Marvin Gaye may have been on to more than just a classic song when he made “Sexual Healing,” as science has proved that there are actually many physical and psychological benefits that come from having healthy, consensual sex.

Dr. Dennis J. Garcia, Senior Associate Medical Director for WSU Health and Wellness Services, said that the healthiest way to start off talking about sexual benefits is to realize that sex is part of life.

“We wouldn’t be here without sex,” he said. Garcia added that sexual activity carries a different meaning for all, and people need to respect that.

Garcia said that when speaking from a medical standpoint, sex with a consenting partner can create feelings of acceptance, well-being, and value in our society. From a more physiological standpoint, he said sex can help in stress-reduction and can be considered exercise. Smith said that sex is even beneficial to the long-term structural integrity of female genitalia.

Professor of psychology Laurie J. Smith-Nelson said it is important to note that sex can be equally destructive as it is beneficial and that these benefits come from sex that is mutually consensual.

“Sex is important to the health of the individual and the relationship,” Smith said.

Purely physical benefits aside, Smith said that sex floods your body with endorphins – the “feel-good” chemical in your brain – and increases positivity in relationships. Smith said your brain releases neurochemicals like oxytocin and endorphins that create feelings of closeness and happiness with your partner

Garcia said there was no set amount of sex that was best for an individual to have but that the average monogamous couple engages in the act a few times a week. Smith said what is ideal is that two people in a partnership are well matched in their levels of sexual desire, but healthy relationships are compromises.

Garcia said that there can be such a thing as too much sex where things slip into the realm of sex addiction. Garcia said that sex addiction is like being addicted to other things in that it becomes an issue when the individual’s sex life is interfering with other important parts of their life. However, Garcia said if everything is balanced then sex is full of benefits both physical and psychological.

“Being balanced in the key to a healthy lifestyle,” Garcia said.

Self-proclaimed sex fan Aidan Terry, a senior majoring in fine arts, said he feels more at peace when he’s had sex and that it is a perfect way to end the day. Besides feeling good and helping him with stress, he said sex is a great connective experience for two people to have.

“For those who haven’t had sex, do it, but make sure it is with the right person,” Terry said.