{"id":4367,"date":"2023-05-26T15:00:21","date_gmt":"2023-05-26T14:00:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/?p=4367"},"modified":"2023-06-02T10:30:59","modified_gmt":"2023-06-02T09:30:59","slug":"masturbation-as-self-care","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/masturbation-as-self-care\/","title":{"rendered":"Sexual well-being in sex work: Masturbation as a positive self-care practice"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Do you consider masturbation as a form of self-care?<\/p>\n<p>When we talk about self-care, it&#8217;s easy to think of face masks, binge-watching Netflix, and taking time to journal. But these aren&#8217;t the only ways to release stress and improve our moods. Masturbation is also a vital wellness strategy, and it&#8217;s time to discuss it.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#masturbationandwellbeing\">How can masturbation contribute to sexual well-being for sex workers?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#misconceptionsaboutmasturbation\">Common misconceptions about masturbation<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#prioritisingyourpleasure\">Prioritising your own pleasure and self-care at work<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#howtotalkaboutmasturbation\">How to communicate desires and boundaries surrounding masturbation to clients<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#masturbationbenefits\">Masturbation and its benefits to sexual health and well-being<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#thetakeaway\">The takeaway<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In this blog, we&#8217;re looking at how masturbation can boost your self-care routine and tips for adding it to your schedule.<\/p>\n<p><em>Ready to de-stress? Scroll down to dive in. <\/em><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"masturbationandwellbeing\"><strong>How can masturbation contribute to sexual well-being for sex workers?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Masturbation can help to improve stress levels and sexual well-being for everyone, including sex workers. This positive action is surrounded by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/navigating-stigma-and-discrimination\/\">stigma<\/a>, but it comes with an endless list of physical and mental benefits \u2014 ones that boost self-esteem, and sexual enjoyment, reduce stress, and it can even help you sleep.<\/p>\n<p>Regular masturbation sessions act as a self-care tool, making you feel better and more mindful. Sex experts recommend masturbating regularly to feel its advantages, but you&#8217;ll feel relaxed after just one session. A healthy masturbation habit can improve your well-being tenfold.<\/p>\n<p>Want to start from the beginning? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-masturbate-tips\/\">Learn how to masturbate for women here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"misconceptionsaboutmasturbation\"><strong>Common misconceptions about masturbation<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Though masturbation offers many advantages, it&#8217;s still a very taboo subject. Talking about masturbation is awkward and makes many feel embarrassed. But it&#8217;s time to break the stigma.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Here are some of the common misconceptions that aren&#8217;t true:<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Masturbation leads to decreased sexual satisfaction<\/li>\n<li>Masturbation is only for single people<\/li>\n<li>Only sex addicts masturbate<\/li>\n<li>Masturbation is only for men<\/li>\n<li>Masturbation can reduce fertility<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>All these misconceptions aren&#8217;t true and don&#8217;t have any scientific basis. Sadly, due to the shame around the topic, it isn&#8217;t discussed enough, and many don&#8217;t know the actual positive impacts of masturbating.<\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overcoming the general misconceptions <\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Overcoming the common misconceptions about masturbation is an important step to start enjoying its benefits.<\/p>\n<p>First, it&#8217;s helpful to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/escort-sex-education\/\">educate yourself<\/a> on the facts and science behind masturbation. Countless studies prove masturbation&#8217;s benefits and how it links to well-being. Explore these to learn more about how they can improve your life.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s also helpful to read about others&#8217; experiences with masturbation in online magazines or blogs. More and more influencers and wellness writers are coming forward with opinions to dismantle stereotypes.<\/p>\n<p>You can also work with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/sex-work-friendly-therapists\/\">sex-positive therapist<\/a> or a sex educator to learn more about the truth and to reduce any personal shame you feel.<\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4369\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-1.png\" alt=\"woman in bed holding a vibrator\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-1.png 1080w, https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-1-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-1-600x338.png 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"prioritisingyourpleasure\"><strong>Prioritising your own pleasure and self-care at work<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>For sex workers, sexual well-being crosses between their personal and professional lives. Therefore, prioritising pleasure and self-care in work is essential for anyone in the adult industry.<\/p>\n<p>Alongside practising masturbation for its many benefits, sex workers can start to establish work boundaries. These prioritise pleasure as they draw a line that clients can&#8217;t pass. From certain sex acts to non-contact hours, your boundaries are there to protect your peace.<\/p>\n<p>Regular breaks from work to recharge and rest can also heighten pleasure at work. Working until you&#8217;re<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/overcoming-burnout-as-a-sex-worker\/\"> burnt out <\/a>is a quick way to feel exhausted. Taking time off work allows you to find more pleasure and enjoyment, as you&#8217;re not approaching the job from low energy levels.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Learn more about self-care for sex workers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/self-care-for-sex-workers\/\">here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best strategies for incorporating masturbation into your self-care routine<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Building a personalised self-care routine is a great way to improve work satisfaction and boost your overall well-being. From taking up new hobbies to meditating, self-care encompasses many different aspects \u2014 including masturbation.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re new to masturbation, adding it to your self-care routine might feel challenging. It&#8217;s best to set a specific time in your schedule that&#8217;s 100% dedicated to self-care. Blocking out time lets you completely check out work and enjoy the moment.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s also helpful to practise mindfulness while you masturbate. Focus on the moment and the different sensations. Remember, an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/orgasm-types\/\">orgasm<\/a> is a bonus but not the goal. Enjoy the experience and try new things. You might find a new kink.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t skip post-masturbation care. For example, a warm bath or journalling can help you reflect on the session and collect your thoughts.<\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Navigating shame or guilt surrounding masturbation<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>For some, masturbation is linked to shame and guilt. To navigate these challenging emotions, remind yourself that masturbating is normal, and there are many benefits and science-backed information to prove it.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s also recommended to explore masturbation gradually. If you&#8217;re not experienced, it might not be best to start with a toy. Slow exposure to pleasuring yourself could be a better route to satisfaction. Opt for toys and accessories if you feel drawn to them, not because you &#8220;should&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>Talking with a professional sex therapist or counsellor can help you work through any heavy feelings. Sex-positive therapists create safe spaces for you to discuss your desires and worries.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"howtotalkaboutmasturbation\"><strong>How to communicate desires and boundaries surrounding masturbation to clients<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Sometimes, masturbation can be used within sex work sessions. If you&#8217;re working with a client and want to incorporate masturbation into the session, <em><strong>use these techniques to ensure a positive experience:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ensure all communication is open and clear<\/li>\n<li>Set expectations and boundaries before you start<\/li>\n<li>Ensure both parties give <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/a-z-sexual-consent-in-sex-work\/\">active consent<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Talk and provide feedback throughout the session<\/li>\n<li>Use affirmative language to show what you&#8217;re enjoying<\/li>\n<li>Actively listen to a client&#8217;s desires and boundaries<\/li>\n<li>Have a self-care plan for when you finish<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4368\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-2.png\" alt=\"image of hands holding a grapefruit, concept of masturbation\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-2.png 1080w, https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-2-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-2-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-2-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/masturbation-as-self-care-2-600x338.png 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"masturbationbenefits\"><strong>Masturbation and its benefits to sexual health and well-being<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Masturbation provides us with numerous well-being and sexual <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/surprising-health-benefits-of-sex\/\">health benefits<\/a>. From learning more about our desires to improving sleep and stress levels, it&#8217;s an excellent tool for any self-care toolkit.<\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How masturbation can be a positive aspect of sex work<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Exploring masturbation teaches you what sensations you enjoy. You can use this knowledge to improve your sexual experiences with clients as you have more knowledge and self-awareness about your own desires.<\/p>\n<p>Masturbation can also develop your services and allow you to cater to a broader range of clients. For example, some clients may want to explore <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/mutual-masturbation\/\">mutual masturbation<\/a> or watch someone else masturbate.<\/p>\n<p>Masturbation also allows sex workers to take control of their own pleasure and define their boundaries. Thanks to self-exploration, you&#8217;ll be able to set better boundaries for a more positive experience.<\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ten reasons you should add masturbation to your self-care routine<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Want to know the top benefits? <em><strong>Here are ten reasons masturbation can improve your self-care routine:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Masturbation improves your mood via dopamine and endorphin releases<\/li>\n<li>It can release stress and tension<\/li>\n<li>Masturbation improves sleep quality and the ability to fall asleep<\/li>\n<li>Improves sexual satisfaction and libido<\/li>\n<li>Allows for sexual exploration and discovering new desires<\/li>\n<li>Better pelvic floor muscle tone<\/li>\n<li>Masturbation can relieve menstrual cramps, headaches, and other muscle tensions<\/li>\n<li>Improves body confidence and self-esteem<\/li>\n<li>Regular masturbation has been proven to regulate hormone levels<\/li>\n<li>Helps your practice self-care and kindness to yourself<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2 id=\"thetakeaway\"><strong>The takeaway<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Masturbation is a powerful tool that can empower you to take control of your desires while simultaneously reducing stress, pain, and other issues. This practice has many benefits, but it&#8217;s crucial to work through any misconceptions or guilt before you get started. This way, you&#8217;ll have a more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/positive-aspects-of-working-as-an-escort\/\">positive experience<\/a> that offers advantages throughout your work and personal life.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Do you consider masturbation as a form of self-care? When we talk about self-care, it&#8217;s easy to think of face masks, binge-watching Netflix, and taking time to journal. But these aren&#8217;t the only ways to release stress and improve our moods. Masturbation is also a vital wellness strategy, and it&#8217;s time to discuss it. How [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4370,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":true,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"CBBTypography":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[217,220],"tags":[],"yst_prominent_words":[],"class_list":["post-4367","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-for-sex-workers","category-well-being"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4367","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4367"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4367\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4370"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4367"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4367"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4367"},{"taxonomy":"yst_prominent_words","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vivastreet.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/yst_prominent_words?post=4367"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}