Solo play, or the act of engaging in sexual activities with oneself, has long been considered a taboo topic in many societies. It has been shrouded in shame, stigma, and misinformation, leading many to view it as a shameful and unhealthy behavior. However, in recent years, there has been a shift in attitudes towards solo play, with more and more people embracing it as a natural and healthy part of human sexuality. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of breaking the taboo surrounding solo play and how embracing it can have positive impacts on our overall well-being.
Firstly, it is important to understand that solo play is a completely normal and natural behavior. In fact, it is estimated that 95% of men and 89% of women have engaged in solo play at some point in their lives (1). It is a form of self-exploration and self-discovery, allowing individuals to better understand their own bodies, desires, and pleasure. By engaging in solo play, individuals can learn about what feels good to them and communicate their needs and preferences to their partners, leading to more satisfying sexual experiences.
Moreover, solo play is a form of self-care and can have numerous physical and mental health benefits. During solo play, the body releases endorphins and oxytocin, which can help reduce stress, anxiety, and improve mood (2). It can also be a great way to relax and unwind after a long day, providing a sense of pleasure and release. Additionally, solo play can also have positive impacts on sexual health. By exploring one’s own body, individuals can become more comfortable with their own sexuality and better understand their sexual boundaries and limits. This can lead to safer and more enjoyable sexual experiences with partners.
Despite the numerous benefits of solo play, it is still often surrounded by stigma and shame. This is largely due to societal and cultural norms that view sex as something that should only be done with a partner and that masturbation is a sign of deviance or a lack of self-control. This stigma can be damaging, especially for individuals who are exploring their own sexuality and may feel ashamed or guilty for engaging in solo play. It is important to break this taboo and have open and honest discussions about solo play, promoting a more positive and accepting attitude towards it.
One way to break the taboo surrounding solo play is by having more open and honest conversations about it. By discussing it openly, we can normalize the topic and reduce the shame and stigma associated with it. This can be done through educational programs and campaigns that aim to provide accurate information about solo play and promote its positive aspects. It is also important for individuals to have open and honest conversations with their partners about their own solo play habits, promoting understanding and acceptance within relationships.
Breaking the Taboo: Embracing Solo Play
Another way to break the taboo is by challenging the negative messages and misinformation surrounding solo play. Many myths and misconceptions exist about solo play, such as it being a sign of sexual dysfunction or addiction. These harmful beliefs can lead to feelings of shame and guilt for individuals who engage in solo play. By educating ourselves and others about the facts and benefits of solo play, we can challenge these harmful beliefs and promote a more positive and accepting attitude towards it.
It is also important for individuals to give themselves permission to engage in solo play without feeling guilty or ashamed. It is a completely natural and healthy behavior, and individuals should not feel guilty for taking care of their own sexual needs and desires. By giving ourselves permission to engage in solo play, we are breaking the taboo and promoting self-love and acceptance.
In conclusion, solo play is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality that should not be shrouded in shame and stigma. By embracing it and breaking the taboo surrounding it, we can promote self-discovery, self-care, and positive sexual health. Let’s continue to have open and honest conversations about solo play and challenge the negative messages and beliefs surrounding it. Embracing solo play can lead to a greater understanding and acceptance of our own sexuality, ultimately contributing to our overall well-being.
Current event: Recently, the state of Virginia became the first state in the US to officially recognize June as “Masturbation Awareness Month” (3). This decision was made in an effort to destigmatize and promote positive attitudes towards solo play. It is a step towards breaking the taboo surrounding solo play and promoting sexual health and self-care.
References:
1. Herbenick, D., Schick, V., Reece, M., Sanders, S. A., Dodge, B., & Fortenberry, J. D. (2010). Sexual behavior in the United States: results from a national probability sample of men and women ages 14-94. The Journal of sexual medicine, 7(s5), 255-265.
2. Self-love: The Benefits of Masturbation. (2019, October 3). Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326900#benefits-of-masturbation.
3. State of Virginia Recognizes June as “Masturbation Awareness Month”. (2021, June 8). PR Newswire. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/state-of-virginia-recognizes-june-as-masturbation-awareness-month-301307526.html.
SUMMARY:
Solo play, or the act of engaging in sexual activities with oneself, has long been considered a taboo topic. However, in recent years, there has been a shift in attitudes towards solo play, with more and more people embracing it as a natural and healthy part of human sexuality. Embracing solo play can lead to self-discovery, self-care, and positive sexual health. To break the taboo surrounding solo play, open and honest conversations, challenging harmful beliefs, and giving ourselves permission to engage in it are necessary. Recently, the state of Virginia recognized June as “Masturbation Awareness Month”, a step towards destigmatizing solo play and promoting self-love and acceptance.