May is masturbation month; six reasons that masturbating is good for you

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“I think it is something that is part of human sexuality and a part of something that perhaps should be taught.” Joycelyn Elders (U.S. Surgeon General)

Wouldn’t you know it; right after Jocelyn Elders gave this address, she was fired for acknowledging that sex education ought to include a discussion of masturbation. Imagine that. Being fired for talking about something that almost everyone has done, or at least are curious about.

Whether we want to admit it or not, many of us enjoy this simple pleasure, regardless of the taboo that has existed for years surrounding this necessary act of self exploration. Most of the taboo’s about masturbation has its roots in historical misconception and misinformation. We now live in a society in which sexual expression is legislated and restricted. This pursuit of pleasure is frequently regarded as selfish and childish. My question to you is, what is selfish and childish about learning your body, and recognizing what makes you feel good?

Masturbation May is now celebrating its 25^th anniversary. Good Vibrations launched it in 1995, right after Surgeon General Dr. Joycelyn Elders was fired. May just happened to work because it is the month that symbolizes sexual awakening, and it makes for an attractive alliteration. Celebrating this month provides a unique opportunity to get people talking about sexual wellness and self-love.

In a time of suppressed personal freedoms, masturbation is a great opportunity to claim and hold onto our sexual and reproductive freedoms that are essential to true well-being. To some, it is a radical act, and to others, it is as natural as taking a bath. In no ways is it an accepted form of sexual activity. In many parts of the world (including Canada and the U.S) children are punished if they are caught masturbating. Parents and guardians have no idea how this affects a persons sexuality for the rest of their lives. For many cultures, heterosexual marriage is the only acceptable form of sexual expression, and masturbation is not realized as an important form of safer sex.

People still feel guilty about it, and this is why they will deny doing so. May is a time for us all to take into consideration that masturbation is the cornerstone to a healthy and well rounded sex life. So, why masturbate? Here are a few great reasons:

• Masturbation is immensely pleasurable, invigorating, rejuvenating and fun
• Masturbation is the ultimate safe sex
• Masturbation is a joyous expression of self-love
• Masturbation offers numerous health benefits including: menstrual cramp relief, stress reduction, endorphin release, stronger pelvic muscles, reduction of prostate gland infection for men, and resistance to yeast infections for women
• Believe or not masturbation is an excellent cardiovascular workout
• Masturbation with a partner can be educational and help build a special bond between a couple

There are many different ways people can express themselves sexually, and masturbation is the most universal and important forms. It is why 25 years later; Masturbation May has gone global, with people celebrating this form of sexual expression all over the world. This month was a way to raise awareness and highlight the importance of masturbation for everyone who engages in it. It is safe. It is healthy. It is pleasurable and it helps people get to know their bodies better.

Quarantine life is masturbation life. It is the perfect sexual activity for social distancing. You can enjoy it alone, with a partner, over video chat, with or without toys. It is an act that is completely under your control. We are nearly at the end, but you do have a few days left to enjoy it. Take some time to visit https://masturbationmonth.com/ and check out their 31 Days of Self Love featuring exclusive stories and advice on practicing mindful masturbation.

Self-love rules!