Celibacy, often misunderstood and stigmatized in society, is a personal decision that holds deep meaning for many individuals. It is the act of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, a lifestyle choice that can vary in duration. Some may choose to practice celibacy for a few months, others for years, and for some, it may become a lifelong commitment. For many, this choice is not driven by religious or societal expectations but by a deep need for personal growth, reflection, and self-preservation.
One individual who has openly shared her journey with celibacy is Janet Mbugua, a former TV personality and mother of two. Through her YouTube channel, “Official Janet Mbugua,” she has candidly discussed her decision to remain celibate for over a year. In her video, she explained that her decision was not about making a statement or following a trend but about taking the time to work on herself. She described this period as a time of self-reflection and making big life decisions, stating, “I have been single, sober, and celibate for over a year. I do not know when I will go back to doing those things. I am taking time to sit on this time.”
For Janet, celibacy has provided much-needed peace and perspective. However, she acknowledged that it has not been an easy journey. Living in a highly sexualized society, where intimacy and relationships are often portrayed as essential aspects of happiness and fulfillment, celibacy can be seen as a radical choice. People often jump to conclusions when they learn someone has chosen this path, as Janet herself experienced. “When you are celibate, people assume there is something wrong with you,” she remarked, emphasizing the judgments and misconceptions that come with such a decision.
Despite the challenges, Janet has found solace in her celibacy. It has given her the space to reconnect with herself, focus on her personal growth, and make better life decisions. It is important to recognize that celibacy is not about deprivation or punishment; rather, it can be a powerful tool for personal empowerment. Janet’s journey highlights that the decision to be celibate can be a conscious choice for self-preservation and emotional healing. It is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and gain clarity about one’s desires, goals, and values.
Furthermore, Janet addressed a common misconception about her celibacy when rumors circulated that she was in a relationship with a younger man. After posting a statement on her social media about maturity not being tied to age, some assumed she was romantically involved with someone younger. Janet clarified that her celibacy was not tied to any relationship, emphasizing that personal decisions should not be overshadowed by public assumptions. “You can be different things, and they may not make sense,” she said, pointing out that people often make judgments based on limited understanding.
Celibacy is a deeply personal decision that can be influenced by various factors, including personal experiences, emotional healing, and spiritual growth. For some, it is a way to reset and reevaluate their needs and desires. The idea of taking time away from romantic and sexual relationships is not always about avoiding intimacy but about cultivating a stronger connection with oneself first. This can lead to greater clarity, better decision-making, and a healthier outlook on relationships in the future.
In a world where relationships and intimacy are often rushed and idealized, practicing celibacy can serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-love and self-care. It provides an opportunity to pause and listen to one’s inner voice, free from external pressures and expectations. While celibacy may not be the right choice for everyone, for those who embark on this journey, it can offer peace, perspective, and a renewed sense of purpose.
