If you didn’t know any better, the title of this article might bewilder you. Is that even possible? you might ask. To be sure, there is a subset of the population that is capable of masturbating–even to climax–without the presence of sexual stimuli. I have heard it likened to an “oil change.” However, the question goes deeper than a mere exchange of fluids or corporal manipulation.
Without telling anyone what to do, here are a few caveats (heads-up/warnings/notices) to keep in mind when thinking about this issue:
1. Masturbating without sexual stimuli can be a gateway to lust.
While this activity is not lust, in itself, it can rapidly devolve into it. You may begin one thing, only to get bored and seek sexual stimuli to keep you going. It may happen in a single setting, or it may progress over time to where you get less and less out of the original activity.
2. Masturbating without sexual stimuli is a waste of time and energy.
In my article on 7 Powerful Benefits Of Quitting Pornography, #1 is an increase in energy: “Sexual activity is energy-intensive. Thinking about porn, watching porn, and climaxing all milk energy from the body.” The same is true of masturbating without sexual stimuli. Upon climax, the body devotes resources to rebuild vital energies. At best, this activity is a waste of time and energy that takes away from other potentially constructive activities.
3. Masturbating without sexual stimuli is a misuse of sexual organs.
The sex act was designed to be relational. Masturbating, with or without sexual stimuli, is a solitary act that has the potential to increase feelings of isolation. How do you feel before and during the act? What about after? If you find yourself experiencing negative emotion after the fact, that may be a good indication that something is out of order.
4. If you are a Christian, masturbating without sexual stimuli may fall under the category of “impurity.”
Galatians 5:19; Ephesians 5:3; Colossians 3:5. I admit, this one may be best to take up with your local pastor. Or pray about it and let the light of conscience be your guide. However, there is a catch-all category in the Bible for miscellaneous acts that are proscribed. The operative term is “impurity,” and it often shows up in a sexual context.
The ability to masturbate (and climax) without sexual stimuli may indicate an overall lack of groundedness. Where high levels of anxiety are present, the body often responds disproportionately to minimal amounts of stimulation. It could be an indication that some soul work (prayer, journaling, meditation)–and body work (diet, exercise, stretching)–may be in order to effect a state of inner calm.
For more, check out Wet Dreams, NoFap, Semen Retention And Sexual Transmutation. Also the complete archive of articles on integrity.
