Mindful Masturbation Guide: How to Try Mindful Masturbation

Mindful masturbation is the practice of sexually self-pleasuring while maintaining awareness of your body and feelings. Rather than masturbating on auto-pilot, using sex toys, or watching videos, this practice applies the principles of mindfulness to pleasuring yourself. Practitioners remain present as they explore pleasurable sensations throughout the entire body—from non-sexual body parts to erogenous zones—rather than focusing on achieving orgasm.

Here are some of the benefits of mindful masturbation:

1. 1. A deeper understanding of your body: Taking time to try new masturbation techniques teaches you what feels best. Knowing your preferences also allows you to communicate your desires to your sexual partners, boosting your self-confidence in the bedroom.
2. 2. Increased pleasure: Taking time to get to know the different parts of your body allows you to explore deeper, more lasting feelings of pleasure than you might experience with typical genital masturbation.
3. 3. Improved self-care: Prioritizing your pleasure means taking time for yourself. Practicing regular masturbation is an act of self-care, boosting your mental health and sense of self-love.
4. 4. Reduced stress: Whether or not you experience an orgasm, engaging in pleasure relieves tension in your body and mind and lowers your stress levels. Lowering your stress levels carries health benefits like better sleep and an improved immune response.

Start with these steps for your first mindful masturbation session.

1. 1. Wash your hands. Always wash your hands before any self-pleasure session to minimize the transfer of outside bacteria to any sensitive areas of your body.
2. 2. Remove distractions. As is the case with any meditation practice, the goal of mindful masturbation is to stay present. Remove any screens you may normally use during masturbation from your space.
3. 3. Take your time. The goal of mindful masturbation is to experience pleasure, not to reach orgasm as fast as possible. Take your time exploring sensitive areas of your body other than your genitals. Use your hands to explore yourself, from your legs to your belly to erogenous zones like your neck or nipples.
4. 4. Stay present. Focus on pleasurable sensations throughout your body as you explore it, mentally noting what feels especially good. If your mind wanders, gently return your focus to the feeling of touching yourself.
5. 5. Try new things. If you’re used to sex toys, exploring your own body with your hands may feel novel. Try masturbating in different areas of your home, in front of a mirror, or with your non-dominant hand. Experimenting in this way can help boost your confidence and enlighten you about new things that you like.
   
6. 6. Make it a practice. Practice mindful masturbation on a regular basis to build your skills and knowledge around your pleasure. Over time you will see its benefits, making the act of staying present easier.

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