5 Ways Solo Play Can Support Your Mental Wellbeing

October 16th marks International Love Your Body Day, and here at Bed Nerdz, we believe this shouldn't just represent some trending hashtag for one day. In fact, it's a daily vibe that should be prioritised more than once a year. And one of the most radical ways to do that is by genuinely tuning into you. So, let's start with our fav topic! Solo play (aka masturbation) and yes, we know it gets some of us blushing, but it can be a powerful tool for mental health, self-awareness, joy and of course pleasure.

In honour of International Love Your Body Day, we wanted to share five ways solo play can support your mental wellbeing, how we feel about our bodies and minds, and share some Bed Nerdz goodies that can make the experience even more enjoyable.

Let's get stuck in and explore five reasons you need to touch yourself today, tomorrow and the next day!

1. Release Stress & Boost Mood

When you engage in solo play, your body releases endorphins and oxytocin, which, put simply, are natural "feel-good" chemicals that help reduce stress, soften tension, and lift your mood. It's like hitting your mental "reset" button and giving your body a hit of 'oooo yeah'.

If you need a little pick-me-up, why not ask your partner to take part in a sensual massage that helps you feel good and connected at the same time? You can even use our Melted Dreams Massage Candle (for ambience + sensual massage) as part of your wind-down ritual. Relaxing, dim lighting, seductive scents, and massage = good energy and a good time.

2. Deepen Your Body-Connection & Self-Trust

Solo play gives you space to explore your own desires, sensations, and preferences, without pressure, comparison, or judgment. It's just you, the toy and wherever your mind takes you!

That internal map that you start to become connected to helps you trust yourself more, speak up for your pleasure, and supports you in knowing how to advocate for what feels good, fun, and even leads you to be curious about learning more.

Pro tip: Using a toy that responds to you allows you to explore what feels good at your own pace. We recommended starting with something like the CALI Wand. It's perfect for solo exploration or adding spark to intimate moments with a partner. CALI's sleek, discreet design fits effortlessly into your playtime routine. 

3. Improve Sleep & Relaxation

A satisfying solo session can help you relax physically and mentally. It's not a myth, it truly works! The post-orgasm "afterglow" can lower stress hormones and usher in a calmer state of mind and body.

So, if you're winding down at night, light your Melted Dreams Massage Candle. Maybe pair it with a soothing playlist or your favourite Netflix and chill show, and let your body lead the way. You might find it becomes one of your favourite self-care rituals. 

What toy are you taking to bed tonight?

4. Boost Self-Confidence & Empowerment

Taking charge of your pleasure is a loud act of self-worth and self-care. It's saying: I deserve joy, touch, exploration, and connection, even with myself. That empowerment can ripple into other areas of your life, including confidence in social settings, assertiveness in relationships, and stronger self-esteem in asking for what you want. Knowing you can take control of your pleasure is a gift that keeps giving.

5. Mindfulness, Presence & Emotional Release

Solo play can act as a mini-meditation, let us explain. Focusing on sensations, breath, and internal shifts draws you into your body, out of mental loops, and into a present space. Many of us are on autopilot, getting through our daily tasks, work, and routines. When we tune into our bodies, we reconnect with ourselves and show up in ways that we want, rather than what's expected, to get us through the day.

Additionally, emotions manifest in our bodies, manifesting as tension, sadness, and anticipation. Solo time can become a safe container for releasing those emotional energies, grounded in pleasure rather than anxiety.

And as many experts note, play itself (in any form) is a mental health booster, as it lowers cortisol, prompts creative thinking, and gives your brain a break from overthinking. 

A Few Notes & Friendly Reminders

• Consent, always — with yourself. If something doesn't feel good, stop. There's no pressure to "perform."
• Hygiene matters — clean your toys, use body-safe lubricants, and store them properly.
• Balance & boundaries — solo play is one piece of a healthy life. It doesn't replace professional support, social connection, or therapy when those are needed.
• Normalise exploring — there's no shame in learning, experimenting, and enjoying your body.

Love Your Body!

On International Love Your Body Day, celebrating your body doesn't have to be another thing to add to the list. Sometimes, the quiet, playful moments you give to yourself matter most, so lean into what feels good, not what's expected. Solo play is more than "just pleasure", it's a way to come back to you, a way to feel good in your body and a way to say "hell yeah, I deserve pleasure that feels good!".