The body is an amazing and complex structure. Focusing on what the body can do rather than how it looks will give people more confidence. Psychologist and sex counselor Barbara Santini says masturbation is a delightful way to connect bodies with pleasure.
MASTURBATION IS NATURAL PAIN RELIEF
During masturbation and orgasm, the body releases a number of feel-good hormones, including the endorphins dopamine and oxytocin. In particular, endorphins strengthen the part of the brain that controls the pleasure we experience. Endorphins react with receptors in the brain during masturbation/orgasm and can alter the perception of pain.
Internationally renowned sex researcher Dr. Beverley Whipple’s study found a 40% increase in the pain threshold of vaginal self-stimulation.
IS AN EFFECTIVE PELVIC EXERCISE
Masturbation is a good exercise for the pelvic floor as well as helping with pelvic pain. Pelvic floor therapist Dr. Rachel Gelman explains, “The pelvic floor muscles play an important role in sexual function. Making sure they have optimal range of motion and that a person has good control over these muscles is important for orgasm to occur. People often focus on contracting and strengthening these muscles and don’t think about relaxation. But most people have overactive or stiff pelvic floor muscles and need to learn how to relax them,” she explains. Masturbation is a great way to release the tension of these muscle groups leading to better sex and stronger orgasms.
IT REDUCES STRESS
Masturbation can help relieve stress and support mental health in a number of ways. Masturbation activates the hypothalamus and thalamus responsible for pleasure. In doing so, activity in the orbitofrontal cortex, the region of the brain responsible for fear and anxiety, decreases, making you feel happier whether you orgasm or not.
INCREASES SLEEP QUALITY
Masturbating helps produce a hormone called vaso pressin, which can increase sleepiness. It also cuts down on annoying trips to the bathroom during the night. Vasopressin is an antidiuretic and basically helps you urinate less.
IT IS GOOD FOR HEART HEALTH
Masturbation can be a good cardiovascular exercise equivalent to a light exercise session because it can increase your heart rate and positively affect your heart health. One scientific study suggests that masturbation burns about three calories per minute.
IMPROVES SEXUAL LIFE
You can discover that it’s really good for you and you can build a deep relationship with pleasure. The deeper you travel with yourself, the easier it is to travel deeper with others.