” she says. “This is also a good position for people who like to see their partner and their reactions, as the butterfly sex position allows you to see all of your lover’s body in full view.”

    WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THE BUTTERFLY SEX POSITION?

    1. YOU CAN SWITCH POSITIONS EASILY

    One of the biggest benefits of the butterfly sex position is how easy it is to switch positions. “Moving your legs from the butterfly position to the side or on your lover’s shoulders is a relatively smooth sexual transition and you can move to suit your comfortability,” says Stewart. “Flow into positions that allow you more pleasure for yourself and, by default, your lover should be pleased to be pleasing you.”

    2. IT’S AN ADAPTABLE POSITION

    The butterfly is completely adaptable for this reason as well, says Kate Moyle(opens in new tab), sexologist and UKCP registered psychosexual and relationship therapist, making it one of the best lesbian sex positions as well. “It’s great for any couple where a strap-on or sex toy can be used, and it can also be adapted for anal sex if the receiving partner bends their legs closer to the body,” she says.

    If you love the unique angle of the speed bump sex position and want to mirror this with the butterfly, you can also introduce pillows to change the position of the hips. “As the receiving partner doesn’t have to take any weight or use their hands for purpose, it’s also a good one for introducing your best vibrator like Lelo’s Lily 2 for additional stimulation.”

    3. YOU CAN STAY CONSISTENT

    The butterfly sex position offers low physical intensity which makes consistency easier, says Moyle, who is also sexual wellness brand LELO(opens in new tab)’s sex and relationship expert. “Neither of you has to take on the other’s body weight,” she says. “The bottom partner is lying on their back supported by the bed, and the top partner can kneel or stand, using their hands on either side of the other for support. This makes it work as a position if you want sex to go on for a longer duration.”

    When you’re in the heat of the moment and approaching orgasm, there’s nothing worse than the tempo dropping so this is one of the major benefits of the position. “Consistency is always linked to sexual satisfaction,” says Stewart. “Your lover can stay consistent in their movement in the butterfly sex position and ensure that you get on that orgasm ladder if it’s one of your goals.”

    HOW TO MAKE THE BUTTERFLY SEX POSITION BETTER

    Much like the pretzel sex position, it’s important to stay flexible with the butterfly and figure out what works for you and your partner along the way. “Depending on the position of the bottom partner’s legs and the angle of the top partner, the sensation can feel different and the depth of penetration will vary. This is completely based on preference and it can also be worked out in the moment and as you go. Don’t feel just because it started one way that it’s how it has to finish,” Moyle says.

    “With communication about what feels good, you can make it work for you in numerous ways and like anything in our sex lives, we are all individual with different bodies and preferences and so your partner can only know what’s satisfying you if you communicate that to them.”

    But there are always two things that will help, she adds. “A good lubricant would ensure the slide sensation and will help to enhance pleasure. If you’re using condoms or sex toys then a water-based lubricant is best, otherwise, you can use an oil-based product.”

  • PREGNANCY APPS

    Tracking exercise, nutrition, baby bump images, the joys of the journey and the baby’s development are available options in a variety of apps. There are even apps for dads.

    Oviahas many features that expand based on the data entered. It answers questions about food safety and medications, and even has a community feature to connect with other moms.

    Hello Bellyoffers practical tips and a good dose of silliness with pregnancy jokes and memes. There are also yoga videos.

    Glow Nurture can be customized, has community spaces, symptom trackers, reminders for appointments and a boatload of articles.

    Expectful Pregnancy gives reminders to focus on joy by taking a moment to breathe or meditate. With guided sessions for pregnancy, moms-to-be can put regular meditation practices in place.

    Sprout Pregnancyhas a pregnancy timeline, weight tracker and journal. The 3-D images showing development of the baby are really cool, as well.

    Who’s Your Daddy gives Dad a to-do list, weekly updates, a development timeline, suggestions for taking care of Mom and helps him pick baby names.

  • PRO CHOICE

    It’s hard to recall how we got to a point where a woman’s right to choose evolved into full term abortions and medical ethics discussions about Post Birth Abortions. If that term is new to you, it’s a practice made famous throughout history by tyrannical monarchs trying to control the enslaved population of their enemy. It’s usually referred to as infanticide.

    ROE VS WADE

    Contrary to what most think, ROE VS. WADE is not the silver bullet that empowers women to make decisions about their body. Firstly, the original decision was based on a fraudulent claim that the woman seeking to have an abortion at the time was “gang raped” by a group of black men. The debate was whether or not the “father” had a say about the decision to have or not to have an abortion. Sensationalized legal proceedings are something one should always examine thoroughly before taking a stance on the issue being presented. Based on the case presented in the court of public opinion, who would possibly say that the woman didn’t have the right to get an abortion under the circumstances described.

    40 plus years later we can review the event and get a more honest perspective with accurate details about the situation. Firstly, the woman was not “gang raped”. She had a consensual relationship with one man. She was prodded by the legal team to create the dramatic storyline to garner public support for her cause.

    Secondly, when ROE VS. WADE was entered into Law it acknowledged that there were three lives that needed to be considered for the Supreme Court to make a decision on abortion. The life of the Mother, the life of the Father, and the life of the Unborn Fetus. This lead to the legalization of abortion up to 12 weeks and a legal record that life begins in the womb. A fact often overlooked when ROE VS. WADE is discussed.

    Thirdly, the Mother who was named in ROE VS. WADE as the responsible party for filing the complaint decided not to have an abortion after all the court proceedings, pomp and circumstance resolved. The case set a standard that pit Men against Women allegedly empowering Women and castrating men. The case spawned the war cry “My body. My choice.” which lead to the man hating, anti-feminine version that the Feminist movement has become. The case essentially removed any rights a man may have had to have a say about whether or not a woman carrying his unborn child could or could not have an abortion.

    Today this iconic decision by the Supreme Court is still used to wage a political battle between Liberals and Conservatives, creating the debate about being Pro-Life or Pro-Choice.

  • Citations for “60-90% of all doctor’s office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints.”

    Tom BeckmanClick here to view Tom Beckman’s profile

    Tom Beckman

    Director, Health Professionals Program at HeartMath at HeartMath LLC

    Published Apr 6, 2016

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    A statement with many variations found all over the Internet: “60-90% of all doctor’s office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints (or illnesses, conditions, disorders, or issues.)” (The percentage can also be 70%, 75% or 80%.) The statement is incorrectly attributed to several sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Medical Association (AMA), National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH), World Health Organization (WHO), the Surgeon General, Herbert Benson MD, or Harvard.

    References, when provided, don’t cite peer-reviewed papers, but decades-old USA Today, Time Magazine, Newsweek, U.S. News & World Report articles, or a 1994 Harvard Business Review article by Anne Perkins, or an unavailable American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) survey from 1988.

    While researching the topic, I found a 2013 JAMA Internal Medicine paper that states:

     “The prevalence of stress in primary care is high; 60% to 80% of visits may have a stress-related component.”

    The citation for the statistic refers to a 2003 Journal of the National Medical Association paper that states:

    “In 1981, a landmark study reviewing the charts of Kaiser-Permanente patients concluded that 60-90% of physician visits reflect emotional distress and somatization.”

    Which refers to a 1981 paper by Dr. Nicholas Cummings, Chief Psychologist at Kaiser Permanente from 1959-1979 that states:

    “Early investigations confirmed physicians’ fears they were being inundated, for it was found that 60% of all visits were by patients who had nothing physically wrong with them. Add to this the medical visits by patients whose physical illnesses are stress related (peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, hypertension, etc.) and the total approaches a staggering 80 to 90% of all physician visits. Surprising as these findings were 25 years ago, nationally accepted estimates today range from 50 to 80% (Shapiro, 1971).”

    More information on the relevant research papers:

    Nerurkar A, Bitton A, Davis RB, Phillips RS, Yeh G. When Physicians Counsel About Stress: Results of a National Study. JAMA Intern Med. 2013;173(1):76-77. 

     It cites:

     Avey H, Matheny KB, Robbins A, Jacobson TA. Health care providers’ training, perceptions, and practices regarding stress and health outcomes. J Natl Med Assoc. 2003;95(9):833, 836-845.

     It cites:

    The twenty years Kaiser-Permanente experience with psychotherapy and medical utilization: implications for national health policy and national health insurance. N A Cummings, G R VandenBos, Health policy quarterly 02/1981; 1(2):159-75.

     I found the paper as a book chapter in:

     The Value of Psychological Treatment: The Collected Papers of Nicholas A. Cummings Hardcover – June, 2000 by J. Lawrence Thomas (Editor), Janet L. Cummings (Editor)

     The 60-90% figure is from Kaiser’s twenty-year study described in the 1981 paper.

     It cites an earlier, similar statistic from: Shapiro, Arthur K. “Placebo effects in medicine, psychotherapy, and psychoanalysis.” Handbook of psychotherapy and behavior change. New York: Wiley (1971): 21.

     The 2003 paper also cites a 1989 paper by Kroenke that 16% of presentations have an organic etiology. Common symptoms in ambulatory care: incidence, evaluation, therapy, and outcome. Am J Med. 1989 Mar;86(3):262-6.

    I hope this helps those who have been searching for the source of this statistic. Oddly enough, this is the only list of references for this statistic on the Internet.

    Get a copy of our infographic with stress-related statistics here.

    The HeartMath organization has, for the last 27 years, developed psychosocial interventions supported by heart rhythm monitoring feedback. For more information, go to www.heartmath.com

    You might also be interested in an article on the quality of HeartMath Institute research.

    Tom Beckman, HeartMath LLC, tom@heartmath.com

  • Adverse Experiences

     Reviewed by Psychology Today Staff

    Child development is rarely a straight path: While many children progress smoothly from milestone to milestone, others may race ahead in one area and develop later in others. Disability, extended illness, or developmental disorders can affect progress in a range of ways. But for some children, development is disrupted by circumstance or abuse, a group of obstacles collectively known as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). These include emotional, physical, or sexual abuse; emotional or physical neglect; parental separation or divorce; living in a household in which domestic violence occurs; living with an alcoholic or substance abuser; living with family members who suffer mental disorders; or being part of a household with an incarcerated family member.

    In the classic original study of ACEs, begun in 1995, two-thirds of subjects reported having experienced at least one such event. Since then, researchers have focused on how these experiences affect not only child development and adult physical and mental health, but what the life stories of those who have endured such circumstances can teach us about resilience and positivity as well.

    Another significant long-term study of ACEs, led by researchers in the U.S. and Romania, compared a group of children who had been either institutionalized or placed in foster care with a control group that remained with their birth parents. The team discovered lasting difficulties in the social and emotional health of children who had been institutionalized: They had trouble forming healthy attachments to the adults in their lives, and they had lasting cognitive and language deficits.

    How do adverse experiences affect child development?

    Adverse experiences can hinder a child’s social and cognitive development in a range of ways. If they cannot trust their caregivers, or learn through experience that relationships are transactional, they may struggle to develop healthy relationships with others, limiting their social, romantic, and professional potential. Research suggests children raised in rough environments are also more likely than others to engage in risky behavior, potentially leading to higher rates of drug abuse, depression, PTSD, and unintended pregnancy.

    Can childhood trauma make someone age faster?

    Yes. Recent research suggests that children who had experienced abuse or violence age faster, in biological terms, than children with no such history. A study of more than 100,000 people found that those who had suffered “threat-related trauma” were more likely to enter puberty early and showed signs of faster aging on a cellular level. The effect appeared to be limited to abuse: Children who had experienced poverty or neglect did not show signs of early aging. From a biological perspective, it is beneficial to be able to grow up and exit a dangerous environment.

    Why are some children able to thrive even after adverse experiences?

    Many people who endure rough childhoods grow up to be healthy and well-adjusted. Such individuals appear to be less prone to dwell on negative circumstances or surroundings and less likely to carry childhood stress into adulthood. Researchers are particularly interested in what such people can reveal about resiliency. One discovery is related to executive function: Survivors of ACEs may develop strong cognitive flexibility, or the ability to shift between tasks and apply learning from one situation to another and find creative solutions to problems.

    Are there people who benefit from adverse childhood experiences?

    No one would want to, or should have to, endure experiences like abuse, neglect, or deprivation in childhood, but those who have, research shows, may develop some skills that benefit them as adults. Children who learn to navigate an unstable parent’s mood swings, for example, may grow to become adept at reading the emotions of others and especially their nonverbal cues.

    What constitutes positive childhood experiences?

    Research into ACEs has also pointed to a clearer definition of a positive childhood, with insights for how parents and caregivers can foster it. Positive childhood experiences are now seen as including being able to talk with close family members about one’s feelings; feeling that one’s family has stood by them in difficult times; enjoying community traditions; feeling a sense of belonging in high school; feeling supported by friends; having at least two non-parent adults who took a genuine interest in them; and feeling safe and protected by an adult in their home. Young people who grow up with these experiences are less likely to develop clinical depression, and more likely to have healthy relationships.

    How is the effect of adverse childhood experiences measured?

    The 10-question Adverse Childhood Experience (ACES) Questionnaire is used by clinicians to gauge how negative experiences might be affecting a young person and can often be a way to move away from secrecy and begin a discussion with a doctor or therapist about the stressors a child has lived with. Someone with a higher ACES score may be more emotionally reactive and sense danger in situations that don’t justify such a response.

    How can people begin to recover from adverse childhood experiences?

    One reason why the effects of adverse experiences are difficult to overcome is that many people are reluctant to talk about them, either during childhood or in adulthood. There may be a reluctance to revisit painful times, a continued fear of speaking out about abuse, an unwillingness to seem to blame parents, or unjustified feelings of shame or guilt. Given the powerful effect those experiences can have, though, research finds that it’s better to find help for addressing them, as early as possible, ideally before unhealthy patterns become cemented. Studies have found that a range of treatment options can help people address childhood experiences and begin to move past their effects, including journaling, mindfulness meditation, and group therapy.

  • Social Skills

     Reviewed by Psychology Today Staff

    Are children born with an impulse to be social?

    It’s commonly believed that children are born, morally, as blank slates and must be taught from an early age to be prosocial. But while parents should do their best to promote kindness and empathy in their children, growing evidence suggests that even newborns may be inherently prosocial, showing a keen interest in helping, sharing with, and comforting others, even if they are unable to do so. For example, children just days old will respond to hearing another baby’s cries with seemingly empathetic cries of their own and, later, make gestures to comfort a distressed peer.

    How can parents help kids develop empathy?

    Empathy necessitates understanding another person’s feelings, and then feeling or imagining similar emotions yourself. Research suggests that many children display empathy by the time they’re 18 months old, by acting to help an adult who seems to be struggling with a task or comforting a parent who seems distressed. For highly sensitive children, taking on others’ emotions may come naturally, even if it’s can sometimes be overwhelming; for other kids, having parents who talk about emotions, openly and often—along with modeling empathy at home—can help them develop their own empathy.

    To learn more, see Empathy.

    How do young children learn to be kind to each other?

    Young children can be selfish, holding onto coveted resources whenever they have the opportunity and resisting pleas to share, even though they know it’s the right thing to do. But research shows they are also highly empathetic, and quick to offer comfort to those in distress. Sharing toys, however, or understanding the importance of giving to help others may require parental guidance. Fortunately, the evidence is clear that not only can children learn to share, but that helping others makes them feel good, just as it does adults. And despite the reputation of “the terrible twos,” research finds that when toddlers play with each other, they respect and favor fair play.

    How do children learn from each other?

    Unsupervised time spent playing with other children, advocates argue, is essential for social and cognitive development, although research suggests that such time has been on the decline in recent years. Children are naturally inclined to pay close attention to their peers and they learn a great deal from other kids, even at a young age, such as authentic communication, independence, the importance of following formal and informal rules, and how to get along with others.

    To learn more, see Social Learning Theory.

    How do kids learn to lie?

    Virtually all children (like most adults) lie, and research suggests that most begin lying as early as age 2 or 3. As most parents learn, young children are not especially skilled in lying—which is a complex cognitive and social task—but they learn to get better at it. Until a child develops a theory of mind—the understanding that other people have separate minds, wants, and beliefs—they generally do not lie. Once they better understand others, they can try to capitalize on that understanding to benefit themselves by lying. When kids begin lying, a parent’s response is important: Research suggests that teaching kids that lying is bad is less effective in reducing lies than by telling them why honesty is good. But socialization, and the lessons they learn both from family and peers, also has a major influence on their interest in lying.

    How can parents help a shy child get comfortable with socializing?

    Children who act shy around other kids, or around new kids, may be on a concerning cycle: Uncomfortable in social settings, they avoid interacting with peers, only putting them further behind in developing social skills, and thus even more reluctant to try to be social. Parents should resist simply pushing such children into social groups, but instead follow their lead and seek out social opportunities around their child’s specific interests, focusing on one-on-one interactions first, practicing social skills at home through playacting—making eye contact, smiling, speaking clearly, and asking “what” and “how” questions—and above all, being patient.

    To learn more, see Shyness.

    Do only children struggle socially?

    They don’t have to, and parents can help by arranging time with other children, including in day care or preschool programs. Only children may become used to being the sole child around adults, and thus worthy of the most attention. Spending time as one of many children can help them become more realistic in their expectations from adults. More time with other kids also helps them learn to deal with competition and conflict, and avoid the tendency to become “adultized” from spending so much time with parents alone.

    Are home-schooled children slow to develop social skills?

    No. Research shows that homeschooled kids are generally as socially skilled as children taught in schools, highlighting the fact that, at least at younger ages, socialization is largely driven by parents and that most homeschooling families pursue extracurricular outlets that allow their children to spend time with other kids.

    Does screen time damage kids’ social skills?

    It has been widely assumed that significant increases in screen time in recent years have hampered children’s ability to develop social skills, but research has found that it’s not the case. In a comparison of today’s children and an earlier cohort that came of age before the rise of social media, which was based on evaluations by teachers and parents, there was little difference detected in social development; in fact, the younger generation scored slightly higher on self-control and interpersonal skills, perhaps because so much screen time today is fundamentally interactive.

    Why do teenagers make riskier choices when they’re with their peers?

    Teenagers are both egocentric—focused on themselves, and sure that everyone else is, too—and highly attuned to their peers, and their ability to earn their friendship and respect. According to the theories of evolutionary psychologists, adolescence is the period during which early humans built the social networks they would need to thrive. The key to that process is bonding with peers, and responding to their influence, which often involves proving loyalty by taking risks. Research supporting the theory finds that humans are not the only animals that display greater risk-taking in young adulthood, and that, among humans, adolescents do make riskier choices when with peers than when they are alone.

    To learn more, see Adolescence.

    How can kids respond to bullying?

    Bullying between children can begin in toddlerhood, and peaks around ages 11 to 13, gradually declining afterward, although some people remain bullies throughout their lives. Until about age 7, bullies pick on anyone, but after that, they “shop” for promising targets—kids who become visibly upset when pushed, offer little resistance, and lack many allies. Therefore, the best defense is being socially skilled and confident, although not every child will achieve that. Studies show that the most effective way to stop a bully is to activate bystanders who will step in and oppose the aggressor. It’s easier said than done; in reality, young bystanders tend to stand idly by, and may even enjoy the spectacle. But when children with high social status do stand to oppose bullies, research shows, they’re highly effective both at ending the behavior and influencing others to speak up as well.