Monday 23 February 2015

8 Health Benefits of Masturbation Self-love gets a bad rap, but getting sexy with yourself is actually good for you.


Masturbation is the sexual stimulation of one's own genitals for sexual arousal or other sexual pleasure, usually to the point of orgasm
Growing up, many adolescents were told that if we touched ourselves, we were sinners who would burn in the fiery pits of Hell for all of eternity.For centuries, adolescents have been warned that the sin of self-gratification can lead to blindness, impotence, acne, and even furry palms, and in fact, some people still believe that masturbation can cause mental health problems or damage to your genitals. But that is blatantly untrue — getting sexy with yourself is actually good for you. Here, clinical sexologistDr. Tanginika Cuascud shares eight reasons to let go of any shame and embrace your inner cochina:

1. It helps you love yourself more. Knowledge of your own body can be incredibly empowering — and the more you tune in to your mind and body, the happier you'll be in your relationships. Dr. Cuascud suggests that you first get a mirror and try looking at your own genitals. If you're shy, begin in a slow, nonsexual manner and work your way up as you become more comfortable.

2. It can make sex with others better. Some people think that women who use vibrators or other toys will have a hard time orgasming with someone else, but experts say that masturbation is one of the best ways to figure out what you like in bed, and subsequently, how to guide your sexual partners. Do yourself and your partner a favor by carving out some "me" time.
3. It can boost your confidence and body image. It's like the saying goes: Masturbation is sex with a person you love, right? Bust out your gadgets, videos, or do it the old-fashioned way to build up your self-esteem, because, believe it or not, pleasing yourself is an easy way to improve your outlook on life. "You cultivate very good feelings with yourself, and you can transfer that to the rest of the world," "Confidence is the most potent aphrodisiac."
4. It's good for your vagina. While many women already know the benefits of kegels, some don't know that they can get similar benefits from masturbation. Orgasms help keep your pelvic floor strong and healthy, which can prevent urinary incontinence and promote your overall sexual health. Contracting your muscles can also help relieve cramps during your period. 
5. It'll help you sleep better. You know that amazing feeling after sex when all you want to do is roll over and close your eyes?This is attributed  to the flood of endorphins released after you have an orgasm, which promote deeper sleep (and getting enough sleep is really important in your 20s). You can get the same benefit with masturbation. 
6. It's good for your heart. Heart disease is the No 1. killer of women, but fitting in a regular exercise regime is easier said than done. Luckily, self-stimulation can get your blood flowing too. In fact, several studies suggest that women who experience more orgasms, alone or with a partner, are less susceptible to heart disease and type-2 diabetes. 
7. It's safe. Unless you start to feel that masturbating is negatively impacting other aspects of your life (such as relationships with friends or family), it's one of the safest ways to satisfy your sexual needs, so whether you're going through a dry spell or simply want to indulge in some alone time, masturbation is one of the best ways to do that and not have to worry about STDs or pregnancy
8. It reduces stress. You get a natural high when you orgasm and you don't have to rely on another person for this wonderful feeling. Some (though not all) studies suggest it can even help prevent depression. Feeling down? That's the perfect time to show yourself some love. 
Follow Erika on Twitter.

No comments: