Bridge post to Vice - 3 Reasons Why
Read the article on Vice at https://www.vice.com/en/article/3-reaons-why-you-should-masturbate-before-a-first-date-according-to-a-sexologist/ or the below:
Masturbate Before a First Date: What Sexologists Say
The standard pre-date routine is predictable: four outfit changes, a quick splash of cologne or perfume, and maybe a stiff drink to quiet the fluttering in your stomach. But according to relationship experts and sexologists, there is a far more effective way to dial down anxiety and walk into a date with genuine confidence—and it doesn't involve alcohol.
It turns out that taking care of solo pleasure before walking out the door isn't just a coping mechanism; it is a scientifically backed approach to showing up as your best self.
Here is why sexologists recommend making solo play part of your pre-date ritual.
1. It Recalibrates Your Nervous System
First-date jitters are fueled by a surge of cortisol and adrenaline. That spike in stress is what leads to nervous rambling, over-explaining your job, or laughing two seconds too late at a joke.
During arousal, the brain receives a steady hit of dopamine and endorphins. Following orgasm, the body releases oxytocin and prolactin while cortisol levels plummet. This biochemical shift effectively disarms the fight-or-flight response. Instead of arriving at the venue with heightened tension, your physiological baseline resets, allowing you to walk in calm, collected, and grounded.
2. It Clears Mental Distractions and Builds Presence
Sexual chemistry is a major variable on any first date, but unaddressed sexual tension can easily turn into a mental distraction. When your brain is preoccupied with physical attraction, it becomes harder to engage in meaningful conversation.
Handling that urge beforehand clears the static. When basic sexual tension is off the table, your focus naturally shifts from physical preoccupation to actual connection. You are better equipped to listen attentively, ask engaging questions, and evaluate whether you actually enjoy the person's company.
3. It Prevents Tunnel Vision and Poor Decision-Making
High attraction paired with nervous energy often creates a form of tunnel vision where compatibility gets deprioritized in favor of short-term chemistry. When desire is driving the steering wheel, it is easy to overlook subtle red flags or rush into decisions you might second-guess the next morning.
Going into a date already satisfied removes the sense of urgency. With a clear mind, you can pace the evening intentionally, evaluate real compatibility, and make choices based on genuine mutual interest rather than impulse.
The Takeaway
A great first date requires clarity, presence, and emotional calm. The next time you are preparing for a night out, consider swapping the pre-date cocktail for a moment of intentional self-care—your nervous system (and your date) will thank you.