Episode Details

What is masturbation? How does it affect the brain? What does the Bible (not) say about it? What will happen to me if I don't masturbate? In this episode, I'll share insights from neuroscience, the New Testament, and my own story of masturbation. 

I've been researching this topic for the past 13 years...so I have a lot to share! You'll learn why myelination matters (even in masturbation without fantasy). You'll hear how masturbation combined with pornography has increased widespread erectile dysfunction (including in my life). You'll find out what happens if you don't masturbate (hint: you'll be okay). You'll also learn the difference between lustful intent and simply noticing an attractive person (what purity culture didn't teach you). Most importantly, you'll ask better questions and develop a more mature perspective on masturbation!

Come back next week for part 2 of this teaching.

Resources referenced:

• Your Brain Off Porn - podcast episode
• Supernormal Stimuli - educational comic
• How Pornography Harms - book (paid link)
• Porn Withdrawal Survival Guide - free ebook
• Brain Heart World - free documentary series
• C.S. Lewis on Masturbation - excerpt from a letter

Bible verses referenced:

• Matthew 5:27-28
• 1 Thessalonians 4:3-6a
• 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

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