Boss reveals why she lets her staff have half-hour masturbation break during work hours

A Spanish company has introduced a unique policy aimed at improving the well-being of its employees. In a move that may raise eyebrows, the company now offers staff a half-hour "masturbation break" during their working hours.

This initiative was created by Erika Lust, the founder of an adult entertainment business based in Barcelona.

According to Lust, the break allows workers to relieve stress, and it has proven successful, with the policy becoming a formal part of the company’s operations after a trial period in 2022.

Lust believes that employees benefit from the break both mentally and physically. She explained to The News Movement that "masturbation can help people manage stress, regulate their sleep, and connect with their body and sexual desires, among other advantages."

The company set up a dedicated space known as the "masturbation station," where workers can take their break in privacy. The policy was implemented after observing a noticeable decline in employee energy and performance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The benefits of the policy

Lust's approach has been met with positive responses from staff. Many have shared that they felt "less aggression" and were "more productive" after incorporating the break into their routines.

The initiative also aims to normalize masturbation in the workplace, with Lust acknowledging the connection between sexual well-being and overall health. She compares the policy’s benefits to the old adage, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away," suggesting that the practice can help reduce anxiety and improve focus.

Moreover, Lust emphasizes that stress is one of the most damaging factors in a work environment. By offering this private space for employees to relax and de-stress, she hopes to create a healthier and more efficient atmosphere at work.

"I value my employees, and I know that when they feel good, we do good work," Lust says. The policy reflects her broader mission to promote ethical sexual wellness alongside traditional health initiatives.

Changing attitudes towards work and well-being

As workplace policies evolve, Lust’s initiative reflects a larger trend of companies prioritizing mental health and employee satisfaction. Flexible hours, remote work, and wellness programs are just a few examples of how businesses are adapting to the needs of modern workers.

By introducing this unusual but thoughtful policy, Lust is hoping to push the conversation around sexual well-being further into the spotlight, treating it as an essential aspect of overall mental and physical health.

Featured image credit: Justin Paget / Getty