Outdoor Masturbation: Exploring Public Self-Pleasure

If the idea of a wank in the woods turns you on, you’re not alone. Outdoor masturbation is a common fantasy that many people actually indulge in. But while masturbating in public can be a huge turn-on, it can also carry risks, as Victoria Blisse explains...
 

If, like me, you've walked past a park bench in broad daylight and seen a girl straddling her boyfriend while kissing, you might have wondered, 'are they actually doing it?'. Likewise, you may have spied coupes down an alley getting up to all sorts. Outdoors sex is clearly a big kink, but what about outdoors masturbation?

Unlike public sex, masturbating outside or outdoors has, in the past, held connotations of being something degrading. Think  'dirty old man': lecherous guys playing with their plonkers in public while perving over unsuspecting women.
 

And while, of course, that still goes on, many of us – of all genders – want to masturbate outside purely for our own gratification, without the desire to intimidate others. Indeed, a Cosmopolitan magazine sex survey from 2013 revealed that a whopping 31% of respondents said they had masturbated outdoors in the past.

Rock hard? Let those exhibitionist tendencies fly

So, with many of us enjoying public masturbation of some sort, it's essential to consider issues around safety and consent. But before turning to that, let's consider why so many of fancy a wank in the woods! 

Outdoor masturbation: 3 reasons we love it

So, what turns us on when it comes to masturbating outside? Well, there are a few possible explanations while playing with yourself outdoors in nature can feel so good:

1. Relaxation

Do you ever find yourself getting hornier in the heat? Do you feel sexier during summer? Being out in the sun, in the middle of a field or a shaded wood will get even the most ardent city lover relaxed and turned-on. Indeed, there is some science behind this. Sunshine is essential for the production of Vitamin D in our bodies, which, in turn, is used to synthesize serotonin, one of the happiness hormones. 

“The sheer thrill of being outdoors where you might be seen or caught masturbating outside can be a mighty aphrodisiac.”

Sunshine also boosts levels of nitric oxide, reducing blood pressure and relaxing us. So, when you’re chilled out, not thinking about mundane stresses, you’re more inclined to think about sex and masturbation. If the sun is warming your skin and your mind is wandering, your hands might soon join in. 

2. Exhibitionism 

The sheer thrill of being outdoors where you might be seen or caught masturbating outside can be a mighty aphrodisiac. You might have someone set up to watch you, or you might like the idea of being caught, possibly by a voyeur. An exhibitionist might want to be naked in nature... and being naked can lead to sexual acts – we all know that!

3. Dendrophilia 

If the thought of wood gives you wood, you might be a dendrophile. This fetish is quite uncommon, but if you enjoy pleasuring yourself in woods or forests, it could be relevant to you. Dendrophilia is a sexual attraction to trees and can have people masturbating among them. This is an ancient fetish, with records of people masturbating in nature as a fertility ritual going back centuries. 

Safety first: be discreete if you are outdoors masturbating

Consent and Outdoor Masturbation

OK, so while outside masturbation might be a hot idea, how do you manage this fantastical feat practically? If others can witness what you're doing, consent is essential for any kind of sexy adventure, even masturbation. Sexing yourself outdoors means there is a real risk of being discovered. And although this can be part of the turn-on, you really need to consent when you pick your spot and not get carried away. 

Try to keep away from: 

• Paths and roads where people are likely to pass by 
• Schools, parks, care homes, etc. You don’t want to be caught masturbating outside by a vulnerable individual 
• Areas overlooked by tall buildings 

Ensure your spot is quiet and hidden. It’s worth spending some time in your chosen location to check it is as discreet as you think before enjoying your wank. These reasons are why woods and forests generally make good places: you can wander deep into the undergrowth without fear of being seen. Plus, you will be able to hear any strangers approaching as they will be crunching on leaves, twigs, etc. 
 

“ If others can witness what you're doing, consent is essential for any kind of sexy adventure, even masturbation.”

However, be careful if you are wandering deep into the undergrowth! Be sure to check out the area thoroughly and avoid anywhere where there are warning signs. For example, you may think masturbating on a cliff edge would be exciting, but keep your distance – common sense prevails. 

Heat of the moment? Warmth makes us want to wank

If you’re going for a trek in unfamiliar areas, be sure to have a way to navigate your way back, and if you’re not a regular rambler or hiker, be realistic about how far you can walk to not get into trouble. Also, be sure to have suitable clothing that you can get in and out of quickly, just in case a member of public approaches you. 
 

MORE LIKE THIS:

• Outdoor Sex: Let's Go Outside!
• Discover the History of Masturbation
• Why Mutual Masturbation is Kinkier Than You Think

Outdoor masturbation and legality 

Check your local laws to find out what is and isn’t allowed where you live. In the UK, indecent exposure is a crime, but it depends on someone seeing and reporting you – hence the importance of keeping away from public areas. However, in the US, any sexual activity in a non-private or public place is technically illegal, but this varies from state to state. It’s essential to know your local laws in advance – then you won’t get caught masturbating outside in a non-fun way!

So, if you want to self-pleasure after enjoying a picnic or want a wank on your country walk, then go for it as long as you keep the RACK (Risk Aware Consensual Kink) rules. Feel the thrill and branch out into something new! •

Victoria Blisse is an erotic author, a sex-positive Reverend and part of Smut.UK who arranges events for curious and kinky people with a literary bent.
 

Love outdoor masturbation? Where do you like to do it? Let us know!


All images shutterstock/Roy photo / shutterstock/se_1982 / shutterstock/andrey_I / shutterstock/Benevolente82