Music has the ability to induce feelings of pleasure (Mallik, Chanda, and Levitin, 2017). It can also add to physical and psychological rewards when paired with a sexual encounter. Listening to music prompts the release of dopamine.
For many, that chemical response of pleasure acts to stimulate arousal and elevate a sexual interlude when music and sex are combined in a singular experience. Listening to music increases heart rate and breathing — both signs of arousal — and pleasure from music can prepare the body for sexual pleasure. According to neuropsychologist Dr. Rhonda Freeman, music has a direct effect on the pleasure, bonding, and limbic systems of the brain. Beyond the rush of dopamine produced, there are several socio-psychological benefits associated with the combination of sex and music.
9 Reasons Why Music Can Improve Sexual Experiences
- Music playing while having sex can diminish inhibition. There is a spontaneous and freeing feeling associated with listening to music. That can result in letting go of sexual inhibitions that may have held some individuals back from experiencing higher levels of sexual pleasure. Maybe it frees you up to be more spontaneous, adventurous, and try new things to increase the sexual experience. We know the effect music can have on inhibitions. After all, it is the very reason an entire town outlawed rock music and dancing in “Footloose.”
- Not only can music relax sexual inhibitions, but it has also been shown to reduce stress, which can hinder sexual arousal and pleasure.
- Listening to music during sex can curb nervousness and distract an individual from negative thoughts, such as concerns about their body image or performance.
- Apart from distraction, music can help one focus on the task at hand. And what partner doesn’t want their lover to be more focused on them?
- Music is bonding and a heightened sense of bonding with your partner increases intimacy and, as a result, sexual pleasure.
- Rhythms of the music can inspire rhythms in movement. A good rhythm to the music may aid in performance and increasing satisfaction. This is especially helpful if there has been a problem with movement being awkward in the past.
- Music, by itself, has many effects on our well-being apart from being a stress reliever. Listening to music can be a confidence builder. Confidence in bed promotes performance and satisfaction.
- Music can start things off right by putting you in the mood, especially if there are some issues with lower sex drive. Although, of course, issues with low sex drive may be indicative of a more serious issue that needs the involvement of health professionals and would not be solved by listening to your favorite recording artists.
- It’s not only physical arousal that can be heightened by including music in the sexual environment. Music contributes to an increase in emotional arousal, again benefiting the sexual experience.
Source: Psychology Today (2022) / Mallik, A., Chandra, M.L., & Levitin, D.J. (2017)
