A new study conducted by researchers from the University of Zurich, Switzerland has revealed that stress hormone levels are generally lower in married couples who have an intimate relationship.

About 51 German couples (mostly married) participated in the study. Their saliva was examined to determine the cortisol levels. Cortisol secreted by adrenal glands is an important hormone in the human body. Normally the cortisol levels are lowest at night and highest in the morning.

Cortisol also called the stress hormone, is know to be responsible for many stress related changes in the body.

Researchers found that couples who were very physically closer together (such as Kissing, Cuddling, Holding Hands and sexual relationship) had lower levels of stress hormones as compared with couples who did not. Interestingly intimate couples who had higher stress related to their work also showed decrease in their cortisol levels.

According to lead researcher Beate Ditzen, it is the positive feeling that each couples share which results in decreased stress hormone levels. Intimacy seems to boost the mood and thereby reduce stress levels. Beate added that intimacy cannot be defined since behavior differs from couple to couple, in fact any type of behavior that couples consider intimate may be beneficial.

Previous studies have also supported the findings, revealing the benefits of intimacy.