Although many people are critical of masturbation on moral or religious grounds, this solitary sexual practice is surprisingly beneficial for men and women alike. There is no question that people denied other types of sexual relief are perfectly willing to engage in masturbation just to get rid of the tension. But this is not the only good side of masturbation.

Many experts on mental issues say that masturbation is a good way of relieving depression by allowing the individual to reach a higher sense of self-worth. A successful orgasm is one of the best ways to lift somebody's spirits and make that person feel the zest for life that lies in all of us. Sex also tends to drive out negative thoughts, if only for a while.

Still, whatever arguments some people may have against masturbation, it is better to engage in this practice than to allow depression to set in. In certain cases, two persons who may be perfectly matched in interests and preferences, may prove to have very different views on sex. When one of the partners wants a lot of sex, but the other does not, masturbation may be used to satisfy the bigger need without making the less eager partner uncomfortable.

This helps to balance the relationship and unite couples who are sufficiently open-minded to acknowledge and respect their differences. Moreover, frequent masturbation teaches a person to understand its own sexual responses and is a perfect way of exploring one's sexuality. Every bit of experience helps later on and masturbation can be a very good teacher to young and shy people who are nervous about one of the most intimate acts two people can do together.

It's perfectly safe at all ages and, unlike sex, it does not carry the risk of unwanted pregnancies or painful visits to the VD ward. A recent study has also suggested that frequent masturbation in men may help decrease the risk of developing prostate cancer.

While this is not certain, there's a good chance this may prove true. Of course, nobody recommends masturbating in order to prevent cancer, but men who engage frequently in this practice should not feel as if they're doing something wrong because their activity may even help them in their old age.