*NOTE: We do not condone smoking. The purpose of this article is merely to explore the relationship between smoking and post-coital relaxation. Please remember that smoking is a dangerous health hazard that can have longlasting and damaging effects on the human body.

So... what's the deal with this seemingly common phenomenon that we seem to see on TV, in movies, and on billboards?

We see it in Fight Club. After Tyler Durden and Marla finish yet another session of loud fornicating into the wee hours of the morning, they both lay down and light up.

We see it in Mad Men. Don Draper cooly procures a cigarette after making love to yet another one of his lady friends. 

We see it in Road House. Dalton makes it look like the most badass thing that has ever existed on this planet, and that we all have to try it.

It appears as if it is all over. But is there actually a reason for it? Is it that a smoker's body merely is low on nicotine, and now they simply need a booster-cig to get back up to speed? Or, if we'd try it, would we discover that we all just adore a big fat smoke after a hot, sweaty pounding? Let's find out!

Cigarettes and Coffee go Together Like Icecream and Pie

It is often said that Cigarettes and Coffee go together like ice cream and pie. Already a delicious and mouthwatering treat on its own--but together--orgasmic. Pun intended. So, is "Cigarettes and Sex," akin to this delectable duo? Or are they two different but alluring pleasures, working synergistically together to create a euphoric neurotransmitter-soup in our brains?

Through my research, if you can call it that, I've come to two smoldering conclusions.

It's just the fix

Smokers do as smokers do. Ate breakfast? Have a smoke break. Five minutes between class? Have a smoke break. Your shifts over? Have a smoke break, you earned it, champ.

Like all other points in life, a smoker just needs their fix. A lovemaking session can last anywhere from 10-45 minutes (or hours!) and just like how we all need a sip of water throughout the day, a smoker needs their rejuvenating hit of nicotine.

It is worth noting, however, that the easing of this very slight nicotine withdrawal may be disguising this entire phenomenon as something more spectacular than it truly is.

Heightens the Experience 

On the other hand, many people enjoy more than an elementary cigarette after some funny business. Some enjoy a hit off the ol' vaporizer. Others, a joint. And others still, a dip.

Does this mean that something else could be going on here?

Indeed it does. This is most likely because the hormones and neurotransmitters released post-orgasm are enhanced when nicotine enters the system. In layman's terms, as a person's body reaches the end of the sexual arousal cycle, the nicotine now entering the body helps further the relaxation occurring within the brain via its own bodily ingredients.

The Verdict?

I'm gonna be that guy. It's a mix of both.

When a smoker engages in any activity, whether that's running, eating, or in our case, intercourse, the time they've had between cigarettes will be ever so slightly increasing as the day wears on. This means that during a 30-45 minute fornication-sesh, their body will be approaching a minor withdrawal that will then be alleviated by the next shot of nicotine.

Yet at the same time, this cigarette may become doubly pleasurable because of the post-orgasm hormones and neurotransmitters currently circulating throughout the body.

Dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, oxytocin, and more making up a yummy chemical brew.

And for a non-smoker?

This cigarette can be a terrific one. With no need to alleviate an on-setting withdrawal of any sort, having no tolerance to nicotine, and coupled with the present feel-good body chemicals, it can feel amazing.

So there you have it

If you're a smoker, this is old news.

And if you're a non-smoker? Don't get yourself hooked, but if you're looking for another bedroom novelty to explore, be sure to stop at Seven Eleven on your way back from work.

If you liked this article, be sure to share with your friends and subscribe for more.

Questions? Drop a comment below and I'd love to dialogue with you!

Your Pal,

Alex