Its no secret that masturbation has been considered wrong or sinful in times past. However, masturbation has come full circle in modern times and is now wonderfully celebrated, not only amongst men, but increasingly so amongst women too.
Scandals is here to give you the low down on all things masturbation, from its health benefits to age old practices.
Masturbation: good for the body, good for the mind
Masturbation was previously shunned by the medical profession in previous years, with some boffins even saying that masturbation causes deformities. Y'know, hairy palms, blindness, all that nonsense. However, did you know that there are actually health benefits to masturbation!
Physical health benefits
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relieve menstrual cramps and muscle tension
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strengthen muscle tone in your pelvic and anal areas
Mental health benefits
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release sexual tension
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reduce stress
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help you sleep better
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improve your self-esteem and body image
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help treat sexual problems
Not only is masturbation a natural painkiller, it also releases endorphins which help you to feel good mentally.
Yes our ancestors did masturbate too
B.C
From the earliest found records, it shows that the ancient Sumerians had extremely relaxed attitudes towards sex. They widely believed that masturbation enhanced sexual prowess and ability. Masturbation was frequently engaged in by both males and females, they even did it with their partners!
A.D
The ancient Greeks also viewed masturbation as normal and healthy. Masturbation is even referenced in many of their artworks with mythical beings painted masturbating.
18th Century
18th Century views on masturbation were dark and downright dangerous. Many psychologists, doctors and philosophers thought that masturbation started a decent into madness, causing a multitude of mental and physical health problems. British physician Robert James even went as far as to publish an article on the subject, in which he described masturbation as being, "productive of the most deplorable and generally incurable disorders". The only thing mad here is that statement!
The Early 20th Century
The start of the sexual revolution. Alfred Kinsey, (probably one of the most famous sexologists) published the Kinsey Reports, in which outlined masturbation as an instinctive and perfectly natural behaviour for both sexes! Thank you Kinsey! Slowly attitudes were beginning to change. Although sexual advocates faced a lot of opposition.
The 21st Century
Although we've come a long way from the 18th century and all of its sexual oppression, we still have a long way to go. That being said masturbation is now celebrated amongst men and women, we talk about it, buy each other sex toys and even share our fantasies. Masturbation is now a common subject, although some embarrassment and taboo still lingers from the 18th century. We've also now safely proven that masturbation is in fact really REALLY good for us. Take that Mr James!
Now that you've had the low-down on masturbation, why not start implementing those health benefits and get going! Now you even have an excuse to masturbate! Long live the sexual revolution
