
It's becoming very trendy to take a break from sex. But what does "sexual fasting" really mean? Simply put, it's when you choose not to have sex for a period of time, whether with a partner or through masturbation.
Celibacy, on the other hand, is a long-term, even lifelong, decision. So, while celibacy is like a “lifetime commitment” to not have sex, sexual abstinence is simply a temporary break, for a few days, weeks, or months.
Why do people do it?
Some see it as a way to reflect on what they really want from sex and relationships, or to break habits that may have made their sex life uncomfortable. There are also those who do it for other personal reasons.
But, very important:
There is no scientific evidence that sexual fasting "detoxifies" the body or does magical wonders for your energy or health. In fact, sex, pleasure, and orgasms are very healthy for the body and mind.
Sexologists say that claims that fasting gives you more longevity or energy are simply wrong and often stem from misinformation or ideas that come from certain online movements that promote a total ban on masturbation for unscientific reasons.
If you decide to do a sexual fast, it's important to understand exactly what you're going to stop doing: just sex with a partner? Or also masturbation? Or some other type of activity? This will help you not expect the wrong things from this period.
Also, don't set yourself too strict dates for this "break." If you feel ready to start again, no problem. Your body, your choices!
There are people who use this break to better understand themselves and their desires, and even to see if they feel better outside of traditional sexuality.
However, if you completely stop orgasms, you may lose out on their stress-reducing and sleep-enhancing benefits. And sometimes, stopping for too long can create difficulties like lack of desire, pain during sex, and other issues.
Also, if it's done out of shame or because you think sex is "bad," it can negatively affect your relationship with your body and pleasure.
So, if you choose this for yourself, do it for healthy and conscious reasons. Don't do it just to follow a trend that some influencer said on TikTok!