Like most guys I know, straight and gay, I’ve seen my share of porn. So hear me when I say that I have very little opinion against porn, and what little judgment I do have I’m working on releasing (pun totally intended). I’m sure there are studies suggesting that pornography can improve your life, but let’s be honest: When someone is looking to make a point, they’ll make it.
My intention here is not to present a case against porn, nor am I trying to change your mind. However, I will share what I’ve experienced since making the conscious decision to let porn go. The results have been noteworthy, which is why I feel compelled to share. Besides, I traded in my high horse for a Nissan Versa a while ago, so I’m not trying to prove anything to anyone.
10 Ways My Life Changed Without Porn
- My productivity increased. I found that I get way more done without the extra Web surfing.
- I have clearer intimacy with my husband. Saving that “lower chakra” energy for my hubby makes our time together feel more special.
- I’ve stopped mistaking porn stars for celebrities. I have way fewer moments at Starbucks where I’m thinking, “How do I know that guy? Oh, that’s right.” (Note: Perhaps this is where I still have a little judgment, but I feel like porn stars like Cody Cummings have more name recognition than history-making activists like Paul Katami and Jeff Zarillo.)
- I feel better about my body. Life is better now that I’m not comparing my body with porn stars’ bodies.
- I actually feel happier. I understand that a lot of studios require drug testing, but with the rise of amateur content on the Web, it feels like so many of the actors are high. A part of me felt guilty to be contributing to somebody’s drug habit.
- I got some emotional clarity. I got in touch with specific areas in my life that I was avoiding. I discovered that porn can be used as a device of distraction.
- I have more energy. Less porn = fewer naps.
- I don’t have to worry about inconvenient pop-up ads on my computer.
- I’m reading more. I think this can be placed in the “more time with fewer distractions” file.
- I’m happy to be free of the expectation that every sexual encounter should be one of epic, porno proportions.
There’s nothing too profound or prophetic listed here, but I can honestly say that with more time, more energy, and fewer distractions, my life has improved. The purpose of a cleanse is to release toxins from the body to support a renewed state of health. I’m considering this experience a tool that’s supporting me in my intention to live a happy and productive life. I’ve discovered that a life without porn can be a life worth living.
And now, when my husband orders Dominos, we know that the pizza guy is just the pizza guy.
By Jesse Brune
Healthy-living expert; celebrity chef and TV host; co-founder and director, Project Service LA
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