5 reasons you are not having amazing sex

Most times, we blame our sexual partners for our inability to have great sex.

While they certainly play a role, sometimes, we have ourselves to blame for not achieving maximum sexual pleasure.

The following reasons show why you might not be having great sex.

Lack of sleep- You may not realise it, but not getting sleep prevents you from having great sex. According to a study in Brain Research, lack of adequate sleephas also been shown to have sexual repercussions—for both men and women. So, sleep well and your chances of having great sex will improve drastically.

Lack of exercise- According to Nicole Prause, PhD, founder of UCLA's Liberos Center, working out improves blood flow, which stimulates your sex organs, which uses brain stimulation to treat problems related to sexual desire. Eric Garrison, MSc, a clinical sexologist and author of Mastering Multiple-Position Sex says, "if you add just a 30-minute walk a day or begin a yoga practice, you'll have better sex than before you started." Also, working out gives you stamina, strength and flexibility, things that will enhance your sexual performance.

High alcoholic consumption- Research shows that much alcohol can lead to "inorgasmia," or the inability to orgasm, thereby, preventing you from having great sex. Also, chronic alcoholism has negative effects on sexual performance.

Smoking- Research from the Mayo Clinic shows that smoking affects your sex organs which prevents you from having great sex. Nicole adds, "smoking is strongly related to erectile dysfunction."

Lack of masturbation- "Masturbation helps you become more comfortable with what you like, and helps you express what you like to a partner," Eric says. Also, research from the Archives of Sexual Behavior suggests that masturbation may even fuel sexual desire.