19 / 08 / 2018
3 Minute Read

Masturbation: Why isn’t it that bad after all ?

 

Masturbation is often surrounded by myths and misconceptions, but in reality, as mentioned in one of my previous articles titled “Caught masturbating, and so what?”, masturbation is actually a natural and healthy part of human sexuality.

I know, many of you do disagree with me. Nevertheless, let me share my point of view on this topic and why I believe that masturbation (whether practiced by men or women) isn’t a bad thing.

 

It is a typical aspect of sexuality in people

The true is that masturbation is a normal behavior that most people engage in at some point in their lives. It's a natural way for individuals to explore their bodies, learn what feels pleasurable, and understand their sexual responses. Both men and women experience sexual urges, and masturbation provides a safe and private outlet for these feelings. Sexuality is a natural part of life, and masturbation is a way of expressing and experiencing that sexuality on one’s own terms. It allows you to connect with your own sexual desires in a private, judgment-free setting. In many cases, masturbation is a way of practicing sexual self-care (especially for those who may not be sexually active with a partner).

 

It offers health advantages

I'll spare you the long list of the benefits of this practice and limit myself to three positive effects of masturbation on health.

Masturbation helps reduce stress and anxiety and it can also contribute to improve body awareness and sexual health. It allows men and women to understand what they find pleasurable, which can be beneficial in intimate relationships. Masturbation can also offer a way to unwind and focus on your own well-being. It’s a personal and private activity that can improve your overall mood and mental health.

 

It can strengthen sexual bonds

It's true that masturbating helps you become more aware of your own body. You can increase your level of sexual satisfaction both by yourself and with a partner by discovering what arouses you through experimenting with various forms of touch and stimulation. Having self-awareness can improve communication and closeness in a partnership or during a paid sex date.

Despite popular belief, masturbating doesn't damage relationships or make a person less interested in their partner. In fact, by making it easier for you to express your preferences and desires, it can improve your sexual experiences.

If you are in a relationship, reciprocal masturbation can be a means for your couple to explore one other's bodies in a non-penetrative way, establishing intimacy and trust.

 

No negative effect on mental health

I have searched for scientific evidence that masturbation leads to mental health problems, such as physical harm, sexual dysfunction or addiction (while excessive masturbation could potentially interfere with daily life or responsibilities, for the vast majority of people, it is not an addiction. Like any behavior, it only becomes problematic if it is compulsive and negatively affects one’s personal or professional life) and I haven’t found anything confirming that statement. There is, however, an impressive body of scientific literature demonstrating the opposite and affirming that masturbation is a safe and common sexual behavior with no inherent risks or long-term negative effects.

Myths frequently assert that guilt, humiliation, or anxiety are brought on by masturbating; however, these emotions are typically the result of cultural taboos or social stigmas rather than the act itself.  These bad emotions are frequently brought on by society pressures and beliefs. Usually, these feelings are reduced by just realizing that masturbating is common.

 

Masturbation in a nutshell

You should keep in mind that masturbating has numerous psychological and physiological advantages and is a normal, healthy aspect of human sexuality. It's a risk-free, healthy approach to discover your body, decompress, and even enhance your sex life. Medical and psychological professionals concur that masturbating is a safe habit that can be beneficial to one's sexual and self-care despite cultural taboos and persistent beliefs. So, no need to worry about that anymore!

 

Janet – The Velvet Rooms

 

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