Dr. Partha Nandi, MD, FACP is a practicing physician, leading patient advocate, creator of “Ask Dr. Nandi”, and chief health editor at WXYZ (ABC) Detroit. Read on to learn Dr. Nandi’s advice on the health benefits of intimacy.

I’m issuing some serious doctor’s orders today. Ready? Here it is. Have more sex. Hug more. Kiss more. Make more time for intimacy. Can you handle that? I hope you’re up for the challenge because these actions do more than you might realize. You already know that they make you feel good (ok, amazing!) physically, but these acts of intimacy come with huge health benefits that go beyond the physical. And every aspiring HealthHero™ should know about them.

Intimacy is a key component to a healthy life. Every hug, every kiss, every touch triggers an emotional connection and strengthens your relationships. It builds trust and makes you feel valued. You create genuine partnerships and deepen the bonds you share with those you love. This is what intimacy is about. Yes, it’s about physical pleasure at times, but it’s those undeniable connections we make that impact our lives — and health — the most.

Getting intimate on a regular basis boosts your immune system. Your body’s defenses go to work and help you to fight off infection. Your risk for heart disease and prostate cancer decreases. If that isn’t reason enough, it’s been proven that frequently hugging people you love can lower your blood pressure almost as well as prescription medication. And if you want to improve your dental hygiene, pucker up for at least 30 seconds each day.

Check out our recent Facebook Live chat with Dr. Nandi at the Museum of Sex in New York City:

Healthy sexual relationships can prolong your life up to 8 years. Let that sink in. You get to enjoy a great relationship, have sex frequently … and live longer because of it. It just keeps getting better, doesn’t it? Being married increases your odds of living a longer and healthier life. Your spouse is a life partner, a tribe member. And those who have tribes live longer and suffer from fewer health ailments.

Less stress, better sleep, and more relaxation lead to a happier you. Orgasms, hugs, and kisses release feel-good hormones that give you a natural high and a feeling of closeness to those around you. Physically, your muscles relax and release tension. If you’re looking for an easy way to improve your health, I highly recommend giving someone a big hug after you’ve read this article.

Intimacy is a source of pleasure. It adds fun to your life (can you think of a more fun way to get exercise?). But its benefits go so much deeper. You’re building trust. You’re strengthening emotional bonds and showing your commitment to a partnership. Respect yourself, and extend that same respect to your partners, friends, and loved ones. And remember … have fun! You can enjoy these moments and improve your health at the same time! Add more intimacy to your life, wrap your arms around someone you love, share a passionate kiss with your sweetheart, and spend some quality time between the sheets! Doctor’s orders.

The light in me honors the light in you.

Namaste,

Dr. Nandi

This article was originally published on Ask Dr. Nandi.