There are quite a few advantages to indulging in masturbation and it’s time to remove the stigma related to it.
Cultural, religious and societal norms have long portrayed masturbation as a shameful or immoral act, leading many individuals to feel Fault or feeling ashamed to get entangled. This stigmawhich is very hard on women, is deeply rooted in historical misunderstandings and misinformation that portray masturbation in a negative light.
However, solo sex is a natural and healthy a part of human sexuality, and incorporating it into your self-care routine may be an empowering practice. Beyond physical pleasure, masturbation offers quite a few psychological and physical health advantages.
According to research, there are two powerful advantages of masturbation.
1. It evokes positive emotions in stressful times
A 2024 study published in International Journal of Sexual Health studied women’s masturbation as a coping strategy and located that higher levels of psychological stress were related to higher frequency of clitoral self-stimulation. The researchers found that whatever the style of stimulation, this was a helpful coping strategy that promoted positive emotional states resembling happiness and leisure.
“Masturbation is a safe, free, and accessible form of sexual activity that does not depend on the availability or emotional interaction with another person. As a solo activity, it is less likely to arouse performance or evaluation concerns that can arise during sexual activity with a partner. Instead, women can focus fully on themselves,” the researchers write.
This lack of pressure may be particularly useful during stressful times when one already feels overwhelmed by expectations in other areas of their life. It may also promote a way of empowerment when an individual feels uncontrolled of their current circumstances. It serves as a reminder that individuals are in command of their very own bodies and might experience joy and emotional relief no matter external aspects.
Masturbation may also improve mental and physical health by improving mood, Support stress reductionSleep and pain treatment.
2. It helps you connect together with your body
Masturbation can play a crucial role in self-discovery and experiencing bodily autonomy. It allows individuals to explore their bodies, discover what gives them pleasure, and communicate their sexual needs and preferences to their partners. This process promotes a deeper reference to one’s body.
Additionally, Research shows that being “sexually mindful,” which suggests being non-judgmental and fully present during sexual experiences, is linked to greater sexual satisfaction and self-esteem. This highlights the importance of slowing all the way down to construct a reference to yourself and your partner.
One 12 months 2022 study Published in Sexuality and culture In addition, higher masturbation frequency has been found to be related to lower levels of body shame and body guilt, in addition to greater appreciation for one’s body. This healing effect on body image can significantly improve mental health.
Importantly, the researchers of the 2024 study indicate that when using masturbation as a coping strategy, it is vital to think concerning the underlying motive for using it. It is more useful to actively use it as a self-care tool alongside other emotional coping strategies than to easily use it as a distraction during stressful times without confronting one’s own challenges.
Solo sex is a natural and useful practice that ought to be recognized as a beneficial technique of self-care. By addressing and breaking down the stigma around masturbation, we are able to pave the way in which for a more informed and accepting societal attitude towards it. It’s time to interrupt the silence, have honest conversations about sexual health and wellness, and honor the role masturbation plays in our well-being.
Curious about your attitude toward your personal sexuality? Try this scale to achieve a deeper understanding: Short scale on sexual attitudes
