Have you been suffering from dating burnout? The trend, masturdating, is here to rescue you. Although the term “masturdating” may lead your mind into the gutter (i.e., a locked room), it actually isn’t sexual at all. Masturdating refers to the act of taking one’s self on a date as a form of self-care. The term was first coined in 2015 during an episode of Late Night with Conan O’Brien. (FYI, I couldn’t find a clip of said show anywhere, so I’ll just leave this here instead. Also, here’s this.)

Masturdating has made a comeback, according to Mirror, and tons of singles are choosing to fly solo every now and then as a way to recharge from dating burnout. This isn’t to say that you should forego dating efforts in favor of becoming exclusive with yourself — quite the contrary.

In my opinion, masturdating is a great way to break up your week and get back to yourself. If you’ve been overwhelmed with bad dates, failed attempts at getting someone to say “yes” to a date, or are just stressed, taking yourself out can be the perfect remedy.

Below, I’ll let you in on some ways you can unwind through MegaDating. I will also borrow some EmLovz dating strategies to prevent burnout in the dating world.

Masturdating Tip #1: Go to a Movie

Don’t you hate it when there’s a movie you’re dying to see but you can’t get any of your friends on board? No worries! Take yourself out to a movie. If you really want to treat yourself, pick a fancy movie theater that serves cool cocktails and eclectic finger foods.

A masturdate calls for more than a popcorn and a soda.

Tip #2: Take a Hike

Hiking can make for a great active date or a solo trip. Getting out in nature allows you an escape from the bustle of everyday life. Being in the elements is also a great way to boost your mood…well…naturally. 

For me, a main purpose of masturdating is being able to enjoy the company of yourself, be kind to yourself, and ultimately improve confidence. When you go for a hike, it’s much easier to reflect and recharge.

Tip #3: Go to the Spa

Yes, men go to the spa too. If the idea of going to a spa sounds emasculating, I challenge you to hold that opinion five minutes into a hot stone massage.

There’s a reason that women spend all that money at spas:

1. Spa services (save for waxes and things of that nature) feel really, really good.
2. It’s a great way to de-stress and escape the world for a minute (or 90).
3. You end up looking better — and when you look better, you feel better.

More and more guys are lining up for manicure/pedicures, facials, and massages. It’s a great way to prevent dating burnout. But it also leaves you looking great and feeling confident for when you’re ready to ask a woman out.

Tip #4: Visit a Museum

If you’re an artsy person, check out a new exhibit at a local museum or simply tour one you haven’t been to. Lots of museums offer free admission, so this is a great cost-free way to shut out the din of the work week with some culture.

Tip #5: Try a New Exercise Class

Like I said, exercise releases endorphins. Masturdating is a great way to try something new without the pressure of engaging with someone else.

Even if you’re not an athlete, look up cool classes to try. If it turns out that you really like the class, you can even use it as a creative date idea going forward.

Another benefit of testing out a workout class via masturdate is that you can fall on your face without embarrassing yourself in front of someone you’re attracted to.

Avoid Dating Burnout

If there’s one thing I’ve learned since signing on as a contributor for EmLovz, it’s that dating actually can be fun.

In this day and age, a lot of dating burnout comes from lack of strategy. People mindlessly swipe on dating apps to no avail. And if you actually get a date, sitting across from a stranger interview-style at a bar or restaurant can seem like a nightmare.

But dating doesn’t have to be agonizing. When it comes to online dating, take a step back and ask yourself the following questions:

• Is my profile in top shape?
• Did I select a good variety of pictures?
• Am I paying attention to my match’s interests and using that in conversation?

These are things to consider and doing so will increase your likelihood of connecting with people who are compatible with you.

As far as actual dates go, I’ve fallen into a rut in the past when it comes to dates. I got so used to the standard “let’s grab a drink” or “let’s get a cup of coffee,” that I didn’t even consider more creative options.

A lot of times dates go badly and feel awkward because — let’s face it — sitting across a table from a virtual stranger with nothing to distract you but booze is awkward. Think about fun things you like to do with your friends. Think about your passions and then take your match’s passions into account. From there, you can craft a great time for the both of you that will reduce awkwardness and increase your chances of making a great connection.

Post-Breakup Masturdating

Personally, I think you should take yourself out and practice self-care regardless of what is happening in your life. But there is also a critical time to use masturdating — following a heartbreak.

As a recovering serial monogamist, I remember the moment I really needed to take a breather to focus on myself. After bouncing back from a few breakups, one hit me really hard. It made me look at dating differently and also showed me I had some