Christina Aguilera Feeling 'Sexier Than Ever'

By Nicholas White

09/26/2008 at 01:00 PM EDT

Has motherhood slowed down Christina Aguilera? Hardly.

"I feel great," singer-songwriter, 27, told PEOPLE at Thursday's Esquire House opening night gala with Rock the Vote, in Beverly Hills. "Sexier than ever."

Her secret: Wisdom. "I think it is sexier to be more knowledgeable about life, growing from your experiences, growing into a woman or person – if you do learn from your lessons, that is."

Aguilera said being a mom to 8-month-old Max is "first and foremost" in her life. But she still makes time for herself.

"It is really important to me that I don't lose myself. I still do things that make me feel good. I let my son experience who I am – as an artist, as a musician, things that I love and am passionate about."

She added, "That can encourage him to be passionate about things he might enjoy in the culture. It's always good to give those lessons."

This fall marks Aguilera's 10th year in the music industry. A greatest hits CD, Keeps Gettin' Better – A Decade of Hits, is due out Nov. 11 (and will be sold exclusively at Target).

"A decade later, I am happier and wiser," Aguilera said with a smile. "I've had a blast … It keeps getting better."

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