Beating Around the Bush The glories of masturbation Natalie Maltz
"Masturbation is a no-risk sexual activity when done alone, and a very low risk activity when done with a partner."
One of the first ways you will begin to discover your sexuality is through masturbation. Masturbation is a perfectly normal, healthy way to release sexual tension and, as long as it does not interfere with your day-to-day life, there's no harm in doing it as often as you like. It is important to note, however, that you don't HAVE to masturbate. In some places people are still discouraged from masturbating even though this view is not as common as it was in the past. We should not allow ourselves to be consumed by the wave of sexual liberation and force the view that masturbation is normal onto others. Like any other activity, the decision to do it is entirely up to you. Some people just will not have the desire to masturbate and that's OK.
Masturbation is a no-risk sexual activity when done alone, and a very low risk activity when done with a partner. There is absolutely no risk of pregnancy or STI transmission with masturbation. While masturbation is generally considered an exercise for one, it is not uncommon to masturbate with a partner, or in groups.
There is no "wrong" way to masturbate. If it makes you feel good, and doesn't physically harm your body, then whatever you choose to use to help you get yourself off is perfectly fine.
Masturbation is a great way to become acquainted with your body and what makes you feel good sexually. You can experiment with different speeds, pressures, or sensations on different parts of your body to gain a more intimate knowledge of your body. Masturbation can be helpful if you choose to engage in sexual activity with your partner(s). From your knowledge of your sexual likes and dislikes, you can communicate more effectively to your partner(s) those things that make your toes curl. Of course, it can also be thrilling to discover your body in a new way with your partner(s), knowing that you are exploring unknown territory together.
Some people prefer to masturbate with toys; there are a wide variety of toys available that can be used to pleasure different areas of your body. Feel free to explore your bodies with a dildo, vibrator, cockring, or some anal beads. One major benefit of masturbating with toys is that they can hit different spots than you yourself could not – heck, they could hit hot-spots you didn't even know you had! Use some lube to intensify your experience, with or without a toy and don't forget, your mind is your greatest sex toy! Fantasizing about what makes you hot and bothered is a surefire way to heat up any solo-sex session. But don't forget, if you are sharing sex toys to masturbate, use a condom (different condoms for different partners) and/or wash your toy between partners. You can grab some free condoms from the Wellness Centre on campus or ask any sex toy store about toy cleansers and maintenance.
Masturbation is a perfectly healthy exercise, and helps you discover your own body. It also serves as a risk-free way to relieve sexual tension, so long as you're doing it safely and in private. Don't forget: masturbation can be used as a tool for self-exploration, the goal of masturbation need not be to achieve orgasm, although it can help discover the best way for you to do so. Until next time, enjoy exploring!
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