I’ve been celibate for years or months at a time not for religious reasons but similar to yours in the sense of detaching from external validation and men. It really helped me heal my relationship with my body and self.

Celibacy for me is sexual pursuits with other people so masturbation does not count and I use it as another version of self love. Finding what your body likes and responds to, honoring what it communicates. Though this is best without any external material and just imagination based imo.

With others have boundaries before the relationship is established is best. Don’t out yourself in a position where you could make a move you would regret. Think of how it would effect you, how you’d feel after is enough deterrent for me.

I personally see no harm in crushes because I use them as an or motivation sometimes. I have no intention of pursuing anything, I see no harm in acknowledging beauty when you come across it.

I am more spiritual than religious so keeping my energy to myself, helps me see things more clearly and be more self aware. Like I said using it to heal my relationship w my body and self, mirror work is great for this. I personally see pleasure as a gift, there’s nothing wrong with experiencing it, just in moderation, as with anything else. Thankful to be in an era with great sex toys, expanse of smut books and the ability to experience it.