Raphael Stevens

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    11 must-try aesthetic homegrown cafés to visit on Eid day

    Life

    Dubai is never short of homegrown local eateries, that come with rich history and a story. When it comes to homegrown the UAE is always proud to create concepts that scale and eventually open up in other parts of the world.
    From the best brews to traditional delectable delights, these local cafés have grown immensely over the years amongst both tourists and residents.
    Whether you’re looking for a quaint space to unwind or to simply catch-up with your friends, we’ve got you covered. We know that each cafe’s kitchens and cooking styles is built around four key pillars of authenticity, diversity, accessibility and value.
    Overall, homegrown cafés offer a unique charm and personal touch that often sets them apart from larger, chain establishments. These homegrown cafes typically emphasise quality, community, and local culture.
    With an emphasis on high-quality coffee and food, often with specialty coffee roasts and artisanal baked goods. They ensure a key focus always lies on fine attention-to-detail, to reflect the owner’s personality or local culture.
    By regularly host community events, such as open mic nights, art shows, and book clubs, they enhance the community’s wellbeing and continually grow it with more interactive evenings.
    So, if you’re looking for spots to unwind at, why not visit these local cafés that have made a mark for themselves in the F&B space.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @parkacoffee More

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    Eid Al Adha Escapes: 7 free nature escapes to beat the city blues on Eid day

    Life

    43 seconds ago

    Staying in the UAE for the long weekend this Eid Al Adha? Skip the crowded malls and predictable staycation spots – the real magic lies just beyond the city limits.
    While everyone’s scrambling for brunch reservations, you could be kayaking through turquoise mountain waters, walking through whispering mangrove forests, or discovering surreal salt lakes that look straight out of a fantasy novel. Best part? All these experiences come with a price tag of zero dirhams.

    This Eid, trade skyscrapers for starry skies and traffic noise for birdsong at these breathtaking natural escapes – all within easy reach of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. No flights needed, just your sense of adventure and maybe a picnic basket. Here’s where to find that “I can’t believe this is the UAE” feeling without leaving the country:
    Al Wathba Salt Lake

    Just a short drive from Abu Dhabi, this otherworldly landscape has taken social media by storm. The lake’s crystalline waters contrast dramatically with its mushroom-like salt formations, creating optical illusions that change with the sunlight. Arrive at sunrise or sunset for the most magical lighting, when the salt crystals sparkle like diamonds. Don’t forget your camera – the geometric salt patterns make for extraordinary photographs that will leave your followers in awe.
    Hatta Dam

    Nestled in the Hajar Mountains, this man-made reservoir offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the UAE. The vibrant turquoise waters against the rugged mountain backdrop create a scene reminiscent of European alpine lakes. Rent a kayak (available for reasonable prices) or simply enjoy the view from one of the many picnic spots. Adventurous visitors can hike up to the famous Hatta Hill sign for panoramic views that stretch all the way to Oman on clear days.
    Jubail Mangrove Park

    This protected ecosystem showcases the UAE’s delicate coastal beauty. The 2km boardwalk takes you through dense mangrove forests where you might spot flamingos wading in the shallows or turtles surfacing for air. Visit during high tide to see the mangroves in their full glory, when the water completely submerges their intricate root systems. The park offers free entry on weekdays, making it an ideal weekday escape during the Eid Al Adha break.
    Snoopy Island

    Named for its distinctive shape resembling the beloved cartoon character, this marine sanctuary offers some of the best snorkeling in the country. The shallow waters near the shore are perfect for beginners, while more experienced swimmers can explore the deeper areas teeming with colorful coral formations. Keep an eye out for the resident sea turtles that frequently surface near the island’s eastern side.
    Al Hayer Forest

    This unexpected green oasis in the middle of the desert is one of the UAE’s best-kept secrets. The dense concentration of ghaf and samar trees provides welcome shade during hot days, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic. As evening falls, the forest comes alive with the sounds of desert wildlife – you might even spot an Arabian hare, desert fox or a camel if you’re quiet and patient.
    Love Lakes & Moon Lake

    The interlocking heart-shaped lakes of Al Qudra are even more enchanting in person than in photographs. Walk along the sandy paths that wind between the lakes, or rent a bike to explore the surrounding desert landscape. Nearby Moon Lake, shaped like its namesake, offers a more secluded experience. Time your visit for early morning to potentially spot the graceful Arabian oryx that have been reintroduced to the area.
    Wadi Shees

    This mountain valley offers a rare opportunity to experience flowing freshwater in the UAE. The well-maintained walking trail follows an ancient falaj (irrigation system) through date palm groves and past traditional stone houses. For the more adventurous, side trails lead to hidden pools and waterfalls that are particularly refreshing after rare rainy periods.
    Pro Tips for Your Eid Nature Adventure
    Early mornings (6-9am) offer the most comfortable temperatures and best wildlife viewing opportunities.Many locations have limited facilities, so bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends during holiday periods.Consider combining visits to nearby locations (like Love Lakes and Al Qudra Lakes) for a full day of exploration.

    This Eid Al Adha, embrace the spirit of adventure and discovery by exploring these natural treasures. Whether you’re seeking peaceful reflection, family bonding time, or thrilling outdoor activities, the UAE’s diverse landscapes offer something for everyone. Pack your sense of wonder along with your picnic basket, and prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty that exists just beyond our urban centers.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram More

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    10 luxurious UAE staycations to enjoy this Eid Al Adha

    Life

    14 seconds ago

    From gliding through silent mangrove forests by private boat to waking in a Santorini-inspired villa suspended above turquoise waters, the UAE’s most exceptional staycations transform ordinary weekends into extraordinary escapes.
    Whether you crave the romance of a desert fort under star-filled skies, the thrill of an overwater retreat where flamingos skim the waves, or the serenity of a palm-fringed lagoon, these addresses deliver singular experiences—all just a short journey from home.
    Below, we unveil 10 of the most extraordinary boutique staycation spots across the emirates, each a masterpiece of design, service, and location, proving beyond doubt that sometimes the most remarkable journeys are the shortest.
    Here are our favorite staycation spots in the UAE

    In a country that redefines luxury at every turn, these exceptional escapes prove the UAE does staycations better than anywhere else. Whether you seek avant-garde design, untouched nature, or pure indulgence, your perfect staycation awaits—no passport required.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Supplied More

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    6 hotels with a private jacuzzi to unwind in Dubai

    Life

    Thinking of soak amidst the bubbles? A myriad of hotels in Dubai have a spa-like ambience with private jacuzzi in the room or private facility for a duo.
    As romantic getaways gain more popularity in Dubai, you can now make the most of the hotel room you’ve splashed out on and celebrate staying in with your significant other, in style.
    To help you bliss out on the ultimate city staycation this year, we’ve uncovered some of the best Dubai Hotels with hot tubs in the rooms for a night.
    Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

    Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai offers a range of stylish and luxurious suites featuring private jacuzzis, perfect for a chic beachside escape. The Two-Bedroom Ultra and Ultimate Sea View Suites boast expansive terraces with outdoor jacuzzis overlooking the Arabian Gulf, alongside spacious living and dining areas, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sleek contemporary décor. These suites provide a blend of comfort and exclusivity, ideal for those seeking a laid-back yet elevated experience. For the ultimate indulgence, the resort’s villas offer even more space, with some featuring private pools and premium sea views—though the suites remain the go-to option for those specifically looking for a private jacuzzi. Prices for this room start at Dhs6,120++
    For more information visit dubai.nikkibeach.com
    Taj Exotica The Palm

    This property offers luxurious suites featuring private open-air jacuzzis with stunning Arabian Gulf views. The Grand Luxury Suite Sea View with Open Jacuzzi spans 120 square meters and includes a spacious living area, dining room, separate kitchen, and a terrace with a jacuzzi. The Exotica Suite Sea View with Open Jacuzzi offers 165 square meters of space, featuring a separate bedroom and living room, kitchenette, and a private terrace with a jacuzzi overlooking the sea. Both suites provide exclusive access to the Taj Club Lounge, enhancing the luxurious experience. Prices start at Dhs4,400++ for the open jacuzzi room.
    Atlantis The Royal

    At Atlantis The Royal, several of the premium suites and signature accommodations feature private jacuzzis or infinity-edge hot tubs—designed to maximize relaxation while offering breathtaking views over the Arabian Gulf or Palm Jumeirah. These jacuzzis are typically located on expansive terraces, allowing guests to unwind in complete privacy with panoramic city or ocean views, especially stunning at sunset. The Sky Pool Villa and Sky Terrace Suite are among the top-tier accommodations where you’ll find these luxurious outdoor spa tubs, seamlessly integrated into the design alongside private pools. Inside, bathrooms in even the standard rooms boast deep standalone soaking tubs with spa-like ambiance, but for a true jacuzzi experience, booking a suite or villa is the way to go. With butler service on hand, your jacuzzi can even be prepared with aromatherapy or rose petals for an ultra-luxe, personalized soak. Prices start at Dhs4,617++
    For more information visit atlantis.com
    Address Sky View

    At Address Sky View in Dubai, while the guest suites themselves do not feature private jacuzzis, the hotel offers luxurious spa experiences that include private jacuzzi facilities. Notably, The Spa at Address Sky View provides private spa suites equipped with jacuzzis offering stunning views of the Burj Khalifa. Guests can indulge in packages that combine jacuzzi time with bespoke massages and dining options on the terrace. For example, the “Private Jacuzzi Time at the Spa” package includes a 60-minute private jacuzzi session accompanied by a bespoke massage and a three-course dinner for two. Additionally, the spa features a couples’ suite with a private jacuzzi, ideal for romantic experiences. It’s open daily from 10am to 10pm and is prices at Dhs500 per hour for the jacuzzi only.
    For more information visit addresshotels.com
    Anantara The Palm

    Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort offers luxurious accommodations featuring private pools and direct beach access. These villas provide an intimate retreat with spacious interiors, including king-size beds and oversized bathtubs. Guests can enjoy the convenience of a villa host, ensuring personalized service throughout their stay. The villas’ outdoor areas are designed for relaxation and privacy, allowing guests to unwind in their private pools while taking in views of the Arabian Gulf.The one bedroom over water villa starts at Dhs5,498++.
    For more information visit anantara.com
    FIVE Jumeirah Village

    Here guests can indulge in luxurious accommodations featuring jacuzzis, with options like the Junior Suite with Jacuzzi offering a private terrace and spacious living areas for ultimate relaxation. For those looking for even more opulence, the Master Suite with Pool includes a private jacuzzi, an urban jungle terrace, and a cozy living area, perfect for unwinding. The Sky Villas take luxury a step further, boasting private pools and expansive terraces where guests can enjoy a lavish experience. Whether for a romantic getaway or a chic staycation, the jacuzzi rooms at FIVE Jumeirah Village offer the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. The suite prices start at Dhs668.
    For more information visit jumeirahvillage.fivehotelsandresorts.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Pinterest More

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    5 key tips to nourish your body and soul while fasting on Arafat Day

    Life

    51 seconds ago

    Fasting during Arafat Day is a significant spiritual practice for Muslims around the world. It involves abstaining from food and drinks from dawn until sunset, on the day before Eid Al Adha.
    While fasting, individuals focus on prayer, reflection, and self-discipline. Here are five tips to help make fasting on Arafat Day a spiritually fulfilling and physically manageable experience.
    Hydration is Key

    Begin your fast with a balanced suhoor meal that includes plenty of fluids and hydrating foods such as fruits and vegetables. Drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours to prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks, as they can cause thirst.
    Eat Nutritious Foods

    Opt for wholesome, nutrient-rich meals during iftar (breaking the fast) to replenish your body’s energy levels. Include complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats to sustain you throughout the fasting period. Avoid overeating or indulging in heavy, greasy foods, which can lead to discomfort and sluggishness.
    Moderate Physical Activity

    While intense exercise may be challenging during fasting hours, light physical activity such as walking or gentle stretching can help maintain energy levels and promote overall well-being. Listen to your body and avoid strenuous activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
    Prioritize Rest and Sleep

    Ensure you get adequate rest and sleep during Ramadan to support your body’s fasting process. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night and consider taking short naps during the day if needed. Establish a bedtime routine to promote relaxation and quality sleep.
    Focus on Spiritual Growth
    Use the opportunity of Ramadan to deepen your connection with your faith. Allocate time each day for spiritual reflection and self-improvement. Engage in community iftars and taraweeh prayers to foster a sense of unity and solidarity with fellow Muslims.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Pexel & Unsplash, Feature Image: Instagram @futurebedouin More

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    Having trouble sleeping over the long weekend? Here’s all you need to know

    Life

    21 seconds ago

    Many of us spend more time trying to fall asleep rather than actually sleeping.
    The number of hours recommended by experts for sleep depends on your age. However, most people need at least 7 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. Just the act of trying too hard to fall asleep may cause wreak an air of anxious, nerve-wracking energy that keeps you awake. If your mind can’t sleep, it’s difficult for your body to follow, too.
    To delve into the subject of sleeping well, the wellbeing practitioners from Patina Maldives‘ award winning FLOW Spa, have shared these expert tips to help enhance your sleep quality, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
    From dietary choices to relaxation techniques, designed to help you drift off more easily and enjoy a deeper, more restorative slumber.
    Eat Right to Sleep Tight
    Your diet can significantly impact your sleep quality. Incorporating certain foods into your evening routine can promote relaxation and help you fall asleep faster. Kiwi, cherries, milk, fatty fish, nuts, and rice have been found to aid in relaxation and sleep. These foods are rich in nutrients that support the production of sleep-regulating hormones, making them perfect additions to your dinner or pre-bedtime snack.

    Chamomile as a Sleep-Inducer
    Chamomile tea has long been revered for its calming properties. Drinking one cup of chamomile tea about 45 minutes before bed can help induce sleepiness. Additionally, chamomile essential oil, when diffused in the air, releases a subtle floral aroma that has a calming and relaxing effect on the mind. Incorporating chamomile into your nightly routine can create a soothing atmosphere conducive to sleep.

    Breathing Techniques
    Breathing exercises can be a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation before bed. The 4-7-8 breathing technique, also known as relaxing breath, involves a rhythmic pattern of inhaling, holding the breath, and exhaling. This technique helps calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep. To practice, exhale completely through your mouth, then inhale quietly through your nose for a count of 4, hold for a count of 7, and exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of 8. Repeat this cycle around six times before returning to normal breathing.
    Progressive Muscle Relaxation Against Insomnia
    Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is an effective method for reducing physical tension and promoting relaxation. This technique involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in the body. Find a comfortable position, either sitting or lying down, where you won’t be disturbed for 10-15 minutes. Focus on each muscle group, tensing for five seconds while breathing in, then releasing and relaxing. Repeat the process for each muscle group, gradually using less tension each time. This practice can help you release the day’s stress and prepare your body for restful sleep.
    Warm Bath
    Taking a hot shower or bath 90 minutes before bed can significantly improve your ability to fall asleep. The warm water helps you unwind, and as your body cools down afterward, it triggers your circadian rhythms to signal that it’s time to sleep. This cooling-down process promotes a natural decline in core body temperature, which is essential for falling asleep quickly and enjoying deep, restorative sleep.
    Here’s what can help enhance your sleep routine…

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @patinamaldives & Feature Image: Unsplash @Kinga Howard More

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    6 Dubai wellness hubs that double up as social clubs

    Dubai’s vibrant landscape has lately been witnessing a boom in the wellness scene. In recent years, a new wave of wellness destinations has emerged, moving beyond traditional spas and gyms to embrace a more holistic and community-focused approach. These innovative spaces recognize that true well-being encompasses not just physical health, but also mental and emotional balance, as well as meaningful social connections. From cutting-edge fitness studios and recovery centers to serene yoga retreats and social hubs, Dubai now offers a diverse array of experiences designed to nourish the mind, body, and soul. These destinations are not just places to work out or get a massage; they are sanctuaries where individuals can escape the stresses of modern life, connect with like-minded people, and start a transformative journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
    6 Dubai-based wellness spots to enroll in 2025:
    The PEAQ Club

    PEAQ, a social wellness club in Dubai, offers a unique sanctuary where fitness, recovery, and community converge. This innovative space, inspired by traditional communal wellness practices, provides a haven for individuals seeking to escape the fast-paced city life and prioritize their well-being. With a focus on holistic health, PEAQ offers a diverse range of services, including high-intensity workouts like Lagree Method, rejuvenating recovery treatments like ice baths and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and calming practices such as breathwork and sound healing. Beyond physical wellness, PEAQ fosters social connections through its in-house café, providing a welcoming environment for members to relax, work, and socialize. By combining cutting-edge fitness techniques with traditional healing practices and a strong sense of community, PEAQ redefines the concept of wellness, offering a transformative experience for those who seek a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
    Sage Wellness

    Sage Wellness & Yoga is an oasis dedicated to well-being. This holistic retreat offers a range of services designed to nourish the mind, body, and soul. From invigorating yoga classes catering to all levels, including ladies-only sessions, to a luxurious spa featuring a sauna, hammam, and plunge pool, Sage provides a serene escape. The spa also offers a variety of massages, including body, facial, osteopathic, myofascial, and firming treatments. For those seeking healthy nourishment, the on-site café offers delectable and wholesome meals, gluten-free and sugar-free desserts, and refreshing drinks. The rooftop, with its stunning views of the city skyline, is a versatile space ideal for private events or serene yoga sessions under the open sky. 
    Clinique La Prairie 

    The Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie has opened its doors in Dubai, marking the first of its kind in the UAE. This exclusive wellness center, located within the luxurious One&Only One Za’abeel, offers a unique blend of science and holistic wellness. The Hub offers a wide range of treatments, including Neuro Wave Stimulation, Cryotherapy, Far Infrared, and IV Drips, as well as aesthetic procedures like Mesotherapy, Hyaluronic Acid, and Botox. Guests can also indulge in detoxifying treatments like Underwater Hydro Jet Massage, Anti-Pollution Facials, and Lymphatic Face Drainage. The Longevity Index lounge provides personalized wellness assessments, while the Movement Studio offers state-of-the-art fitness facilities, including a wide range of workout options to help guests maintain their fitness goals. Exclusive membership programs are available, offering year-round access to the Hub’s comprehensive wellness services.
    Matcha Club

    Matcha Club, an Al Quoz-based boutique social hub, merges padel, wellness, lifestyle, and culture. The club’s chic Californian-inspired design features six padel courts, two movement rooms, and a new reformer Pilates studio with seven machines, all surrounded by lush greenery and serene outdoor courtyards. Guests can indulge in a variety of classes including vinyasa yoga, ashtanga, sound healing, candlelit yoga, and reformer Pilates. The club also houses a retail store featuring Matcha Club merchandise and activewear brands, as well as brunch spot Nette, offering a unique fusion of French-Japanese cuisine. Recently, Matcha Club launched Capsule, a new initiative that celebrates and showcases art, music, and fashion, fostering a sense of community through unexpected spaces.
    SIRO One Za’abeel

    SIRO One Za’abeel is a pioneering fitness and recovery hotel located within the iconic One Za’abeel development. This innovative facility offers a paradigm-shifting  experience focused on optimizing mental and physical well-being. The hotel boasts a state-of-the-art Fitness Lab featuring specialized studios for HIIT, cycling, yoga, and Pilates, along with a diverse range of group classes led by expert instructors. Signature classes like Power, Sculpt, and Booty sessions, developed in-house, offer immersive experiences with interactive visual engagement and functional performance training. The Recovery Lab, situated on the 31st floor, offers a serene escape with a focus on mindfulness practices, holistic therapies, and advanced treatments like IV therapy, red light therapy, and cryotherapy. The hotel also prioritizes nutrition with a curated dining experience, including a grab-and-go Refuel Bar, in-room modular dining, and personalized meal plans. SIRO One Za’abeel sets a new standard in wellness hospitality, offering a holistic approach that combines technology, personalized guidance, and a luxurious setting to empower people to unlock their peak potential.
    Banyan Tree Spa 

    Banyan Tree Dubai has unveiled its newly reimagined spa, offering a serene sanctuary for holistic wellness. The spa seamlessly integrates the 8 Pillars of Wellbeing, with a focus on connection, growth, groundedness, nourishment, rest, movement, practice, and mindfulness. The spa features a signature Rainforest experience, combining Asian wellbeing philosophies with European hydrotherapy practices. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of state-of-the-art facilities, including vitality pools, heated loungers, and private treatment suites. The spa’s expert therapists offer bespoke treatments rooted in ancient Asian traditions, emphasizing the healing power of touch and natural ingredients. Beyond the spa, the hotel’s renovated health and fitness facilities, including the Wellbeing Studio and Wellbeing Deck, provide opportunities for visitors to engage in physical activity and practice mindfulness.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    A New Study Shows Sex Before Bed Is Linked With Better Sleep. Here’s Why

    Finding the perfect recipe for a good night’s sleep can feel pretty complicated. Experts have recommended everything from keeping your bedroom cool at night, to sticking with consistent sleep and wake times, to avoiding screens for hours before bed. But you can now add a much simpler sleep-enhancing hack to the list: Have sex.That’s the major takeaway from a new study published in the journal Sleep Health. This is a pilot study, so the findings are preliminary, but they raise a lot of questions about how sexual activity may help us sleep better and whether you should consider this move for yourself. Here’s what the study found, plus what doctors want you to keep in mind.Meet the experts: W. Christopher Winter, MD, a neurologist and sleep medicine physician with Charlottesville Neurology and Sleep Medicine and host of the Sleep Unplugged podcast; Jessica O’Reilly, PhD, relationship expert and Astroglide’s sexologist; Jennifer Wider, MD.What Did The Pilot Study Find?For the study, researchers recruited seven heterosexual couples who were healthy, sexually active and living together in Australia. The participants, who were in their mid-20s, all reported that they had sex at least twice a week.The researchers monitored the participants over 11 nights, and asked them to do three different things: Have no sexual activity, engage in solo sex that ended in an orgasm, and have partnered sex that ended in an orgasm. To measure their sleep, the participants wore a wireless headband to track their brain activity, movement and breathing overnight. They also filled out diaries every morning to track their sexual activity, sleep quality, mood and feelings of readiness for the day ahead.The researchers discovered all kinds of interesting things. On nights when the participants had sex, they went to bed later than on nights with no sex. But they also spent about seven minutes less being awake during the night after they conked out, and spent a larger amount of their time in bed actually sleeping (basically, they had good sleep efficiency). In general, sleep efficiency was 93.2 percent after masturbation and 93.4 percent after partnered sex, while it was 91.5 percent on nights when people didn’t have sex.Worth noting: The participants didn’t notice any big differences in how well they thought they slept – this is just what the sleep tracking data found. That said, the participants reported feeling more motivated and ready for their day the morning after having partnered sex than when they abstained.READ MORE: 27 Insanely Hot Moves That Will Change Your Sex Life ForeverWhy Might Sexual Activity Help Us Sleep Better?It’s important to point out that this isn’t the first study to link sex before bed to better sleep. A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research had people keep a diary for 14 days and found that those who had partnered sex that ended in orgasm fell asleep faster and reported having better sleep quality than those who didn’t have sex before bed. But the latest study actually showed that there were improvements in sleep quality.There are probably a few things going on to result in this positive sleep effect, according to W. Christopher Winter. “The first is probably related to the chemical changes brought about by orgasm,” he says. “The hormone oxytocin – which is released after you have an orgasm – acts as a natural sedative,” he says.In addition to oxytocin, the hormone prolactin is released after orgasm, leading to a relaxed feeling, says women’s health expert Jennifer Wider, MD. All of those factors combined “can definitely enhance sleepiness,” she says.From a more holistic view, sex is usually a stress-relieving activity, so it may be that people felt more ready to fall asleep afterwards, Dr. Winter says. And it may also just quiet down your mind, says Jessica O’Reilly. “Post-orgasm, decreased activity in brain regions like the amygdala and cingulate cortex reduces arousal and emotional stimulation,” she says. That can also make it easier to fall asleep, she points out.READ MORE: Struggle Sleeping? Here’s How To Create A Bedtime Routine, Per ExpertsWhat Else Can Sex Do For Our Brains?A lot, actually. “During arousal and orgasm, you may experience elevated levels of dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins, which can elevate mood, reduce stress and assuage anxiety,” O’Reilly says. “Natural opioids released during sex can also make you more resilient to pain, like headaches and cramps.”Ultimately, if you have the option to have sex or not and you want to ensure you’ll get a good night’s sleep, it may be best to get down with a partner before bed. “Sex in general contributes to positive emotional feelings and contentment, which is where you want to be in the moment before sleep,” Dr. Winter says. “Feeling that sense of being connected is a great way to head to sleep.”This article by Korin Miller was originally published on Women’s Health US. More