2 Reasons Why Masturbation Is An Underrated Form Of Self-Care

Despite the stigma that surrounds it, 'solo-sex' might be the most practical way to maintain your well-being.

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | June 03, 2024

Cultural, religious and societal norms have long painted masturbation as a shameful or immoral act, leading many individuals to feel guilt or embarrassment about engaging in it. This stigma, especially harsh for women, is deeply rooted in historical misconceptions and misinformation that cast self-pleasure in a negative light.

However, solo-sex is a natural and healthy part of human sexuality and incorporating it into self-care routines can be an empowering practice. Beyond physical pleasure, self-pleasure offers numerous psychological and physical health benefits.

Here are two powerful benefits of engaging in self-pleasure, according to research.

1. It Elicits Positive Emotions In Stressful Times

A 2024 study published in the International Journal of Sexual Health examined women's self-pleasure as a coping tool and found that higher levels of psychological distress were associated with a higher frequency of clitoral self-stimulation. Researchers found that regardless of the mode of stimulation, this was a helpful coping strategy, facilitating positive emotional states such as happiness and relaxation.

"Masturbation is a safe, free and accessible form of sexual activity that does not rely on the availability of or emotional interaction with another person. As a solo activity, it is less likely to evoke concerns about performance or evaluation that may arise during sexual activities with a partner. Instead, women can fully focus on themselves," the researchers write.

This freedom from pressure can be especially beneficial during stressful times when one may already feel overwhelmed by expectations in other areas of their lives. This can also foster a sense of empowerment if a person feels a lack of control over their present circumstances. It serves as a reminder that individuals have agency over their own bodies and can experience pleasure and emotional relief independent of external factors.

Engaging in self-pleasure can also improve mental and physical health by improving one's mood, aiding stress relief, sleep and pain management.

2. It Helps You Connect With Your Body

Self-pleasure can play a vital role in self-discovery and experiencing bodily autonomy. It allows individuals to explore their bodies, learn what brings them pleasure as well as communicate their sexual needs and preferences to their partners. This process fosters a deeper connection with one's body.

Additionally, research shows that being "sexually mindful," which involves non-judgmental awareness and being fully present during sexual experiences, is associated with greater sexual satisfaction and self-esteem. This highlights the importance of slowing down to connect with oneself as well as one's partner.

A 2022 study published in Sexuality & Culture also found that a higher frequency of masturbation is associated with experiencing lower levels of body shame and body guilt as well as enhancing appreciation for one's body. This healing effect on body image can significantly improve mental health.

Importantly, researchers of the 2024 study note that when using self-pleasure as a coping strategy, it is important to reflect on the underlying motive for its use. Actively using it as a self-care tool alongside other emotional coping skills is more beneficial than using it to solely distract oneself in distressing times without addressing one's challenges.

Solo-sex is a natural and beneficial practice that deserves recognition as a valuable self-care tool. By addressing and dismantling the stigma surrounding masturbation, we can pave the way for more informed and accepting societal attitudes towards it. It's time to break the silence, hold honest conversations about sexual health and wellness and appreciate the role of self-pleasure in our well-being.

Curious about your attitudes towards your own sexuality? Try this scale to gain a deeper understanding: Brief Sexual Attitudes Scale

A similar version of this article can also be found on Forbes.com, here, and on PsychologyToday.com, here.