Wanking and Wellness: The Benefits of Masturbation
Learn how to have the best solo sex.
Masturbation, we all do it and for good reason…
Arguably the ultimate act of self-care, not only does solo play feel incredible but it brings a range of positive health benefits too.
Masturbating is a perfectly normal and enjoyable part of sexuality. In fact, even scientists tell us that rubbing one out is perfectly fine — healthy even. It allows for self-pleasure, self-exploration, and better sexual health, three of our favourite things!
In the past, you might've heard the odd myth flying around about masturbation, designed to invoke shame or suggest that masturbation is wrong. Clearly, this is outdated nonsense and societal views have, thankfully, changed.
In this post, we want to help put the record straight and highlight all the wonderful benefits of indulging in a little ‘me time’.
So here are a few fun facts facts and masturbation techniques for the ultimate menage-a-moi!
Masturbation can increase your sex drive
If you’re finding that your libido is somewhat lacking lately, giving yourself some sexual stimulation solo style could help reinvigorate your sex drive.
Getting into the habit of bringing yourself to climax and experiencing the pleasure and relaxation that comes with it, means you’ll be in good practice for sinking into blissful orgasms with your significant other.
Masturbation is good for your health
It makes you happy. When you have an orgasm, your body releases oxytocin, dopamine and endorphins - the happy hormones! But it's not just that immediate rush that leaves you feeling happy, the mood-lifting effects of an orgasm can last all day! You know how to start your day right now…
It reduces stress and tension. If you’re feeling wound up, a good solo session might be the best tonic! Orgasms also help lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels and the release of oxytocin can help relieve tension in your muscles. Perfect for relaxing your whole body and taking your mind off what’s bothering you, masturbation allows you to focus on the moment and your own wellness.
It helps you sleep. A bit of self-pleasure quiets the mind. Plus, the hormones released during orgasm help your body get into your REM cycles better, resulting in a deeper, more restful sleep.
It can help relieve period pain. Recent studies have found that masturbating can have an impact on reducing pain felt during their period by reducing cramps. Certainly worth a try!
It works your pelvic floor. Our bodies naturally lose muscle tone with age, but regular sex or masturbation helps exercise your pelvic floor muscles which can help prevent incontinence and erectile dysfunction, not to mention heightening sensations during sex.
It's great for your skin. We've all heard of the post-orgasm glow. This is thanks to increased blood flow to the skin as well as inflammation-reducing hormones being released that lead to a more youthful complexion!
Learn about yourself
Indulging in solo play can improve your wider sex life.
Taking the time to learn about your body and what feels good is so important.
Why not try a solo experiment and play around with different variations of stimulation- different angles, speeds and positions? Knowing what feels good and what brings you to orgasm can make you more confident in bed and more open to sharing what you like with a partner, leading to a more fulfilling sex life and increased body confidence.
It makes sense really. When you know what you like, you can tell them where and how to touch you which can really help deepen your connection and enhance your sexual pleasure together.
Top masturbation tips
Set the mood. Just because you’re having sex on your own, doesn’t mean it should be less special. Light some candles, put some music on and slip into some sexy lingerie that makes you feel good.
Let your imagination go wild. Allow your mind to wander and indulge your fantasies. Whether they are about your partner, a crush, or a certain steamy scenario, your own fantasies can be hugely powerful in boosting your arousal.
Perhaps try some extra visual stimulation. Using your imagination can be very sexy, but if it helps, watch some porn, read some erotica or try audio porn to turn up the heat.
Foreplay, foreplay, foreplay. Before you head straight to the sweet spots, take the time to explore different parts of your body and all of its erogenous zones. Gently stimulating your nipples, ears, neck, perineum and inner thighs will build up that sexual tension for more intense orgasms. And you never know, you might find something you really like!
Slather on the lube. A bedside drawer essential as far as we’re concerned, lube makes everything more pleasurable. Whether you’re using toys or just your own fingers, added lubrication and a smoother glide will heighten the sensations.
A few extra tips for penis owners
Vary the speed and strokes. Experiment with different movements, using long twisting strokes from base to tip.
Slow down and speed up. And try moving your hips or thrusting at different speeds.
Be sure to pay some attention to your balls too. Testicles have almost as many nerve endings as the penis, so try cupping them or gently tugging them just before climaxing for added pleasure.
Self-love for vulva owners
Start on the outside and work your way in.
Although it may be tempting to go straight for the spots that you know deliver intense pleasure, try slowing things down a little if you're not in a rush. Using some lube, stroke your labia before moving to your clitoris using side-to-side or circular motions. Vary the pressure and rhythm as you feel your orgasm begin to build. You can add some internal stimulation too, inserting a finger or two into your vagina. Female masturbation doesn't have to focus on clitoral stimulation alone, if you want to take it even further or you find it hard to relax into solo play perhaps try a little mindful masturbation.
Explore anal pleasure
Many people are curious about anal sex but might be too nervous to bring it up with a partner. If this sounds familiar, try experimenting on your own first to see what you like! Most importantly when it comes to backdoor fun, remember, the anus doesn’t self-lubricate, so always use plenty of lube. Start massaging the outside of your anal opening and gently insert your finger inside, switching between circular and in-and-out motions.
Give your hands a break
It goes without saying that we’re big advocates for adding some sex toys to your solo play. Using vibrators, anal beads, prostate massagers or dildos can intensify your orgasms tenfold!
Can you masturbate too much?
If we're honest, yes. But we're talking about chronic masturbation here which is more of an outlet for something else that's probably troubling you.
Consider seeking some advice from a doctor or sex therapist if you find that masturbation is causing you to:
- Miss work or school
- Cancel plans with your partner, friends, or family
- Miss important social events
- Prevent you from your regular daily activities
Masturbation is a healthy, natural and safe way to explore your sexuality, practice self-care and look after your own well-being.
Head over to our Essentials range, grab some lube, and enjoy the pleasure without any guilt or shame!
