How we feel about our bodies shapes almost every part of how we experience the world—including our relationship with pleasure.

Body image isn’t just about what we see in the mirror. It’s about how we feel in our bodies. It's the voice that says “I’m too much” or “not enough,” and it’s the filter through which we navigate intimacy, touch, and sex. For many women and vulva-owners, societal pressures, unrealistic beauty standards, and a history of pleasureless sex education have all contributed to a disconnect between body and self. But here's where masturbation can play a powerful, healing role.

Masturbation as an Act of Self-Acceptance

Solo pleasure can be a deeply embodied act of self-love. When we masturbate, we’re not just seeking orgasm—we’re exploring sensation, curiosity, and connection. It’s a chance to say: this is my body, and I deserve to feel good in it.

Regular self-pleasure has been linked to reduced stress, better sleep, improved mood, and yes—even more confidence. It can shift the way we relate to our bodies, from something to be judged to something to be felt. That means tuning in to what actually feels good, rather than what we think should feel good.

Reclaiming Pleasure in a Body-Shaming Culture

For many of us, our earliest experiences with sex education were silent, shame-laden, or completely devoid of any mention of pleasure—especially for vulva-owners. We weren’t taught that our bodies could be sources of joy, curiosity, or power. Instead, the messages were: cover up, stay safe, don’t ask questions.

Masturbation, then, becomes revolutionary. It’s a way to rewrite those early scripts and reclaim our relationship with our own skin. When we explore touch on our own terms, we begin to understand what feels safe, exciting, grounding. We move from performing pleasure to experiencing it.

Tools That Support the Journey

While we absolutely don’t need anything to explore pleasure, the right tools can deepen the connection. At ILO Wellness, we believe pleasure should be beautiful, intuitive, and safe. Our range of gentle, body-safe vibrators and luxe lubricants are designed to support you in feeling more—more sensation, more relaxation, more you.

ILO’s Egg Vibrator is designed for exploration. With its smooth shape and versatile surface, it’s perfect for discovering new erogenous zones—yes, including the ones you don’t see in anatomy diagrams. It’s a tool for tuning in, not just turning on. Whether you’re tracing along your inner thigh or gently massaging your chest, the Egg encourages full-body pleasure—without performance pressure.

Similarly, ILO’s Balm Lubricant is more than a bedroom basic. Made to melt into the skin, it’s ideal for both solo pleasure and ritualistic body care. You can massage it into your stomach, thighs, or anywhere you want to soften the way you touch yourself. It’s about comfort, nourishment, and creating a space where pleasure feels safe.

These aren’t just sex toys or lubricants—they’re invitations to rewrite your body story, one gentle stroke at a time.

From Awareness to Embodiment

Body image isn’t a switch you flip. It’s a relationship—one that changes and evolves over time. Masturbation offers a way to check in, to come home to yourself, and to build trust in your own sensations. Over time, this practice can transform not just how you feel about your body, but how you move through the world.

You deserve a pleasure practice that honours your body. One that helps you feel more present, more powerful, and more you.

By Kiara Sasha