I’ve been celibate for 7 years — I don’t even date or masturbate

This year, Alexis Turner celebrated seven years of celibacy, after swearing off sex at the age of 25.

Now 32, her decision to boycott all dating, sex and masturbation has had a ‘profound’ impact on her life.

The only way she’ll break this celibacy pact she’s made with herself is if she meets her future husband, and she says that, so far, her sex-ban hasn’t had any downsides.

‘Celibacy has allowed me to explore my beliefs and values more thoroughly,’ the freelance graphic and web designer from Alabama, USAsaid.

‘It’s been a way to avoid the potential pitfalls and emotional turbulence that can come with intimate relationships.

‘By maintaining this path, I’ve found a unique perspective on what I truly need and want from my connections with others.

‘Currently, I have no plans to break my celibacy pact unless I find myself in a committed relationship that leads to marriage.’

Despite it being her personal choice, Alexis has received a lot of judgement and backlash online, with some branding her decision to be celibate ‘unnatural’ and questioning if she has something ‘wrong’ with her.

This reaction has, on occasion, planted a seed of doubt in the designer’s mind but ultimately, she’s happy she’s stuck with her decision.

She said: ‘I’ve heard comments like, “You must be missing out on a lot”, which can feel dismissive.

‘Sometimes, I get asked “Is something wrong with you?” which makes me feel like my celibacy is seen as a problem or something that needs fixing.

‘Hearing people say that celibacy is unnatural can be hurtful, as it suggests my choice is somehow wrong or out of the ordinary.’

Is hook-up culture over?

Earlier this year, a mass rejection of hook-up culture seemed to be trending on TikTok, Instagram and, well, just about everywhere.

Celibacy became hot and made headlines after Bumble received backlash for it’s series of promotional billboards which poked fun at the lifestyle choice.

The dating app’s ads read: ‘You know full well a vow of celibacy is not the answer,’ while another said: ‘Thou shall not give up dating and become a nun.’

Our favourite Uncut Gems star Julia Fox even weighed in, saying: ‘2.5 years of celibacy and never been better tbh.’

Bumble did issue an apology on TikTok, stating: ‘Our ads referencing celibacy were an attempt to lean into a community frustrated by modern dating, and instead of bringing joy and humour, we unintentionally did the opposite.’

It was the lack of meaningful connections on the apps and on dates that fuelled Alexis’ decision to turn celibate.

‘Despite the effort I put into online dating, I found that the connection I was looking for didn’t always materialise,’ she said.

Alexis also decided to have a hysterectomy as, as she says ‘my focus is more on other aspects of life, and I feel that having children isn’t part of my personal path or goals.’

Despite strangers on the internet being cruel about her lifestyle choice, her friends and family have been very supportive.

‘They respect my decision and often engage in meaningful conversations that reinforce my commitment,’ Alexis added.

‘Their positivity and backing have made my path much more manageable and rewarding.’

She’s also hoping to inspire others to follow the celibacy path if they feel it’s right for them, by sharing her journey on social media.

‘I feel sharing my journey is important for many women and young girls in today’s society, despite it being a taboo topic,’ Alexis explained. ‘It can provide a fresh perspective and validate their own choices.

‘I hope to inspire and support those who might be contemplating a similar path or seeking validation for their decisions.’

One of Alexis’s videos received more than 11,000 views and others shared they were adopting the same lifestyle.

One person wrote: ‘Two years and not even urges or anything, it’s a mind thing, I love the self-control I have.’

Someone else said: ’14 years strong. Have almost given in a few times but then I remember my worth.’

‘It’s so nice seeing other women choosing celibacy. Two years for me as well and I feel so much better mentally, physically and spiritually,’ added another.

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