“Horror, how hot… but for some reason I want sex.” Let's face it – this is a thought that many people have caught during a heat wave. On the one hand, the body craves a cold shower, a fan and shade. On the other – sexual desire seems stronger than usual. Coincidence? Not really. There is a purely scientific and evolutionary explanation for this, which, it turns out, has a surprising amount in common with our passion for diving.
Biological Chemistry: Vitamin D and Dopamine
In the summer, our bodies work in a different way. Sunlight stimulates Vitamin D production, which is directly responsible for increasing testosterone (in both men and women) and estrogen levels. In addition, the sun and heat activate the “happiness hormones” – serotonin and dopamineWe feel more alive, freer and… more passionate.
Evolutionarily, summer has always been a time when nature awakens, resources are available, and energy levels are at their highest. It's no wonder that even at +30 degrees, the mind starts to wander to pleasant antics.
But why are we talking about this on a diving blog?
Because divers have their own, special “heat formula.” When the thermometer is at record highs, ordinary mortals sit in front of the air conditioners, but we put on our neoprene. And this is where the most interesting part begins.
- First, physical contact. Anyone who has tried to put on a 7mm wetsuit in the sun knows that it's a better workout than CrossFit. Sweat pours in, muscles work, and helping your partner zip up or hang up gear takes physical intimacy to the next level.
- Secondly, contrast. The feeling when you finally slip into the cool water of the Baltic Sea or a quarry is pure euphoria. The body experiences a pleasant shock. Blood circulation accelerates, the receptor system literally “explodes” from the abundance of sensations. This irritation remains with us even after we come ashore.
- Third, nitrogen narcosis and adrenaline. Diving itself is a hormonal cocktail. The adrenaline we get underwater, the excitement of the explorer, and the mild euphoria provided by the depths work as a natural aphrodisiac.
Post-diving syndrome
After a good swim, when the salt water dries on your skin and the sun starts to warm you up again, your body is maximally relaxed, and your mind is recharged. There is no better place and time for romance than a quiet lakeside or beach after a successful wreck-hunting or ghost-netting expedition. You have accomplished something great, your partner looks great (even with slightly disheveled hair and a mask on his face), and the summer heat is taking its toll.
So, next time you find yourself thinking this during a heat wave, don't be surprised. It's nature calling. And you know what's the best way to combine heat, passion, and the coldest adventure?
Prepare your equipment, grab your significant other and go diving. Because underwater we are weightless, but on shore we are ready to live life to the fullest.
Safety note (because we are divers after all): No matter how hot it is on the beach and in your heart, remember to stay hydrated! Drink water before and after your swim… and in between other activities.
See you underwater!
