Before you think twice about the title, know this —
Masturdating is a thing (and it’s not for the reasons you think).
Life has become too busy for some of us. The routine is pretty much the same: wake up, commute, spend eight hours working, socialize a little, and go to sleep. Sure it’s fun, but eventually, you’ll get tired of it. The routinary nature of everyday life is too fast-paced; you just want to hit the “Pause” button.
When the going gets tough, the tough need not always get going. Sometimes, you need a break.
That’s where masturdating comes in.
The Art of Masturdating
Masturdating is far from the R18 term you might be thinking. This millennial term focuses on a date that involves three people; in your case, it’s me, myself, and I.
Masturdating is the act of taking yourself out on a date. If you’ve got a night to spare and with no one to share, it’s the perfect time to shut the world and do things that you love. It could be anything: watch a movie, eat at your favorite restaurant, or just cozy up to your bed with a good book.
To masturdate, you have to treat yourself and do something that makes you feel special. It feels odd (or even ridiculous) at first, especially when you book a reservation for one. But a self-date every now and then is good for the health.
Love Yourself for the Sake of Yourself
There’s more to masturdating than just getting yourself off in terms of romance cravings. It also offers a number of benefits for your self-worth, mental health, and future relationships.
For starters, dating yourself is one of the best ways to learn more about who you are and the things that bring you joy. Taking the time to know you (or in this case, wooing yourself) gives you a clearer picture of yourself from your point-of-view, not from others. It sends the brain a liberating and powerful message: “I matter.”
For your Boo, Too?
Apart from earning better self-respect, masturdating also paves the way for better relationships.
Drag Queen Mother RuPaul said it herself: If you can’t love yourself, how the hell are you going to love somebody else? Building a stable and loving relationship with yourself establishes a stronger foundation for all of your relationships. When you treat yourself with love and kindness, you will attract people who do the same. No need to settle for people who don’t know your value!
If you’re in a relationship, solo-dating gives you time apart from your significant other. You see yourself outside just the two of you. As a result, your personal security need not depend on your partner alone. You can also carry yourself.
Everyone deserves “Me Time” once in a while — and that includes you. Shut the doors and drapes — take a leaf from Justin Bieber and just love yourself.