Masturbation is a healthy and common form of sexual activity. It’s a solo activity that allows us to explore our bodies and our sexuality in the healthiest of ways. However, for some people, any sexual urges can stir up a great deal of anxiety. This in turn can lead to feelings of guilt after masturbation. In this article, we are going to look at how masturbation can affect your mental health. The good news is; the positives far outweigh the negatives in Benefits Of Masturbation!
Why do some people feel anxious before or after masturbation?
Anxiety from masturbation typically stems from guilt. This can be due to spiritual, cultural or religious views which may view masturbation as being ‘dirty’ or sinful. Additionally, masturbation may cause anxiety due to a specific style or feeling of sexual arousal. For example: if a young man finds thoughts or images of other men arousing, this can lead to confusion, guilt, and unresolved sexuality.
If you tend to feel guilty after masturbation, it’s important to understand that despite what others might say, there is nothing dirty or unnatural about masturbation. It is perfectly normal and healthy, as are your desires.
Not only that, but when you masturbate your body releases the following:
- Dopamine
- Oxytocin
- Endorphins
- Testosterone
These hormones and chemicals are linked to better physical health, memory retention, and improved mood in Benefits Of Masturbation.
1. Help to relax
Masturbation can help you relax. It is a normal, safe, and relaxing way to explore your body in private.
2. Release sexual tension
Particularly in men, sexual tension can often become painful. Masturbation is a normal and healthy way of releasing those tensions.
3. Reduce stress
If you are feeling especially stressed with work at the moment, or any other aspect of your life, regular masturbation can be an excellent means of reducing that stress.
4. Improved mood
Dopamine, aka the happiness hormone modulates a brain system called the hippocampus which is responsible for memory retention. When your body releases these hormones via sexual stimulation, your mood will generally improve.
5. Better sleep
As masturbation can help you relax, it is also linked to improved sleeping patterns. If you feel unable to switch off before bed, sometimes masturbation can help your body get ready for sleep.
6. Help you feel pleasure
It’s good to feel good. A little solo play is essential for feeling less stress, an improved mood, and more importantly, sensual gratification.
7. Pain relief
Masturbation that results in orgasm releases endorphins, which have pain killing properties. If you have a head ache, or you are in any form of pain, often masturbation can help reduce your perception of pain.
No more shame
It’s time to let go of any guilt or shame that surrounds masturbation. Understand that it is actually good for you. It’s time to own your sexuality and consider masturbation as part of your healthy self-care routine. You can find a number of different male masturbation toys online which can help you along with the process, whilst making it all the more pleasurable. It’s no different than going for your morning run or drinking a healthy smoothie; it’s all in the name of keeping your mind, body, and soul fit and healthy.