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It’s been a stressful year and a half and we all need a some extra self-care. Conveniently, one of the easiest and most satisfying way to give back to yourself is free and easy to do at home. That’s right: masturbation is one of the most satisfying ways to unwind, relax and treat yourself to a quiet (or not so quiet) night in. And even if you’re a seasoned pro at playing a solo sex concerto, there’s always new ways to jazz up your technique and change up your me-time. Plus, May is Masturbation month — so it’s a particularly great time to celebrate.

Not only is masturbation fun, good for you and super convenient, it can actually perk up your sex life all around: “Women who masturbate are more likely to have orgasms during partnered sex, and we believe that this finding is related to an increase in comfort and knowledge with regard to her body,” says Jessica O’Reilly, Ph.D., author of The Little Book of Kink. “By experimenting with different positions, you can discover new pathways to orgasm and stave off the sexual ruts that arise due to repetition and monotony.”

This all totally makes sense when you think about the lasting benefits of getting to know your body and what exactly will get you off in any given situation: You’re way more empowered to take control of your pleasure, whether you’re on your own or with a partner, breaking in a new sex toy or making use of your shower head or something else around the house. You also have the knowledge that you totally can control what makes you feel good and give it to yourself just-because.

Interested in changing up or elevating your solo play? Read on for a few of our favorite toe-curling masturbation positions and give yourself the gift of a good orgasm.

A version of this story was published January 2014.

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