Yet another reason to add some sizzle between the sheets: A frisky romp might very well improve your long-term memory, thanks to a surge of feel-good brain chemicals. A recent German study of 32 older adults found that participants shown a series of photos recalled 20% more images six hours after taking Levodopa—an amino acid that triggers the release of the chemical dopamine—compared to those given a placebo. “Dopamine affects proteins in the hippocampus, an area of the brain important for long-term memory,” says lead study author Rumana Chowdhury, a PhD candidate at the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London. “Our study shows that dopamine can rescue memories that may have faded otherwise.” (Speaking of which, where did you put that lingerie?) Researchers aren’t yet sure how much dopamine the drug triggers. Regardless, there are plenty of simple, natural ways to boost that happy chemical. Here’s how: Try a new sex position Doing something exciting and unpredictable triggers the release of dopamine. And yes, this means the chemical also has downsides: Dopamine has been linked to infidelity and drug addiction, and even explains why you’re still attracted to the wrong men. But there’s a sexier way to get the rush: Try one of these mind-blowing sex positions to catalyze a dopamine surge. Crank up the Adele Or any artist who gives you the chills. People experience an increase of dopamine right before they have a song-induced “chill” according to a Canadian study. “Even anticipating a pleasurable part of music can release dopamine,” says lead study author Valorie Salimpoor, a PhD. candidate at McGill University. Face your fears “Dopamine is released when you encounter new situations,” says Chowdhury. So jump back into the dating game after your divorce, sign up for your first 5K (don’t worry: it’s simple with our Ultimate Zero-To-5K Training Plan), or commit to that pixie haircut you talked yourself out of. Bonus: Thanks to dopamine, you’ll remember that triumph over terror for years to come. More from Prevention: How To Boost Your Brain 24 Hours A Day
