IS SEX REALLY THE KEY TO HAPPINESS?

Having a satisfying sex life could keep us feeling young, reveals new research 

- VERONIQUE HAWKSWORTH

When we think of all the things that make us happy, we probably all bring up similar topics – family, friends, chocolate, holidays… Yet according to a new study, the key to happiness as we age is something that often falls to the bottom of the list of priorities when the stresses of everyday life take over: sex!

Research shows there’s a strong link between sexual satisfaction and overall satisfaction with life in those aged over 45, proving that a steamy sex life need not be the reserve of the young and energetic. Women’s libidos are thought to peak from the age of 30, but then taper off with age. However, can a good bedroom session really be the key to better managing our stress and having a more positive outlook on the future? One woman tells us how sex has transformed her life…

'I know the best is yet to come'  

Rebecca Dakin, 48, is an author, hypnotherapist, coach and a self-professed 'sexpert'.

Turning over my flip-chart, a group of red-faced women giggled. 'Any questions?' I grinned. As a professional sex educator, I was running one of my classes from my home in Nottingham.