Despite the myths, the rumors, and general scare tactics, masturbation is totally normal. It doesn’t harm your health, make you break out or make you a pervert. In fact, masturbation is actually a form of sexual activity that is pleasurable and even healthy. Just think about the facts rather than all the jokes, anecdotes, and other playground nonsense.

• When it comes to sexual activity, masturbation is totally safe. You can’t get pregnant or risk a sexually transmitted infection when you masturbate. There are a few caveats to this — if you have herpes and open sores in your mouth you should first wash your hands after touching your mouth and before touching anything more private. Masturbating with another person can also transmit infection if you exchange fluids.
• In addition to avoiding the risk of STDs, masturbation may also fend off other diseases, including cancer. Men that masturbate may experience a lower risk of prostate cancer, while women may experience fewer urinary tract infections (UTI’s).
• Masturbation can help you relax and destress. Studies have shown that masturbation releases a bunch of hormones and chemicals that are associated with relaxation and stress reduction.
• If you have trouble falling asleep or struggle with insomnia, masturbation can help.
• Going solo can actually improve or enhance your sex life. People that masturbate tend to enjoy busier sex lives. By contrast, people in sexless relationships tend to masturbate less.
• Masturbation can boost your self-confidence. Getting a little self-love here and there makes you feel good, which is always a good look.
• Better understanding your body and learning what you like can also improve your confidence and performance with a partner so that you can teach them what you like.
• Focusing on the moment is rough, which is why many people have trouble meditating or practicing mindfulness. But masturbation is all about being mindful, so you get to put all the focus on you.

Taking time to masturbate could just be another part of healthy lifestyle.

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